Ground Loop


What is a ground loop? I understand that they can be caused by loose connections between components. What else can cause them? What are the effects? I have been told that humming from my power amplifier can be a symptom of a ground loop. True/False? Can ground loops cause damage to equpment?
mordenmail

Showing 2 responses by eldartford

In audio electronics a "ground loop" exists when different parts of the circuitry, say preamp and power amp, are separately grounded, creating a loop. This means that the signal reference ground may be different in the two places, and the usual result is hum.

For airplanes, a "ground loop" is a maneuver you do if you are about to run off the end of a runway. Basically you tip the plane so that one wingtip touches the ground. This makes the plane spin around and come to a stop quickly, usually with minimal damage, like a scuffed-up wingtip.
Timrhu...I have been described by fellow workers as a walking encylopedia of useless information. It makes life interesting.