AEP remains undeterred after installation problems with composite-core conductor. IF THOMAS EDISON'S FIRST ELECTRIC SYSTEM "MAINS," UNDER THE COBBLESTONES of lower Manhattan, were still the industry standard, our industry would be a curiosity shop. These direct-current mains consisted of two 20-ft (6-m) sections of half-moon-shaped solid copper bars, separated by insulation, inserted into iron tubes filled with hot liquid asphalt. Prior to installation in 1881/1882, Edison himself considered making even more changes to these problematic mains, which had been tested and modified many times in Menlo Park, New Jersey, U.S. Obviously, Edison's first-generation distribution systems are curiosities, properly housed in museums. This is because of many, many technological advances and changes. But change is never easy; it is never routine. To change is to shake hands with risk, your constant and unforgiving companion in any new venture.
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