DIY AC Power Strip

This power strip is equipped with an on and off switch.

AC power strips are used to connect multiple devices to one outlet. They are used frequently with computer systems due to the number of individual components that need power, such as the computer, monitor, powered speakers, and printer. These strips are usually multiple outlets connected in parallel in a small housing. Some units have an on and off switch, but the basic units do not. Most do-it-yourselfers can build a power strip.

Things You'll Need

• 2 Dual outlets
• 1 Quad PVC Outlet receptacle box
• 1 Six foot long three prong power cord
• 12 Gauge black wire
• 12 Gauge white wire
• Wire cutters
• Wire strippers

Instructions

1. Take two dual receptacles and set them side by side. Cut one 6-inch piece of black wire and one 6-inch piece of white wire. Strip 1/2-inch of insulation off of each end of both wires. Connect one end of the black wire to the top bronze terminal on the first receptacle. Connect the other end of that wire to the top bronze terminal on the second receptacle. Connect one end of the white wire to the top silver terminal of the first receptacle, and then connect the other end to the top silver terminal of the second receptacle.

2. Connect a ground wire between the two receptacle ground terminals.

3. Knock out one of the bottom knockouts on the PVC outlet box. Push one end of the power cord through this hole. Strip 1/2-inch of insulation off of the black, white, and green wires of the power cord. Connect the green wire to the receptacle ground of the second receptacle. Then connect the black wire of the power cord to the bottom bronze terminal of the second receptacle. Finally, connect the white wire of the power cord to the bottom silver terminal of the second receptacle.

4. Push the receptacles and wire into the outlet box and secure the receptacles to the box using the outlet screws that come with the receptacles. Place an outlet cover on the outlet box.

References

• Hometime: Installing Outlets