Question
How can the effects of ground loops be minimized?
Answer Options
- A) Connect all ground conductors in series
- B) Connect the AC neutral conductor to the ground wire
- C) Avoid using lock washers and star washers when making ground connections
- D) Bond equipment enclosures together
Correct Answer: D
Explanation
A ground loop is an unwanted current path that occurs when two or more pieces of interconnected equipment are grounded via multiple paths that have different ground potentials (voltages). These differences cause currents to flow between the equipment, often introducing audible hum or noise into the system.
The solution is to create a single-point grounding system. The most effective way to approach this is to bond equipment enclosures together using short, heavy-gauge straps to create a common reference plane (a large equipotential surface). This minimizes voltage differences between chassis, greatly reducing the current flow that causes the ground loop noise.
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