About to do an STC-1000 build and have a technical question about grounding

[thehopbandit]

Hi guys,

I have been doing a ton of reading and research on how to do the STC-1000 build correctly. I feel totally comfortable with doing it now.

After looking at all the diagrams, it got me interested in electrical theory and the components behind the circuit. So, this question is aimed more at those with electrical or engineering knowledge. It's just something I was hoping to learn.

There are many electronics that require grounding (three prong). And then there are many that do not (two prong). Obviously, I understand the importance of grounding, but do not really understand why some electronics can get away without doing so.

Why is the STC-1000, itself, not grounded? If you look at the diagram here, only the outlet is grounded. The STC-1000 unit has no grounding wire running to it.

So, what is the electrical reason behind why the STC-1000 unit doesn't need to be grounded, but the plugs it controls do need to be? Wouldn't the STC unit need grounding protection too in case the circuit failed?

 

[day_trippr]

Safety grounds are used to prevent humans from being fried should a hot wire come in contact with a metal enclosure. Unlike a fridge or freezer, the STC1000 has no metal enclosure, so there really is nothing to be gained with a safety ground...

Cheers!