Wiring an Isolation Transformer


I found a pristine, never been used, Topaz (Square D Company) 91018-31 1.8 KVA Ultra Isolator Line Noise Suppressor for $40. Other markings include .0005pF, 50/60 Hz, 120/240, Indoor Type 1, Enclosure Class 1-80 Insulation. However, it has no receptacle or chord.

My first question to the forum, is how to wire it? Could I just take a short extension cord, cut in half, wire the male end to the output side and the female end to the input side? Should I use bare wire under the screw terminals, or should I crimp/solder on spades? What wires go on what screw terminals? Some suggest balanced is the way to go. But some suggest this cuts the power in half, some suggest it doesn’t. Here is an example I found of balanced wiring:

Input:
Neutral (white) to H1
Hot (black) to H4
Ground to chassis

Output:
Hot 1 (white) to X1
Hot 2 (black) to X4
X2/X3 center tap connected to chassis ground and outlet ground.

Is this all there is to it? I am a complete newb when it comes to electrical work. Is this something I can do myself, or should I hire an electrician? Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
cpalcott
So does the following seem like a practical approach? Will this get me balanced isolation? Are their any safety concerns with this setup? Can I just use a good extension cord, cut in half, and wired in the manner described below?

Input:
Neutral (white) to H1
Hot (black) to H4
Ground to chassis
Jumper H2 to H3
Add appropriate inline Fuse/Holder

Output:
Hot 1 (white) to X1
Hot 2 (black) to X4
X2/X3 center tap connected to chassis ground and outlet ground.
LOL

Haven't worked on a Topaz 120/240, but that looks right. Check it with a meter. You can get GFCI cords.
Today I had the unit wired as described above. The electrician checked it with a multi-meter and got stable correct voltage. Just for giggles, I decided to hook up one of those cheap Home Depot plug-in testers to the unit, and it is showing an open ground. Is this a misread from the tester or is there something wrong with the wiring? Any help?
Ok, I heard fromn the electrician. I now undertstand the open ground reading was expected behavior. My only remaining question is, how many watts can I safely put on a 1.8 KVA iso transformer? I had it wired for balanced, so I am assuming that knocks the rating down to .9 KVA which would equal 900 va/watts, correct. Cut that in half to allow sufficient headroom would equal 450va/watts to work with. Is my math correct?
Math is correct. 80% would be 720W.

Apple TV - reports from 20 to 48W
DIP - negligible 6W

Vide switcher/Tivo ???
My HD tuner/PVR is rated for 4A max (480W) and it can get warm.

Pre/DAC ???
examples: Plinius M8 - 20W, ARC LS17 - 50W, SFL2 -135W

Putting everything on a single isolation xformer defeats some of the purpose, don't you think? Particularly if you're mixing digital with analog or SMPS with linear power supplies.

How is the xformer for noise and heat? Shouldn't be uncomfortable keep your hand on.