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The Specifics

I've just recently started using more equipment. My set-up consists of two external monitors powered by a laptop (15" late 2011 MacBook Pro if that matters). I have a docking station, an external hard drive, a set of speakers, a printer, and one or two other small devices (tablet, phone, etc.) also connected to outlets.

Some General Question(s)

How should I (or anyone) go about connecting their valuable equipment to electricity in a way that protects it from standard sorts of electrical damage (in a residential setting)?

What equipment is really needed? Are surge protectors sufficient? Is it advisable to connect all of your devices to a single surge protected power strip, or should you attempt to spread your devices across multiple wall outlets (each with it's own surge protector)?

The Main Question(s)

What sorts of electrical damage is it reasonable to fear (in a residential setting)? What is the best way to protect equipment from this damage?

Ƭᴇcʜιᴇ007
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Dennis
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1 Answers1

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To put this in perspective, the vast majority of computers and electronics use an inexpensive surge suppressor or nothing at all, and are never damaged for the lifetime of the device. Nonetheless, I'll go over the common types:

Power Tap: These provide no protection at all; they simply provide additional outlets. The back or bottom label will identify whether it's a "power tap" or "surge suppressor".

Surge Suppressor (MOV-based): These are the commonplace "power bars" you see everywhere. They protect using metal oxide varistor (MOVs), which wear out every time they protect against a surge. When they're completely used up, they will continue to provide power without protection! Because of this, it's recommended to purchase one with a "protected" indicator light.

Uninterruptible Power Supply (Line-Interactive): These are commonly known as a "battery backup" or a "UPS". They have a relay which switches over to battery power when power problems are detected. Unlike surge suppressors, these protect against a large variety of problems, most notably brownouts.

Uninterruptible Power Supply (Double-Conversion): Also known as an "online" UPS. These are the ultimate in power protection. Your devices always draw power from a battery, which make them immune to all power problems. Unfortunately, they are also very inefficient and expensive.

Jason
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