Suppressors Protect Home Electronics
Q. I plan to buy a computer for my home. I’ve heard I should connect the computer to a surge suppressor or an uninterruptible power supply to prevent losing data in the computer’s memory. Which of these devices do I need, and what special features should I look for?
A. When you plug an appliance into an electric outlet, it becomes part of the electric power system. You are not only accessing electricity but also connecting your appliance to other appliances, other buildings, and even the utility distribution system. Computers, home entertainment equipment and appliances containing sensitive electronics can be damaged if distortions occur in your home’s power.
Ideally, computer equipment should operate on a circuit that doesn’t include a heavy load from other appliances. You can also reduce damage to electronics with power conditioning devices. The manufacturer can suggest protection, and the store where you bought the equipment may also be able to help.
Following is a description of power problems you might experience and the effectiveness of three different power conditioning devices: surge suppressors, voltage regulators and uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system.
Surge suppressors limit power surges and spikes at the point of installation or electric panel, and can lengthen the life of today’s ultra-sensitive electronic devices. Features include noise filtering and an indicator light to let you know that the Transient Voltage Surge Suppressor is working and that equipment grounding is present.
Different surge suppressors are designed to protect different external line connections, including TV cables and telephone lines. Look for the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 1449 listing stamped on the product itself. This indicates that the product meets or exceeds established minimum safety standards for surge suppressors. (Note: To ensure proper performance, the wall outlet must have three openings, including a proper ground, for the three-prong plug on the surge suppressor.) Plug-in types are available for $10 to more than $100.
Additional specifications to look for include: clamping level, the voltage level where protection begins. The lower the level, the better. Protection in all three modes: line to neutral, neutral to ground, and line to ground. Verify clamping voltages in each mode. Total energy dissipation capacity, specified in joules (the higher the better). Thermal protection on MOVs (MOV stands for metal oxide varister). This little transistorlike device absorbs voltage spikes that could otherwise harm electronic equipment. Warranty for equipment that is plugged into it.
Voltage regulators connect the normal power supply and equipment being protected. They keep equipment voltage within acceptable limits when the supply voltage varies outside a usable range. Some of the more sophisticated devices include surge (not spike) and sag protection.
Uninterruptible power supply, also called a battery backup system, supplies an appliance with electricity during sags and power failures. This gives you time to save all your open computer applications and do an orderly shutdown. The system generally includes surge protection; some models also include noise filtering. Make sure that the UPS you purchase is rated UL-1778. Prices of UPS start at less than $100.
Finally, if a lightning storm is approaching, pull the plugs on sensitive appliances, surge suppressors and UPS and all communications and data cables.
These preventive measures can help safeguard your household electronics. If you experience malfunctions after taking these steps, call an electrician to check your home’s electrical system to make sure the wiring and grounding are in proper working order.
For a free brochure on surge suppressors, contact Washington Water Power at (800) 227-9197.
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