image

Computer and Data Protection



Surge Protection.


The purpose of a surge protector is to protect your electronic equipment from surges or spikes in electricity which can damage the circuitry. Most users think that surge protectors are only needed against direct lightning hits. The fact is that your electronic equipment can be subject to frequent smaller surges and spikes that eventually weaken the circuits. Some larger surges can come from the utility companies during bad weather and equipment switching. Surges from telephone lines and TV cables can also damage your equipment.

Many computer owners buy just power strips or protectors for around $10. In most instances, surge protectors below $20 do not provide sufficient protection for your computer system. Here are some features to look for in a good surge protector:

  • UL-1449 rating to ensure adequate testing by Underwriters Laboratories.


  • Protection between all 3 wire combinations: L-N, L-G, N-G.


  • A clamping voltage of 330. This is the level at which the device begins to block the surge - the lower the clamping voltage, the better.


  • A red indicator light to show if unit is plugged into faulty house wiring.


  • A light indicating that the unit is working properly.


  • A fast response time of 10 nanoseconds or less to dissipate surges.


  • A joule rating of at least 1000. The joule rating indicates the amount of energy that the device is capable of absorbing. The higher the number, the better.


  • Circuit breaker to protect from overloading the unit with too much equipment.


  • Filters for line noise, also known as electromagnetic interference. Indicates EMI/RFI filtering.


  • Enough outlets to protect all components of your computer system and spaced outlets for large transformer block plugs.


  • Ports for telephone line protection.


  • Coaxial cable ports if you are going to protect your television.


The unit that I use and recommend is the APC PF11VT3 11-outlet SurgeArrest Protector. It can be purchased at Amazon.com for less than $30.

See "How Surge Protectors Work" for a more detailed explanation.



image