17 replies to this topic

[matto]

Hey all. The outlets in my room are not grounded, and I want to eventually get a computer up and running in there. Do you think that it is dangerous to do so, and if so, how dangerous is it? Are we talking computer-dying dangerous, electrocuting myself dangerous, or some other kind of dangerous? Thanks, folks.

[FirefoxRocks]

Erm...I recommend you get grounded outlets for your computer.
This is because most power bars/surge protectors need a grounded plug to plug into. If you are not using a surge protector, you are in big trouble

Grounding safely delivers electricity to the ground in case of failure. This is a good feature to have in case something weird happens (which can range from: vehicle hitting utility pole, Hydro One (or whatever your power company is) messes up, storms, bad weather causing lines to fall/snap, emergency power outages, etc). Without grounding, that electricity can act weirdly dangerous, causing the entire wall to burn down.

Remember, don't be complacent!

I'll edit if I find something else new.

Edited by FirefoxRocks, 03 June 2006 - 02:10 PM.

[Thorned Rose]

Ahhh.. only if you don't mind your computer blowing up and setting fire to your house if there's a power surge (as happens commonly during lightning storms)

[matto]

Yeah but I'm in Frisco, and there's like no lightning storms here.

Plus, this would be assuming that I would be able to get an adapter or something to plug the surge protector into an outlet. I'd still use a surge protector.

[Thorned Rose]

A lightning storm is just one cause, there are lots, like arcing in high winds, vehicles hitting power poles, the power company screwing with things etc. Surge protectors will probably need a ground as well though I'm not 100% on that as different brands use different ways to protect electronics. A surge protector still may not protect you from getting a lethal zap. Is the whole house not grounded? Cause if not, that is extremely dangerous....

[JC05]

I would say get grounded and/or surge protection. If that baby gets a surge or something happens you could fry your computer and/or possibly burn your house down. And that would be bad. Do definantlly get a surge strip and if you can ground your room.

[matto]

Yeah, most of the house is grounded.

But my room isn't... Whether or not there is a grounded outlet, I will use a surge protector.

I've just spent some time googling, without many results. Maybe I'm just retarded, but would any of you know aproximately how much it would cost to ground 1 outlet in an already grounded-house?

[Thorned Rose]

Sorry, can't help you there unfortunately as I am in New Zealand with different currency, prices and compliance laws. I hope you problem is resolved though (and that your computer doesn't bloiw up )

[Magic1492]

Yeah, I wouldn't suggest doing that AT ALL. If there is a power surge and there is no grounding or surge protector, you computer could fry, or your house could set on fire.

[jibnet]

Hey no need for grounding. I have been using my computer without grounding for more than 8 years now and nothing has happened till now. Its safe. I dont run even a single appliance in my house with ground. Its works without ground too