[HECnet] Number of nodes online a bit low?

[G.]

On Mon, 26 Jan 2015 11:40:23 -0500, John Wilson wrote:

I just have trouble getting used to the fact that although you *already*
run most things at what Americans would consider double voltage, you *still*
double the voltage for the big toys (things which we grudgingly whip out
the 230 VAC for).   But then again, once it's lethal, I suppose it doesn't
matter how lethal.   And copper costs more than insulation so being able
to use wimpier wire for the same wattage is good design.   Less loss too.

I don't know in other parts of Europe, but here in Italy the usual current
rating you get at home with a non-business contract is 3000 watt (i.e. around
13,5 ampere at 220 volt) and wires for appliances up to 1500 watt must have a
minimal section of 0,75 square millimeters.

Some years ago, around the time when the national electricity company was being
privatised, they started a nice commercial campaign in which the main caption
was something like "from now on your hair-dryer can make peace with your washing
machine" and was about the (almost) free upgrade from 3000 to 4500 watt rating
for homes: I don't know elsewhere, but here is quite common to have black-outs
at home if you forget to switch off things like the water heater when using the
iron and such. It happens even when you have guests (so lots of lights on) and
switch on something like the oven to heat some roast. :)

The next step is going to 6000 watt, then 10000, but then an electrician must
come home and check that your wiring is up to actual safety standards.

Bye, :)
G.