Re: L6-20P -> L6-30R

["Justin M. Streiner" <streiner () cluebyfour org>]

On Tue, 18 Mar 2014, Randy wrote:

> I have a situation where a 208v/20A PDU (L6-20P) is supposedly hooked to a 
> 208v/30A circuit (L6-30R).   Before I order the correct PDU's and whip 
> cords...sanity check...are connectors 'similar' enough that this is possible 
> (with force) or am I going to find we've actually got L6-20R's on the 
> provider side?

Generally, all common electrical plugs and receptacles (straight-blade, 
twist-lock, IEC, and CEE) are physically sized and keyed differently, so 
that they can't be connected together, to keep people from connecting 
loads that require a specific voltage/current to supplies that aren't 
intended to provide it.

While it's not uncommon for someone to replace a plug with "the right 
kind", this can (in order of badness):

1. start a fire
2. short out and (hopefully) trip a breaker - that's what breakers are for!
3. violate building/electrical codes
4. void your device's warranty

As others have mentioned, just "making it work", rather than making it 
work correctly, can be bad news.

People often fancy themselves unlicensed/uncertified electricians.  I've 
seen some of the handiwork from such people, and while their creativity is 
impressive, having to rip their stuff out and re-do it is not fun.

jms