About Surge Protectors

Whether you're a home user or a business owner, you probably have thousands of dollars worth of computer and electronic equipment. Unless that equipment is connected to a surge protector, however, your investment would be in serious risk.

The danger is that the flow of electricity can, in a very short period, rise far beyond its normal rate; in North America the normal rate is 120 volts. This momentary spike is called a surge. The risk that a surge may occur is especially high during thunderstorms, but they can occur at any time. A good surge protector will ensure that your equipment can withstand most surges, although different models are guaranteed to protect against surges of differing levels of severity.
One should keep in mind that electrical outlets are not the only sources of surges - cable and telephone lines are just as susceptible. If your equipment is attached to these lines, be sure to choose a surge protector with inputs and outputs for cable or telephone lines.

Basic power bars, which offer several outlets but extremely minimal surge protection (if any), retail for about $5 to $10. Surge protectors with higher ratings, as well as multiple outlets, can be purchased for $20 to $40. Larger surge stations are available for $30 and up, and offer better voltage protection and line conditioning.

For maximum security, a UPS, or Uninterruptible Power Supply, allows you to continue working after a blackout or power surge. UPS units enable the computer to continue its operation for at least a few minutes, following a blackout, to give you time to save your work and safely shut down your computer. The UPS does this with internal batteries that store power on a continuous basis.

While most UPS units do provide some level of surge protection, it is still a good idea to connect them to a dedicated surge protector, if for no other reason than to protect the UPS unit. UPS units typically cost at least $150, but most people will appreciate that extra measure of security.

When shopping for a surge protector, examine its UL (Underwriters Laboratories) rating. Be wary of products without a UL rating sticker, because this ensures that the product meets minimal safety standards, while giving pertinent information about the product's surge capabilities. Common surge protector and UPS manufacturers include APS, Belkin, Tripp Lite and Minuteman.