Length of mains cables...

Posted by: Top Cat on 24 April 2003

Hi folks, a quick question.

If I'm making my own power chords, is there an optimal length that they should be? Much as for some amps 5m is the optimum speaker cable length, does a similar thing apply to power chords.

I ask because I'm about to install a multi-spur dedicated mains, and I'd like to keep the amount of visible cabling to a minimum, and contemplated having really short cables of around 10" to 14".

John

TC '..'
"Girl, you thought he was a man, but he was a Muffin..."

Posted on: 24 April 2003 by Don Atkinson

Top Cat,

f I'm making my own power chords, is there an optimal length that they should be?

I find that having power cords about 6 inches longer than the distance between wall socket and black box works a lot better than ones that are 6 inches shorter than the distance between wall socket and black box.........(sorry)

I have a slight recollection that a MINIMUM length is appropriate. Something to do with electron reflection from cable end to cable end, if they are too short. Sorry, but can't remember what the recommended minimum was, possibly about a metre ? but could have been a load of bullsh*t...

Obviously the longer they are the greater the volts drop (= less power)

Cheers

Don