I'm merging my two rigs together. They were at different locations.
So now I have a zillion power plugs, and I think it's going to be too much for one 15amp circuit (wall outlet).

I need to calculate my power needs. I've read that a circiut using 14 gauge wire is:
(volts x amps = watts)
120 x 15 = 1800

From here, where do I go?

(1) Am I to add all the gear's watts (as stated on the gear's back panels)?

(2) I'm assuming the 'stated' wattage is "at full power", not for gear in an idle state. Is this true?

It's very possible I will exceed this, and will need to use another circuit, which brings me to my next worry - a ground loop.

(3) When using two different circuits (from one main breaker box), what is the easiest way to deal with a loop?...keeping in mind this is not my house (rental), I don't want to add new lines.

. About my system...I am using mostly unbalanced audio connections. many older effects, mono synths, computer,etc. .and the few that have balanced in/outs I am tying "cold to ground" to achieve unbalanced operation, and have no probs there.

There is one more possibility. there are workers digging a trench (2 1/2 foot deep) outside my window.

(3) Could I lay a grounding rod in there (horizontally), and use that as an isolated ground? Would I need to change the outlets to "isolated ground" types, or could I rig something up "home-style" temporarily?

One final Q:

(4) I'm getting some audible interference which sounds like of the cell phone type, a faint. ."click. click,. click. .click,click,click,. " (like when you hold your cell phone close to some gear). .but it happens even when MY cell if off. is my house being bugged? :o
Is there a way to eliminate that?

thanks so much,

=RR=