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Installing dedicated lines. Which cable to use?

Hi guys

I'm having some dedicated lines put in. I've already purchased some Porter Ports (what a great guy that Albert P.!), and have a couple of questions concerning which cable to use. I want to use 10-2 solid core, but am confused about a couple of things:

-the runs from the breaker box will be relatively short (15-20 feet). Should I use shielded Romex or unshielded? I do have some problems with noise (hum, buzz)in my setup when using unshielded interconnects (Nordost). I am told that unshielded sounds better but is noisier. Experiences?

-I am having trouble locating brand name Romex. The local HD and Lowe's don't carry it, but do have a Romex-like 10-2 copper wire. Is real Romex worth the search? Lots of references in the archives to Romex from HD. What gives? Is the name Romex used generically to mean any similar cable? What is a good source for real Romex?

Thanks in advance and any other suggestions or tips would be greatly appreciated.
frogman
accent
41 posts
 
I use those orange extension cords, just try to get a long one with lotsa plugs. Just cut that half round part off and they work great. And if you plug em into that plug outside your neighbors, they can even lower your electrical bill!
MMM
883dave
50 posts
 
I have been told by several people to make sure all lines are on the same phase.
(I think it has to do with the remote possibility of a short, thus giving you 220 volts into your equipment?, maybe someone could confirm this)

You should also try to run the lines as far apart from each other and all other lines as possible
porziob
316 posts
 
Nrchy, for your edification (assuming it`s possible) BX is required in NYC by code. Call a local electrician since you doubt me.
nrchy's avatar
nrchy
2,111 posts
 
Sorry Porziob, never having had the misfortune of living near you I was wrong! I guess that law is similar to the union plumbers in philly that forced a builder to install miles of plumbing that will never be used simply to keep the union happy.

I guess it doesn't surprise me that NYC is stupid enough to disallow a product that is proven to be more than adaquate throughout the rest of the country.

Your ego must be smiling today for having won this meaningless arguement.
sean
6,229 posts
 
I guess that we all learned something in this thread. It's good to see that there are others paying attention that can help prevent "bad situations" from potentially coming into play.

While i don't think that Romex type wiring would result in any type of problem i.e. fire or shock hazard, it could make the difference between an insurance claim being approved or denied if some other electrical problem come into play.

Maybe we all need to work on our "bedside manners" and take things a little less personally. This includes me too : ) Sean
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