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 =====
  * Here is another IEC socket and power switch solution which doesn't use an integrated module. http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:30011
  * And another fully enclosed power supply cover design and power socket (but no switch): http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:30072

===== Other comments =====
  * Electrical regulations require that all //external// 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/pulled out if someone trips over the cable. [The strain relief could be as simple as using a cable-tie through the grille holes of the power supply to anchor the mains cable.]
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