[TenTec] Jupiter and static problems

[Robert & Linda McGraw K4TAX]

Keep in mind that most of the "wall wart" power supplies do not have a 3rd 
pin ground.  I'm not sure the reason and I didn't research the NEC 
regulations as to why,  but we've all seen them this way.  Now with that 
said, there is always some amount of leakage current between primary and 
secondary of any transformer.  Although the leakage current is very small, 
usually in the microampere range, the voltage being dependant on resistance 
can be significant as B.J. has pointed out.  Most solid state devices won't 
like a potential difference of 50 volts.

One other respondent, Stuart,  indicated that things should not be powered 
up when making connections.  Excellent advice.  Specially true if there is 
likelihood of the wrong connection being made.  It is much safer to make all 
the connections, check to see that they are correct as intended and then 
apply power.

Rule of thumb:  connect the grounds, connect the signal lines, connect the 
power.  This works in all cases and is the reason the 3rd pin ground 
connector extends beyond the length of AC mains pins such that ground makes 
contact first.

My CE at the broadcast station where I studied and learned always said, 
"Safety first, funerals latter".

73
Bob, K4TAX