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View Full Version : Why is USA 60 Hz and China, Europe 50 Hz?


Robert Gift
Apr 17, 2010, 11:38 PM
Does 50 Hz transmit over longer distances better than 60 Hz and electrical systems developed later make use of that knowledge?

Thank you,

Robert

KISS
Apr 18, 2010, 12:18 AM
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Utility_frequency

Robert Gift
Apr 18, 2010, 03:01 AM
Thanks, KISS.
Unfortunately "... with no technical reason to prefer one over the other.. .

KISS
Apr 18, 2010, 03:32 AM
Well, the higher the frequency the lower the amount of iron. That's why aircraft systems are 400 Hz.

Frequency generators were largely mechanical. Think the old vibrators for car radios. Basically a vibrating relay.

I wouldn't be surprised that the metric system that something to do with it. Note that NTSC WAS based on exactly 60 Hz and I believe e the PAL standard is based on 50 Hz.

Japan has a 100 VAC system is some parts.