2 prong outlets and computer equipment

[Tim C. Howell]

Do 2 prong outlets pose a problem for computers a/d electronic equipment? I have a client that's about to walk away from a house because of the 2 wire system. I suggested asking a qualified electrician. Is there an issue here?
Tim

[mnahrgang]

As far as I know, its the same basic issue of any grounded appliance. If you use an adapter, or upgrade the outlets with GFCI's then the appliance will work, but won't have the same protection through the grounded pin.

[Wayne B. Wilson]

Originally Posted by thowell

Do 2 prong outlets pose a problem for computers a/d electronic equipment? I have a client that's about to walk away from a house because of the 2 wire system. I suggested asking a qualified electrician. Is there an issue here?
Tim

Surge protectors will not work with out a ground thats about the only problem, What i suggest run a dedicated circuit. This is what I write up.

Suspected 2 wire system present meaning there is no ground present which would be expected on this age of a home. However beware that surge protectors will not work without a ground . This would effect appliances like computers, High end TV, Stereo's
I am sure there will some disagree but CYA
It will be between the seller and buyer to decide not your Worry.

[Frank P. Newman]

The answer to the question can be found by plugging in the computer and trying it. Most modern units will likely work ok. However, in the larger scheme of things, whoever owns the house will eventually have to face the need for some fairly costly upgrades (unless the original wiring was done with conduit).

[Wayne B. Wilson]

I also Suggest a whole panel Surge protector to Protect the bigger equipment < they run about 200 Bucks . and mount on the panel.

[Tim C. Howell]

Thanks everyone

[Jim Port]

There would not be a need to upgrade the entire house. A new grounded circuit could be installed where the computer will be located.

Please also read Article 250.114 in the NEC.

[rmaday]

Originally Posted by fnewman

The answer to the question can be found by plugging in the computer and trying it.

How do you plug a 3-prong plug into a 2-prong receptacle?

Originally Posted by thowell

Do 2 prong outlets pose a problem for computers a/d electronic equipment?

[Jeffrey R. Jonas]

You're silly Rick. Everybody knows to remove the third (round) prong from the cord.

[mnahrgang]

Originally Posted by rmaday

How do you plug a 3-prong plug into a 2-prong receptacle?

http://www.asihome.com/ASIshop/produ...oducts_id=2913

I keep one of these in my computer bag for doing reports in older homes. The computer isn't protected, but it works.

[arook]

Plugging a 3 prong plug for a computer into a 2 prong outlet can void the warranty on the computer. Same is true for TV's with 3 prong plug, Microwaves, etc.

If a computer, TV, Microwave, etc. has a 3 prong plug, the manufacturer wants it plugged into a 3 prong grounded outlet.

So I would NOT plug a 3 prong plug into an ungrounded outlet.

[rmaday]

Originally Posted by mnahrgang

http://www.asihome.com/ASIshop/produ...oducts_id=2913

I keep one of these in my computer bag for doing reports in older homes. The computer isn't protected, but it works.

Would you recommend your clients use those for their high dollar electronics (or any appliance that had a 3-prong plug)?

[Jae Williams]

Originally Posted by jjonas

You're silly Rick. Everybody knows to remove the third (round) prong from the cord.

Uh...Jeffrey......there are some folks reading these threads that..ah...well, you know...maybe you shouldn't say things like that.

[Jeffrey R. Jonas]

Originally Posted by jwilliams4

Uh...Jeffrey......there are some folks reading these threads that..ah...well, you know...maybe you shouldn't say things like that.

Yes, you're right, my bad... guess I'll have to go spend $0.29 on one of those adapter thingy's. Sorry for the poor advice everyone!

[mnahrgang]

Originally Posted by rmaday

Would you recommend your clients use those for their high dollar electronics (or any appliance that had a 3-prong plug)?

\

Nope... I tell them about running a ground wire, re-wiring with 3 wire, and GFCI as options. I use the the adapter with my laptop to get a job done. I know it's a risk, and I understand the possible consequences. It's a risk I'm willing to take every now and then to get the job done.