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Surge Protectors

By Terry Kerby

Surge protectors are used to help protect sensitive electronic components like your computer, modem, TV, DVD player, stereo, etc from electrical spikes or surges.  They have a finite life and can only withstand so many surges.  Their life is measured by a unit of energy called a Joule.  Surge protectors sell for a few dollars to more than eighty dollars.  Is there a practical difference?  You bet!  Generally speaking, the more you pay the higher the Joule rating will be.  Also, don’t bother the buy one without an indicator light that tells you whether or not it’s functioning properly.  Remember after so many surges its useful life as a surge protector has ended although it will still function as an electrical strip.

 

Surge protector may have a variety of connectors for phone lines, modems and electronic telephones.  They may also have coaxial cable input for cable modems, satellite systems and cable TV.

On a listed surge protector, you should find a couple of ratings. Look for:

bullet Clamping voltage - This tells you what voltage will cause the MOVs to conduct electricity to the ground line. A lower clamping voltage indicates better protection. There are three levels of protection in the UL rating -- 330 V, 400 V and 500 V. Generally, a clamping voltage more than 400 V is too high.
bullet Energy absorption/dissipation - This rating, given in joules, tells you how much energy the surge protector can absorb before it fails. A higher number indicates greater protection. Look for a protector that is at least rated at 200 to 400 joules. For better protection, look for a rating of 600 joules or more.
bullet Response time - Surge protectors don't kick in immediately; there is a very slight delay as they respond to the power surge. A longer response time tells you that your computer (or other equipment) will be exposed to the surge for a greater amount of time. Look for a surge protector that responds in less than one nanosecond.

 

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