Alex van Denzel wrote:
> Charles T. Smith wrote:
>
>> I measure 101 volts AC between my Sun Blade and my PC on the serial
>> connector - who's at fault, does anybody have any ideas?
>
> > (it doesn't feel very nice to get between them)
>
> I assume you found out the hard way, so the potential would be between
> the frame grounds of the two machines. Then, using a volt meter, you
> measured 101 volts AC.
>
> Normally this is reasonably harmless. It is usually because of a "ground
> loop", where the cable length between the one serial connector through
> the mains ground of the one computer to the mains ground of the other
> computer, to the serial connector is long enough to pick up a buzz from
> the near-lying live power lines, through induction.

If the two frames are connected with a DC connection to a common point
(it should be the earth), then there is no way to get 101 V between
them. Voltages induced by ground loops will be very small - sufficient
to causes a buzz in audio systems, but not to be felt by hand.

If there is 101 V which can be felt by hand, then the situation need
sorting out.
--
Dave (from the UK)

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