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surfisup1000

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  #1257840 13-Mar-2015 13:07
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raytaylor: DLI is the one i would recommend
http://www.digital-loggers.com/lpc.html
gowifi is also the local supplier.


I talked to gowifi and they say the DLI is illegal to use in NZ -- i think it is something to do with the outlet types only supporting 120v. 

So, back to square 1.   

I'm guessing I'll just have to order something from overseas. 

The above recommendations are appreciated , but , not really after a kitset or an expensive rack mount power controller .    Plenty of these product types exist , just not here in NZ from what I can tell. 






richms
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  #1257856 13-Mar-2015 13:24
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It will be illegal for them to sell it in NZ, legal to use if its a personal import.




Richard rich.ms

BTR

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  #1257903 13-Mar-2015 14:21
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Computer Dynamix sell managed power boards but they are pricey as this stuff usually is.



surfisup1000

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  #1257962 13-Mar-2015 15:56
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BTR: Computer Dynamix sell managed power boards but they are pricey as this stuff usually is.


 i guess because here in NZ they are largely business to business. 

This web power switch 7 is an awesome device, for $129USD. 



surfisup1000

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  #1257973 13-Mar-2015 16:11
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richms: It will be illegal for them to sell it in NZ, legal to use if its a personal import.


The online specs for the power switch v7 say this...

Question: What are the current and voltage ratings?
Answer: The internal power supply is rated 70-240V DC-400Hz auto sensing. Total current is limited to 15A by circuit breaker. Electrical codes in most areas prohibit use of standard L-15 plugs and outlets on other than 120VAC circuits.

And, in the downloadable spec pdf....

Power Supply Rating 90-240V, AC/DC Autosensing
Input Power Cord Removable C19 14AWG 6’ length standard
Inlet and Outlet Rating UL, CSA 15A, 120VAC only
Input Frequency Power supply - DC-400Hz 

I don't quite get it, because the input voltage supports 230v. But, what is this L-15 plug and why is it no good for 230v?

I'm guessing they are saying that the outlets are american type plugs . 

Is there a safety issue though, if I use plug adapters? 

SirHumphreyAppleby
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  #1257996 13-Mar-2015 16:25
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surfisup1000:
richms: It will be illegal for them to sell it in NZ, legal to use if its a personal import.


The online specs for the power switch v7 say this...

Question: What are the current and voltage ratings?
Answer: The internal power supply is rated 70-240V DC-400Hz auto sensing. Total current is limited to 15A by circuit breaker. Electrical codes in most areas prohibit use of standard L-15 plugs and outlets on other than 120VAC circuits.
...

I don't quite get it, because the input voltage supports 230v. But, what is this L-15 plug and why is it no good for 230v?

I'm guessing they are saying that the outlets are american type plugs . 

Is there a safety issue though, if I use plug adapters? 


The 120VAC rating likely refers to the maximum voltage at which the connector or other components are rated for 15A. If you are connecting to a 10A socket, there shouldn't be any issue using it at 230VAC.

You would likely be using a standard Australian/NZ plug to C19 cable, not an L15, although according to Wikipedia, the L15 connector is rated to 250V. It is likely just not used for high voltage in the US.

EDIT: On the issue of plug adaptors, I would recommend caution. Some of these are of very poor quality, and recently some with poor build quality have become prohibited imports. I'd avoid adaptors and use US power cables where possible.

 
 
 

Move to New Zealand's best fibre broadband service (affiliate link). Free setup code: R587125ERQ6VE. Note that to use Quic Broadband you must be comfortable with configuring your own router.

gzt

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  #1258031 13-Mar-2015 17:01
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The rating 15A at 120V equates to a 7.5A rating when raised to 240V. (&assuming all components are rated for that voltage)

SATTV
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  #1258070 13-Mar-2015 18:39
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EDIT: On the issue of plug adaptors, I would recommend caution. Some of these are of very poor quality, and recently some with poor build quality have become prohibited imports. I'd avoid adaptors and use US power cables where possible.


Power plug adapters  are illegal to sell and use in New Zealand, have been for several years.

You can only connect approved devices to the NZ power supply including private imports, you are liable for a massive fine if you get caught from MED, if there is a fire your insurance company will probably deny your claim and if someone gets electrocuted you don't want to think about it.

On a side note, if anyone knows of a cost effective SMS power controller ( not the jaycar kit ) I am interested in one, i have a client with a remote modem and it is an hours drive for me to get there to power cycle it when it locks up after a storm, if I could send an SMS to power cycle it, it will save us a lot of headaches.
there used to be one made by SWATCH if i recall but i can not find it.
I have thought about modifying a burglar alarm but again I want a reliable commercial product rather than a broggle.

John






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surfisup1000

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  #1258101 13-Mar-2015 20:26
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Does that mean all the stuff I bought from amazon, and half the cheap chinese gizmos on trademe are illegal?

SirHumphreyAppleby
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  #1258103 13-Mar-2015 20:32
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surfisup1000: Does that mean all the stuff I bought from amazon, and half the cheap chinese gizmos on trademe are illegal?


No. It is only illegal to sell items in NZ with foreign plug types. Items you import yourself, and adaptors are perfectly legal.

The prohibited item I was referring to earlier... http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/industries/8245910/Plug-adaptor-banned-over-shock-risk

surfisup1000

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  #1258105 13-Mar-2015 20:50
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He he, i'm not sure now. SATTV sounds like they know something about these plugs. 


As you say, I think I can probably actually use my US power cords that I have lying around somewhere -- they have the same plug that goes into power supplies anyway. 

I'm almost convinced to go for this . 

 
 
 

Shop on-line at New World now for your groceries (affiliate link).
richms
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  #1258114 13-Mar-2015 21:01
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The US power connector is a dangerous piece of crap. At least find something with IEC inlets and outlets so you arnt putting anyone with a finger at extreme risk when working near the equipment.




Richard rich.ms

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  #1258142 13-Mar-2015 21:56
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surfisup1000: Does that mean all the stuff I bought from amazon, and half the cheap chinese gizmos on trademe are illegal?


If the stuff from Amazon has a NZ power plug and the proper approvals you are fine, otherwise they are illegal.
Yes lots and lots and lots of the cheap chinese stuff on TradeMe is illegal, it is up to the importer to make sure that they meet the regulations, this is why loads of electricians will not install LED lights purchased off the internet without the approval paperwork.

Also in case you did not know, all electrical goods that are sold have to be staged and tested before sale, this is why lots of charity shops do not take electrical goods, Trade Me knows this regulation and it is hidden in the T&C somewhere.

John





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surfisup1000

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  #1258145 13-Mar-2015 22:01
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I wonder why the customs don't stop the importation of overseas goods that have foreign plugs if it is illegal? 

Most people would not know they are illegal, although sirhumphery states it is ok if you import privately.   Two different views here, who is right? 

richms
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  #1258146 13-Mar-2015 22:02
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Illegal to sell, not illegal to use. Downlights are not in any way comparable because they are installed, not plugged in by an end user.

Use in a business is at the discression of the safety officer on site, who will basically have no clue usually and just look at the plug on the end of the cable for being an ok one.




Richard rich.ms

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