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1 basic question

hitech0101

Sep 30, 2013
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1.When i try to plug in connector of some appliances in reverse to the power outlet with 2 pins sometimes it works sometimes it does not since it is AC the polarity reverses any ways so why does it not work.

Thanks for any help.
 

shrtrnd

Jan 15, 2010
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In any power outlet, there is a 'Hot' wire that carries the line voltage, and a "Neutral',
wire that completes the circuit.
The plugs for most appliances (in th U.S.) nowaday have one tab larger than the other tab that
you plug into the wall, effectively 'polarizing' the hot from the neutral line for the safety
of the user. Some devices use the chassis as part of the 'neutral' side of the input
power, and the intent is to try to help isolate that 'hot' wire input line from the 'neutral' one.
 

hitech0101

Sep 30, 2013
4
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Sep 30, 2013
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Thanks for answering. Now in alternating current the polarity reverses at a frequency so does the neutral also delivers the voltage when the polarity changes. please bear with me i am a bit confused.
Also i believe the power supply to the appliance has a rectifier which delivers voltage in both the cycles so if i have a plug with both tabs equal will it work when i connect the plug in reverse.
 

BobK

Jan 5, 2010
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It will work, but you will not have the same protection from electrical shock.

IXP
 

hitech0101

Sep 30, 2013
4
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Sep 30, 2013
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Thanks. But can all appliances work i tried connecting some did some did not work.

Also can you please tell a little more about not having the same electrical protection.
Thank You.
 
Last edited:

shrtrnd

Jan 15, 2010
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I think it would help if you tell us where you're at, so somebody with the same type
of electrical grid can give you specifics on your problem.
Failing that, the 'works', 'doesn't work' reasoning may very well be in what exactly the
'applicances' are that you're trying to energize.
I am half-suspecting though, that maybe you have a wiring problem in your power outlets.
(But we're all guessing here, right now with the info supplied)
 

BobK

Jan 5, 2010
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A two prong device should not be able to tell the difference between hot and neutral. If it can, it has a ground fault.

Bob
 

hitech0101

Sep 30, 2013
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Sep 30, 2013
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Thanks for the reply guys i am based out of india we have 240V 50Hz at homes here.
thanks for the help.
 

Rleo6965

Jan 22, 2012
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Jan 22, 2012
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Don't mechanically defeat the plug or ac outlet. It's for your protection.
 
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