GFIC with no ground / Computer Safe?

[tony-a]

We have a customer that wants a three prong outlet installed for his computer. Currently he has a two wire system at this location. Does a GFIC provide adequate protection for his computer without a ground.

Thanks,
Tony

 

[Ed MacLaren]

Re: GFIC with no ground / Computer Safe?

A GFCI is designed to protect people from shock.

He will need the equipment grounding conductor (three-prong outlet) to enable the use of TVSS (surge suppression), which is what the computer really needs.

I recommend TVSS on the data/cable/phone connection, as well as the power supply connection.

Ed

[ April 01, 2004, 12:02 PM: Message edited by: Ed MacLaren ]

 

[racraft]

Re: GFIC with no ground / Computer Safe?

He also needs a good ground so that communicatiojn between certain types of equipment will work properly. Some equipment uses the grtound as a reference for the system power supply. It's not a good idea if one piece of equipment has five volts that is different than the five volts in a connected piece of equipment.

 

[ryan_618]

Re: GFIC with no ground / Computer Safe?

250.114(3)b

I'm afraid that a computer is "information technology equipment" and therefore is required to be grounded. Sorry


Edited to correct code reference.

[ April 01, 2004, 01:06 PM: Message edited by: ryan_618 ]