Outdoor Generator Power USA

Archived from groups: rec.audio.tech (More info?)

"Joe Boerst" wrote ...
>I am currently running an outdoor event that uses a generator.
> I haven't seen the generator up close, but it is a trailer about 7 foot
> long. (How's that for specs?). I have some strange problems with the sound
> including excessive EMI Hum in my mic lines and power amp output fading in
> and out. When I originally told the electrician that I required 2 circuits
> on the same phase, he looked at me funny and said he could not guarantee
> phase.

This topic is regularly discussed over in news:alt.audio.pro.live-sound
There are people there who are dealing with this kind of thing every week.

> The electrician is unable to get his lights running properly, so he may be
> creating problems. I am using 2 circuits off the dimmer rack that
> individually check out OK (Hot, Neutral, Ground). But when I measure Hot
> to Hot, I get 60 volts. Can anyone shed some light on using generators or
> what I should look for?

You are using circuits "off the dimmer rack"? I hope that is a typo!
Otherwise, my first step would be to get power direct from the
genny and not via any lighting dimmers, etc.

Why does "hot-to-hot" matter to you? Are you using any
equipment that takes multi-phase? Otherwise the equipment
never sees (or cares) about what it's hot is relative to anybody
elses'.

Is the genny and power distro grounded appropriately?
(As required by local regulations, etc.)