Residential Computer/server tripping arc fault bkr

[jonnytsa]

Hi everyone, i searched this topic before posting and didn't see any answers.
Over the years i've gotten many calls about arc faults tripping in homes from desktop computers. I haven't found a solution. Every time i get a troubleshooting call, i ask them to plug the computer into a non afci outlet and it fixes the problem. I've tried tightening connections, replacing the arc fault breakers, replacing power chords on servers, and nothing fixes the arc fault trip on these electronics. Has anyone here found a solution to this?

 

[tom baker]

Do they trip on a GFCI?
If there an AFCI fault code, what are the diagnostic codes?
Is it one brand of AFCI or many?
Are there SPDs used with the computer?

 

[mbrooke]

Did someone say something about an arc fault tripping on NRTL listed equipment?

 

[hillbilly1]

As Tom said, spd’s could be the issue. Cheap Chinese versions have been known to leak current, or it may have failed and is leaking current.

 

[hbiss]

As Tom said, spd’s could be the issue. Cheap Chinese versions have been known to leak current, or it may have failed and is leaking current.

That would be true only if the AFCI had GFCI functionality also (dual function) and many do. My advice is don't use any kind of surge protection device or strip with GFCI breakers or receptacles. Gonna trip every time.

-Hal

 

[Ragin Cajun]

That would be true only if the AFCI had GFCI functionality also (dual function) and many do. My advice is don't use any kind of surge protection device or strip with GFCI breakers or receptacles. Gonna trip every time.

-Hal

So I loose the surge protection to satisfy a code rule to make the manuf's profitable???

Grrrrrr.

 

[don_resqcapt19]

That would be true only if the AFCI had GFCI functionality also (dual function) and many do. My advice is don't use any kind of surge protection device or strip with GFCI breakers or receptacles. Gonna trip every time.

-Hal

Some of the combination type AFCIs on the market, still have GFP with a 20 to 30mA trip. These are not dual-function as to be dual-function, they have to have a 5mA GFCI trip.

All of the original branch circuit/feeder type had that function, but GE and one of the Eaton ones no longer have the GFP in their combination (series/parallel) AFCIs.

 

[hbiss]

So I loose the surge protection to satisfy a code rule to make the manuf's profitable???

And think of how it is when a piece of equipment has surge protection built in. No end to the head scratching and grief there!

-Hal