Is this a grounding issue

[paulsiu]

Recently, after I move my PC to a different location, I notice that my network no longer works. The hub notices that there is a connection (the green LED connection light goes on), but XP complains that the cable is unplugged or I get an "acquring network address" and timeout.

After some fiddling around, I notice that if I plug the computer into a different outlet, it works fine. Is this due to grounding? What could be causing this issue?

Paul

 

[blemoine]

could be. have an electrician check the original outlet and see if it is wired correctly.

 

[paulsiu]

I finally got a outlet checker. Apparently, one outlet had ground, and the other did not. Without ground, the wired network apparently does not work correctly.

 

[JackMDS]

Grounding is needed for safety, and Not for closing the computer electrical circuits. I would check carefully the computer and the Network Cables too.

:sun:

 

[bruceb]

OK ... now did you rewire the outlet properly (or if you do not know how or are afraid, call an electrician)

Turn off the circuit breaker for that outlet
Remove wall plate & outlet .. do not disconnect wires

BLACK WIRE should be on the BRASS SCREWS (Narrow Slot side of receptacle)
WHITE WIRE should be on the SILVER SCREWS (Wide Slot side of receptacle)

If you have BX or Armored Cable feeding the outlet box, it usually creates the Ground
for you IF it is properly installed & is in a METAL OUTLET BOX

If you have ROMEX, you will need to put a 6" Green Jumper from the BARE WIRE
of the ROMEX to the GREEN Grounding Screw on the Receptacle) .. you can also
do the same with BX, just terminate the wire to the METAL Box

Power it back up and retest .. if still bad, it could be miswired in the Breaker Panel

 

[paulsiu]

It's an apartment, so I don't think they'll take kindly to mods. Don't think they'll give me access to the circuit breaker either 🙂.

Paul