Am I Protected If I Have a “Power Strip” Connected to My Computer?

Most “power strip” type surge suppressers sold at retail electronics stores offer very limited protection against disturbances, and some are little more than a multi-outlet extension cord. Many inexpensive power strips will be damaged after one voltage spike, and fail to protect equipment after the first incident often leaving the consumer unaware that the equipment is unprotected. Consumers should look for power strips that offer a test circuit and diagnostic light that will indicate if the unit is working properly. Surge suppressers are rated according to the size of voltage spike that they can handle, so look for units with a high enough “Joules” rating to protect your equipment. In addition, look for products that offer a warranty against damage to the equipment connected to them. Features to consider when shopping for power strip surge suppressors include:

• Does it handle high voltage disturbances (above 1000 Joules) and 54,000 peak amps without failing? 
• Peak surge current for plug-in surge protectors. 
• A test circuit that indicates the unit is working properly? 
• Telephone/modem line protection 
• A manufacturer’s warranty on products and connected electrical equipment 
• A listing or rating by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and/or Underwriters Laboratories (UL)

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