Peter Percival  wrote:
> Also (sorry if I'm boring anyone by returning to the subject) should the
> soldering iron be powered via an isolating transformer, or is it ok if
> it plugs straight into the mains?

Generally there's no reason to use an isolating transformer.  If you're
working on live equipment it might make sense to have both the equipment and
iron on the isolation, but it is simpler just to unplug the equipment.

If your soldering iron has any mains leakage that an isolating transformer
would protect you from, there's something seriously wrong with it.

Theo

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