Quote:
Originally Posted by ppppenguin
Usual to plug the radio etc under test into the isolating transformer.
The output of the transformer should float. Neither end grounded.
A GFCI (RCD on this side of The Pond) is of no use on the output side of an isolating transformer. Apart from the rare and special case of a failure of the transfomer itself it doesn't give any extra protection on the input side either.
If working on a hot chassis (live chassis in UK/Europe) set an isolating transformer is essential if you want to connect testgear to the set. Otherwise you can make sure the chassis is conencted to neutral and use a GFCI/RCD.
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Note I said a GFCI wall outlet to imply it's used on the input side of the isolation transformer. If the isolation transformer shorts primary to secondary and the chassis leaks current to ground, and if the transformer is plugged in to a GFCI wall outlet that is built in to the house the GFCI will trip and act as a fail safe if the transformer fails.