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    65DegN's Avatar
    65DegN Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Dec 12, 2008, 10:01 PM
    Connecting two 4 outlet boxes
    I want to connect two 4 outlet metal boxes together so I can have 6 outlets and a switch all in one unit. How are they physically connected?
    What is code for this arrangement?
    stanfortyman's Avatar
    stanfortyman Posts: 5,598, Reputation: 279
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    #2

    Dec 12, 2008, 10:08 PM
    If you are talking about gem boxes the sides are removed and the boxes ganged together.

    What codes specifically are you referring to? There are dozens that would apply to a task like this.
    donf's Avatar
    donf Posts: 5,679, Reputation: 582
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    #3

    Dec 13, 2008, 09:20 AM

    What is the switch going to be used for, control of the four receptacles?

    Are all of these receptacles and switch powered by the same source?

    Why would you cluster four receptacles so close together?

    What is your plan here?
    65DegN's Avatar
    65DegN Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #4

    Dec 13, 2008, 05:32 PM

    Thanks for the response, I need 6 outlets for my computer, DSL modem, printer, monitor and small set of powered speakers.
    I have a 20A switch to control all six 20A rated receptacles. Breaker is 20A.
    The total current draw by these items will be less than ~3 A.
    stanfortyman's Avatar
    stanfortyman Posts: 5,598, Reputation: 279
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    #5

    Dec 13, 2008, 05:46 PM
    That is a fine idea, but I like a high quality surge suppressor strip or UPS myself. Either one has a built-in switch and will protect your equipment.
    donf's Avatar
    donf Posts: 5,679, Reputation: 582
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    #6

    Dec 13, 2008, 06:08 PM
    Before investing with in a surge protector, find out if the manufactures of your computer support connecting their equipment to them.

    Surge suppressors have been known to cause all manner of computer problems.

    Also, most power supplies for this equipment are made to switch off at approximately 132Vac on the high side and 108 Vac on the low side.
    stanfortyman's Avatar
    stanfortyman Posts: 5,598, Reputation: 279
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    #7

    Dec 13, 2008, 06:43 PM
    Quote Originally Posted by donf View Post
    Before investing with in a surge protector, find out if the manufactures of you computer support connecting their equipment to them

    Surge suppressors have been known to cause all manner of computer problems.
    Don, I have never ever heard of this.
    Can you describe some of these problems? I mean, UPS's are designed to work with computers. And most high-end strips have phone, cable, even network protection ports.

    I am very curious as to what you have heard/read. :confused:
    65DegN's Avatar
    65DegN Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #8

    Dec 13, 2008, 08:28 PM

    We don't have to be concerned about power fluctuations since we are off the grid and get power from on an Outback Inverter which is very stable.
    donf's Avatar
    donf Posts: 5,679, Reputation: 582
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    #9

    Dec 14, 2008, 06:49 AM
    Stan,

    Most common problems were related to white noise infiltrating the input to the power supply. Other problems related to clipping of the high end of the signal and shutting down, which would make the PC shut down. Since the PC is last on the rope, we would get the calls for equipment shut downs.

    From past experience as a field tech for IBM (14 years), servicing IBM PCs. Also, 21 years as technical support for both customer and technician customer support on Laser printers and assorted other misc. connected equipment.

    However, I have now been away from that stuff for a little over three years because of retirement.
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