Purpose of isolation transformers

[SteveThackery]

..... on the electronics bench the isolation transformer isn't really a safety tool. It solves a certain technical problem.

I very much agree with this analysis. Thinking of the transformer as a safety aid can imply that it improves safety, whereas in reality it turns one type of safety hazard into another type. It is an indispensable tool for a specific technical problem.

[johansen]

What is the point of isolation transformers?

They exist these days, to argue about how lethal they aren't.

I cut the ground pin off my rigol oscope.

I also cut the ground pin on my hakko soldering iron, and I installed a neon lamp and resistor, so when I'm soldering on live equipment (accidently i swear) the light will illuminate.

[jonpaul]

Was  EE and power supply consultant since 1970s, always used this setup.

120 or 240 Mains>>2 KVA Signal isolation 240:240>>10A GenRad Variac>>DUT.

All my Scopes are always used with normal grounded IEC 3 wire to mains.

Never had any issues.

Jon

[Ice-Tea]

What is the point of isolation transformers?

They exist these days, to argue about how lethal they aren't.

I cut the ground pin off my rigol oscope.

I also cut the ground pin on my hakko soldering iron, and I installed a neon lamp and resistor, so when I'm soldering on live equipment (accidently i swear) the light will illuminate.

Might I suggest you be carefull with throwing around remarks like that, even more so in the beginner section?