IEC switch. SPST or DPST?

[warpie]

What's the best switch to add for a power on/off switch?

I've seen some diagrams like http://sound.westhost.com/psu-wiring.htm or http://myweb.tiscali.co.uk/nuukspot/decdun/gainclone_psu.html

where a DPST switch is used for connecting/disconnecting both the Earth and Live.
However, from what I remember in my gssl I used a SPST.

Which is a better/safer solution?

thanks
w.

 

[rodabod]

DPST and cut live and neutral.

 

[warpie]

ok thanks  rodabod,

Does this also means is dangerous to use a SPST?
Should I change my gssl's power switch as well?
I'm pretty sure though that I found the schematic with the SPST somewhere in the gssl threat..

 

[rodabod]

The laws vary in different countries, and so do the wiring regulations. This makes the subject a bit tricky.

Personally, I just go for the safest option. Disconnecting the neutral too makes the unit marginally safer, so for a few extra pence, I usually go that route. It makes a difference if you think someone else will ever use the unit.

 

[warpie]

I'll definitely go for DPST  from now on.
I'm just wondering if I can leave the gssl with the SPST.
I think I will leave it for now, but anyway, yes it makes a lot of sense everything you said.
They are all personal projects.

thanks again!
w. 

 

[Andy Peters]

What's the best switch to add for a power on/off switch?

I've seen some diagrams like http://sound.westhost.com/psu-wiring.htm or http://myweb.tiscali.co.uk/nuukspot/decdun/gainclone_psu.html

where a DPST switch is used for connecting/disconnecting both the Earth and Live.
However, from what I remember in my gssl I used a SPST.

Which is a better/safer solution?

thanks
w.

The TUV people want both hot and neutral switched, and they also want both hot and neutral fused.

-a

 

[PRR]

> wondering if I can leave the gssl with the SPST.

It is safe enough for most of the world's safety agencies.

UN-PLUG before you stick fingers inside!

Never trust ANY switch to break ALL power.

Don't look into "unloaded" guns, don't tease the grizzly bear, don't stick your hand in the snow-blower, etc.

The double-pole is a little safer, if you are too stupid to unplug, and if your wall-outlet is mis-wired. Some safety agencies figure this is worth the extra pennies in new gear. They don't demand that older gear be retrofitted. They don't effectively control DIY gear: if you kill yourself, it is your own fault.

Since most gear is sold world-wide, and it is a hassle stocking different models for different markets, I see a lot of US-sold gear now with TUV-compliant DP switching. I like it, but I'm not about to re-switch all my older gear.

 

[warpie]

OK I see 

I wonder if there are any IEC connectors with 2 fuse holders attached rather than the usual 1 fuseholder 
anyway, thank you all for the replies

w.

 

[MartyMart]

OK I see 

I wonder if there are any IEC connectors with 2 fuse holders attached rather than the usual 1 fuseholder 
anyway, thank you all for the replies

w.

Yes there are from Farnell
I used one on my D-AOC, switched AND fused Hot & Neutral

MM.

 

[warpie]

nice, I'll take a look at Farnell then.
Not thinking of buying one at the moment though. Just out of curiosity...
thanks 

 

[kato]

I ran around my (1930's) house with an outlet tester and found about 1/3 of the outlets were reversed polarity. - and no ground on any except the ones I added in the kitchen.

Always DPST for me.