adding-a-mains-power-switch [Bukobot 3D Printer Instructions & Docs]

Here are some options for adding mains power switches to your Bukobot.

**As always when dealing with mains voltages, safety is paramount.** If you don't know what are you doing then best wait until instructions are finalized and reviewed.


===== Illuminated power switch, IEC plug and fuse. =====

[Work in progress]

You can buy an integrated illuminated switch, IEC socket and fuse module here: http://www.amazon.com/Inlet-Power-Socket-Switch-IEC320/dp/B00511QVVK/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1349228924&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=Inlet+Male+Power+Socket+with+Fuse+Switch+10A+250V+3+Pin+IEC320+C14 
[There are also plenty of vendors selling them on Ebay if you are not in the US.]

You will need to buy a 20mmx5mm mains fuse for this module as well. The fuse should ideally be Slow Blow and at least 2-3x times the current rating of the supply in order to handle start up surge currents (Current = Watts / Mains Voltage). E.g., for 350W power supply at 240V it only has a max load current of 1.5A but you would want at least a 4 or 5 amp fuse. 

You can find the power supply cover design files here to fit it on the power supply: http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:31659 [Kudos to NewtonRob for this idea.]

[insert pic here for wiring of switch]

===== Other ideas =====

  * If you want to be able to disconnect the supply completely you may consider adding an inline XT60 connector on the 12V line so that it can be unplugged without needing a screwdriver. The XT60 is designed to carry up to 60A (see https://www.sparkfun.com/products/10474) There are plenty of other alternatives which would //probably// work fine although many of them are not actually rated to the necessary currents (such as the XLR or 4-pin Molex connectors used on some other Reprap printer designs). Other possible connectors that are rated to at least 30A:
    * Anderson Power Pole connectors (although expensive: [[http://www.amazon.com/Power-Pole-Connector-Black-Anderson-Sermos/dp/B000QUZD4W|here]])
    * Anyone have any other suggestions? 
  * Here is another fully enclosed power supply cover design and power socket (no switch): http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:30072
===== Other comments =====
  * Electrical regulations require that all mains cables should have some form of cable strain relief so that the connection doesn't weaken with movement of the cable or the connection won't be strained/pull out if someone trips over the cable. [The strain relief can be as simple as using a cable-tie to anchor the mains cable to the grille holes of the power supply.]
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