OT - Can we talk about power ?

Stonefield wrote on 2/19/2006, 9:41 AM

My editing setup is in my small apartment. I've got 3 computers running on one wall both sharing two outlet. ( a few powerbars )
With 3 computers, 5 monitors, a TV, assorted amps, dvd player, powered speakers, A/D converter, lamps, etc.....how do you know how much you can draw out of just two outlets ?

I'm the farthest thing from an electrician so I sometimes worry about stacking powerbar on top of powerbar. With a couple new purchases, I "Need more Power" and hate plugging in and unplugging things all the time.

Is there a way to gage all this stuff that's plugged in ?

Comments

JJKizak wrote on 2/19/2006, 9:50 AM

Not to worry, I hope. My three computers draw about 6 amps with tons of stuff. Your circuit is probably about a 15 amp job. However, you will know for sure when the breaker trips. I have a dedicated 30 amp feed on mine. CRT monitors and big VCRs draw the most.
JJK

Spot|DSE wrote on 2/19/2006, 10:00 AM

You can have someone come in and measure your draw. But unless you've got big motors (Beta machines and the like) or CRT monitors, or a monster analog mixer...you likely don't have to worry. Motors and big transformers eat power like candy; computers, flatpanels, small mixers, anythign that uses a wall-wart doesn't. You might consider a power distributor like the small Furman boxes, they're pretty handy, provide multiple and protected outlets, and provide clean power. They won't lessen the draw, just smooth it out, that's all.

busterkeaton wrote on 2/19/2006, 10:20 AM

15 amps is pretty much the standard household circuit. Circuits that have things like refrigerators and air conditioners may be 20 amp.

If you don't know what your circuit it, it's probably 15.

epirb wrote on 2/19/2006, 10:22 AM

And if you want to get really technical, and boring....
add up the wattage on each piece of equipt, (usually written in ultra small letters so ya might want to get a magnifying glass.)
then devide the total watts by the voltage(115) = amp total.
Most outlets are 15-20 amp rated by breaker but tht might be numerous outlets on one circuit.(which is actually determined by the size conductor/wiring used on that circuit.

Stonefield wrote on 2/19/2006, 10:23 AM

Well I DO have 5 CRT monitors going. But, I'll ask my techie who's coming over today. I'll buy a couple more power bars and go from there.

I just don't wanna be a Clark Griswald and have this massive collection of extension cords making smoke come from the wall sockets. Very hard to enjoy editing when the computer beside you is currently on fire.Although the heat would be nice and cozy.

epirb wrote on 2/19/2006, 10:31 AM

llet me know when your pluggin allthis stuff in? Im bringin the marshmellows : ).....if your realy concerned you can allway get one of these:
http://www.powermeterstore.com/plug/wattsup.php

but I agree I think you should be fine.
I actually use a UPS on my sensitive stuff, it will tell me if I am overloading it.

GenJerDan wrote on 2/19/2006, 10:56 AM

Grab ahold of the power cords. Are they warm?

If Yes, Uh-oh.

If No....chances are you are ok.

But that's kinda like home pregnancy tests. They're accurate if they say you ARE pregnant...but you still might be, even if they say No.

TheHappyFriar wrote on 2/19/2006, 1:57 PM

You should check & see what's on that line. 15 amps is for that entire circuit. The fridge, stove, lights, etc. can all be on that line.

If it were me I'd space them out a little, just to be safe. You could plug a vacume in & POOF! something explodes. :(