SURVEY: Powering big iron in your home.

From: Robert F Schaefer <rschaefe_at_gcfn.org>
Date: Wed Jun 5 13:28:47 2002

>
> --- Robert Schaefer <rschaefe_at_gcfn.org> wrote:
>> I have a converted VAX 6320 in the basement...
>> My company is currently in the process of decommissioning a
>> 20KW 480/277V generator. If I can rewire that to 208/120V it might
>> just end up comming home with me to live.
>
> What we did when we had VAXen in an industrial park in North Columbus
> that only provided a 480V feed to tenants, was to go with a 2-drawer-
> file-cabinet-sized transformer. Obviously, you'd have some loss
> through another level of conversion, but it might be easier than
> rewiring a generator.

Occasionally they are tapped for either. I haven't seen it yet, but I have
my fingers crossed.

>
>> That and a small UPS will make me totally independant of the power
>> grid!
>
> But at what cost per kWH? Rates around here are well under $0.10/kWH.
> Might even be as low as $0.07/kWH, off-peak (not summertime ;-) What
> fuel source does that generator take?

Natural gas. It'd be just for backup, not to replace the grid. After
watching a few automatic transfer systems in operation, I just can't hardly
resist. What would go better with a large, unnecessary computer than a
large, unnecessary backup system? :)

>
> -ethan

Bob
Received on Wed Jun 05 2002 - 13:28:47 BST