Hi Judd:
> A universal battery charger that I am reviewing is powered by AC 110-220 or
> 24VDC.
>
> The 24 VDC enters the device via a male IEC 320 connector....OUCH!.
>
> The AC enters via a non-detachable recognized power cord with NEMA- 5-15
> molded male connector.
Here is the Scope from IEC 320-1:1994:
"This part of IEC 320 is applicable to two-pole appliance couplers
for a.c. only, with or without earthing contact, with a rated
voltage not exceeding 250 V and a rated current not exceeding 16 A,
for household and similar general purposes and intended for the
connection of a supply cord to electrical appliances or other
electrical equipment for 50 Hz or 60 Hz supply."
Since IEC 320-1 is also EN 60320-1, it would be contrary to EU
requirements to use such construction in the EU.
While the use of an IEC 320 connector for non-mains power in
other countries might not be so specific, it would certainly
be appropriate to make sure the product is safe under the fault
condition of applying 120 and 220 V ac to the dc input terminals
(with and without a battery connected to the charging terminals).
Furthermore, I suspect the product will suffer from excessive
warranty failures! IEC 320 power cords are EVERYWHERE! It's
a self-correcting situation:
1) Excessive warranty costs will trigger a fix, or
2) If the warranty is voided by connected the dc input to
ac, then the customer will turn to another brand battery
charger, or
3) If applying ac to the dc input terminals causes a safety
problem, the costs of recall will trigger the fix or
removal from the market.
Best regards,
Rich
-------------------------------------------------------------
Richard Nute Product Safety Engineer
Hewlett-Packard Company Product Regulations Group
All-In-One Division Tel : +1 619 655 3329
16399 West Bernardo Drive FAX : +1 619 655 4979
San Diego, California 92127 e-mail: [email protected]
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