When it comes to protecting your PC, surge protection is vital. Why? Because even the most minimal electricity surges and spikes can either destroy or damage your PC and accessories (these same facts apply to all your electronics – not just your computer). Spikes in electricity flow can damage units instantly, and small surges can cause gradual damage over the passage of time. Recent development and use of the ever popular microprocessor, or chip, has elevated the need for surge protectors because they are typically sensitive to fluctuations in voltage.
If you’re not familiar with the terms ‘surge’ and ‘spike’, today is the day to get your education. Spikes and surges are unbalanced increases in voltage running through the electrical lines. These surges and spikes are often caused when there is a sudden change in the use of electricity. Things like turning on a large appliance, or turning on several appliances at once can trigger surges and/or spikes, as well as extreme weather and lightening strikes.
• An electricity surge generally measures lower than 500 volts and will last for less than two seconds.
• An electricity spike is much shorter in duration than an electricity surge. Spikes typically last for less than a millisecond , however, they can measure thousands of volts.
Either of these disturbances will (often) cause PC and PC accessory damage. And in some cases, can actually ‘kill’ your equipment. However, the use of a surge protector will prevent this from happening. Surge protectors absorb electricity like a sponge and damaging excess voltage is absorbed and dissipated before any damage is done. However, keep in mind that surge protectors do have a limited absorption capacity. Once your surge protector has reached capacity, it will need to be replaced.
When shopping for a surge protector, be sure you purchase a unit branded as a surge protector. Many people mistakenly buy power strips and end up paying the a large price in computer repair. When shopping, examine the clamping voltage, line protection, circuit breaker, ground indicator light, response time, power light, power shutdown protection, cable line protection, digital satellite line protection, phone line protection, EMI/RFIs, noise reduction capabilities, and joule rating. You should also consider buying a surge protector that is outfitted with an alarm that indicates a halt in your surge protectors protection. You should also review the manufacturers given warranty. Consider requesting a data recovery program, just in case.
