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Learn more about Surge Protectors

Surge protectors are an inexpensive way to protect your gear against random power spike damage. They're not all the same. Here are a few tips before you start shopping.

Not all are the same.
Power strips and surge protectors (also called surge suppressors) are different. Typically, power strips are cheap, multi-outlet products that are merely an expansion of a wall outlet. These usually have a circuit breaker of some sort, but most don't offer any real "protection" from electrical issues.

It's all about the joules.
Surge protectors offer protection in amounts called joules. Think of this like a reservoir of protection. If a product has 1,000 joules of protection, that means it can take ten 100 joule hits, or one 1,000 joule hit. Generally, the more joules the better.

Always get more outlets than you need.
You're always going to need more outlets. You'll undoubtedly add more gear, without necessarily getting rid of your current gear. I'm not saying that if you think you need 4 outlets get a 12, but a 6 is probably a good investment.

Power spikes can come over any wire.
If you want total protection, consider that phone and cable lines can carry power spikes too. Some surge protectors have connectors for these as well.

They don't last forever.
Remember the joule rating we discussed earlier? Well, it means that over time, a surge protector is going to wear out. Some will give you a warning when they do. Many won't. If you know you've had a serious electrical event (like lighting blew out a transformer down the street), it's probably worth replacing your surge protector just in case.

An insurance policy...on your stuff.
Some surge protectors offer a warranty (up to a certain amount) on the gear connected to the protector. For example, in the US, one model has a $300,000 Connected Equipment Warranty

What should Surge protectors protect?

Wireless networking equipment (routers, modems)
Computers / Servers
Televisions
Security systems
Gaming consoles
Mobile devices

There are several benefits to using a surge protector:

Protects against power surges: Power surges can be caused by lightning strikes, power grid fluctuations, or other electrical events. A surge protector helps to protect against these surges, which can damage or destroy electronic equipment.
Prevents data loss: Data loss can occur when electronic equipment is damaged by power surges. A surge protector helps to prevent this from happening by protecting against voltage spikes and surges.
Extends equipment lifespan: When electronic equipment is subjected to power surges and voltage spikes, it can shorten the lifespan of the equipment. A surge protector helps to extend the lifespan of electronic equipment by protecting it from these types of electrical events.
Saves money: Replacing damaged electronic equipment can be expensive. A surge protector can help to save money by protecting against damage and the need to replace equipment.
Convenience: Using a surge protector can be more convenient than unplugging and re-plugging electronic equipment during a power surge.

CompSource is here to help you decide. You can Chat with us or give our professionals a quick phone call (800)-413-7361, we can assist with the best solution for your needs and budget.

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