Improperly Grounded Computer Case....

[Greg Johnson]

I have an odd question.

when I connect my coax cable connection to my TV card there is a large
spark - in fact it shorts out and blows a circuit in the house. I have
reason to think that the case on my computer is not ground.

Has anyone else come across this? This might be because the power
outlet is improperly grounded.

I used to have a different computer connected to this same outlet and
recall touching the case and the vent on my heating duct and feeling a
shock. I also blew a circuit trying to connect a video-out RCA
connection from my VCR to a belkin USB video capture device. I think
that was due to improper grounding as well.

I suspect that the outlet is improperly grounded. Does anyone
know how to test? I have a simple voltage tester (120 or 240 volts) for
outlets but dont recall which way it should like - left to center or
right to center.

TVs and VCR's and computer all work with the cable fine.

Any Ideas?

-- Greg

 

[Phrederick]

Go to the hardware store and get an outlet tester... Plugs in and has three
lights to tell you what is wrong.

Whatever you do, don't use the outlet!

 

[Chris]

Get an electrician in to look at it. Better safe than sorry.

 

[Shep©]

I have an odd question.

when I connect my coax cable connection to my TV card there is a large
spark - in fact it shorts out and blows a circuit in the house. I have
reason to think that the case on my computer is not ground.

Has anyone else come across this? This might be because the power
outlet is improperly grounded.

I used to have a different computer connected to this same outlet and
recall touching the case and the vent on my heating duct and feeling a
shock. I also blew a circuit trying to connect a video-out RCA
connection from my VCR to a belkin USB video capture device. I think
that was due to improper grounding as well.

I suspect that the outlet is improperly grounded. Does anyone
know how to test? I have a simple voltage tester (120 or 240 volts) for
outlets but dont recall which way it should like - left to center or
right to center.

TVs and VCR's and computer all work with the cable fine.

Any Ideas?

-- Greg

I'd suspect your house electrics :O



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[Greg Johnson]

Thanks for the advice (both in reply and by email). Come to find out
the outlet did have a 'hot' ground. However it was not due to miswiring
at the outlet - the ground
wire leading to the outlet is also hot.

So now I get to go on a hunt for the bad connection . First step is
to map out the circuit to see which outlets are on it.

-- Greg

 

[Hank]

Thanks for the advice (both in reply and by email). Come to find out
the outlet did have a 'hot' ground. However it was not due to miswiring
at the outlet - the ground
wire leading to the outlet is also hot.

So now I get to go on a hunt for the bad connection . First step is
to map out the circuit to see which outlets are on it.

-- Greg

Keep your feet dry!!!

Hank

 

[sdeyoreo]

If we don't here make from you, RIP!