Relocatable Power Taps

Relocatable Power Taps --   also called RPTs, multiple outlet strips, plug strips, surge suppression strips, etc. -- are electrical devices consisting of several receptacles (outlets), an On/Off power switch, overcurrent protection (circuit breaker), and a cord. They were originally designed and listed for use with computers, associated hardware components and peripherals. Computer-related equipment often requires up to 6 outlets and typically draws low total current (3 to 5 amperes). Although the circuit breaker in a RPT is often rated at up to 15 amps, no single load should exceed 5 amperes or 600 watts, and the total load should not exceed 12 amperes or 1440 watts.

Berkeley Lab policy is that Relocatable Power Taps may not be used to supply power to high-current equipment. Examples include, but are not limited to:

Portable space heaters
Office fans
Copy machines that are not computer printers
Coffee pots
Microwave ovens
Toasters and toaster ovens
Refrigerators
Any other single load exceeding 600 watts

High-current equipment must be plugged directly into wall outlets. If additional outlets are required, please contact Facilities.

Relocatable Power Taps must be plugged directly into a permanently mounted outlet, such as a wall outlet. DO NOT plug an RPT into an extension cord.

Acceptable uses of Relocatable Power Taps include:

Personal computer and associated peripherals
Multiple low-current laboratory measurement equipment
Radios
Fluorescent desk lamps
Other low-current (less than 600 watts), non-motor powered electrical loads

One of the hazards associated with Relocatable Power Taps is failure of the internal circuit breaker. If the circuit breaker trips more than once for a given load, the RPT should be evaluated by an electrical technician or other qualified employee.

Please address any questions to:

Tom Caronna
LBNL Electrical Safety Engineer
486-4314
[email protected]

Back to "Today at Berkeley Lab"