2. cables
  3. 1310119673

Using a shore power isolation transformer at home?

Can a shore 1:1 power isolation transformer, rated 120V/60Hz and sufficiently powerful, be used in order to make a (dedicated) AC line at home cleaner (reducing neighbor's noises)?

Is there anything special I shall take into account (as opposed to installing a "home-oriented" isolation transformer)?

If I do not want the output to be balanced (would be pointless or even harmful, as I have a servo-operated variac between the receptacle and my tube amp), what is the recommended way to earth the isolation transformer?

Thanks!
meisterfloh
4est
507 posts
 
They really aren't the same thing exactly, but it might help, just to a (much) lesser extent.
meisterfloh OP
15 posts
 
Why are they not the same, from the electrical point of view?
4est
507 posts
 
Ultra/extreme isolation transformers are built to specifically reject high frequencies (noise) from passing through too.
meisterfloh OP
15 posts
 
Thanks!
ngjockey
1,042 posts
 
I've looked at them a couple times but have never purchased. Remember one brand that advertised a 3.6 KVA unit at nearly half the weight of their 3.8. Never been quite sure if they are shielded (more noise rejection) and the plastic enclosure would retain more heat, although not significantly compared to a potted unit. More importantly, they've always been more expensive.

Transformers must be grounded continuously. Input, output and shield to chasis. Usually center-tapped secondaries to ground in balanced configuration as well.
More to discover