Whats the best way?

[One Vision]

Hya folks whats the best way to setup a laptop to be used as disco, i.e. what external sound card etc. etc. etc.
Basicly whats needed?

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I hate to say this again, but please use the search as there is loads of info out there!

The abridged version is laptop, possibly ground loop isolators, either usb sound card, PCMCIA sound card, or midi controller (the Denon HC4500 has it's own) and mixer.

There's loads of choice for software and hardware - you need to trial a few. It also depends hat you want to use it for - just music or music, video, karaoke etc.

[KaraokeDJ]

Removed

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

One tip - seen as your asking about laptops is cut the earth wire if you have one going into your power supply. Your laptop doesn't need it but chances are there will be an earth in the 13a plug. I use to get so annoyed at a hum until I read about the ground loop - and then wondered why on earth is an earth supplied when you don't even need it.
The only thing you must do is protect your power supply from damage, as that is when earth would protect you/your kit from electrical shock/damage. As we are all careful with our kit, though, I suppose telling you to be careful is a redundant comment.

Anyway, key point is that if you get a hum, lose the earth.



I am not sure if that is a very good idea?

Is it safe to do that?

[KaraokeDJ]

Removed.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I'm no electrician!!!

Which is why you shouldn't really be posting advice like that if you're not sure.

Can someone clarify this please?

[Danno13]

That extension lead would not pass PAT.

Complete madness!

[spin mobile disco]

Earth is used to trip the fuse in event of a fault. The power adapter itself needs one due to it being a big lump of metal encapsulated in a plastic shell. If the insulation broke down inside the adapter it could cause a thermal overload. I.e the wire becomes so hot it catches fire or melts. The earth would mean the fuse would go to stop it . Without it , it would carry on potentially causing a fire or at the very least damage to the laptop.
An earth loop isolator is a much more preferable option ( and safer as well.)

[DJ James Lake]

An earth loop isolator is a much more preferable option ( and safer as well.)

They don't always work though.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

They don't always work though.

Everyone that I know who uses then has no problems. :confused:

[spin mobile disco]

They have to be of the right quality and installed correctly. Most people have no problems with them.