Unconnected Drain Wires ?

I guess I stand corrected. I've seen shielding drain wires on interconnects, mostly phono interconnects, and some speaker cables, but I've never seen a shield drain wire on a power cord. Live and learn.

Thanks,
John

The Belden 19364 cable which is used in the DIY Bob Crump designed 'Asylum' power cord has hot, neutral and ground wires, plus a metal foil shield and a separate drain wire.

Disconnected drain wire is not a safety hazard but it is not a good idea as the now floating shield will act like an antenna. If you are using a shield design always connect the drain at the wall side only.

.............. but it is not a good idea as the now floating shield will act like an antenna.If you are using a shield design always connect the drain at the wall side only.
03-11-09: Cpk

Cpk, I use to think the same way.... But how do yo explain the two Shunyata power cables I spoke of in my above post?

Hi Jea48,

Since that is not my company I luckily don't have to explain it ;-), maybe they like the radio stations in Poulsbo, WA? I have heard before that that is how those lower end shunyatas are configured but I was unable to find that actually spec'd anywhere, maybe I am looking in the wrong place. Perhaps in certain system/situations an unconnected shield sounds better but you always run the risk of it acting like an antenna. In general connecting the drain to the wall will give you the best sound on a shielded cord in the vast majority of system.