AT power supplies

[TandyMan100]

See the poll above.

I just got a computer (two, actually, plus a PIII) with an AT power supply for $5 at a garage sale. I kept one (486 or an early Pentium) to tinker with, and am having a time trying to not get shocked.

The AT form-factor power supply has a switch that directly interrupts the mains power. This can lead to shocks, and short-circuits if the switch is hooked up wrong.

 

[cosam]

I take it you're not getting zapped by mains/line voltage? I've not really been shocked by any power supplies, but I've gotten a bit of a tingle from some equipment when things weren't properly grounded.

 

[linuxlove]

i always make sure to discharge any leftover voltage left in PSU's beefore working with them. For ATX-type, i unplug and hold the power button in. For AT-type, i unplug and put a screwdriver inbetween the ground an one of thw prongs to the side. So no, i've never been zapped by a PSU.

 

[Vlad]

Can't say I've been shocked but like Cosam I've gotten a a good tingle from poorly grounded equipment.

 

[cosam]

Can't say I've been shocked but like Cosam I've gotten a a good tingle from poorly grounded equipment.

I had a good one recently when hooking up serial ports between a well grounded PDP-11 and a not-so-well grounded modern PC. Got a bit of a buzz off of the metal shell of a DB25 connector. Not serious, but enough to let you know something's not right! The problem in these parts is that most household power outlets just don't have an earth connection. I much prefer the UK system with fused three-pin plugs everywhere.