Quick Reference Guide 17
Surge Protectors
Surge protectors and power strips equipped with surge protection help prevent
damage to your computer from voltage spikes that can occur during electrical
storms or after power interruptions. Some surge protector manufacturers include
warranty coverage for certain types of damage. Carefully read the device warranty
when choosing a surge protector and compare joule ratings to determine the
relative effectiveness of different devices. A device with a higher joule rating
offers more protection.
NOTICE: Most surge protectors do not protect against power fluctuations or
power interruptions caused by nearby lightning strikes. When lightning occurs in
your area, disconnect the telephone line from the telephone wall jack and
disconnect your computer from the electrical outlet.
Many surge protectors have a telephone jack for modem protection. See the
surge protector documentation for modem connection instructions.
NOTICE: Not all surge protectors offer network adapter protection. Disconnect the
network cable from the network wall jack during electrical storms.
Line Conditioners
NOTICE: Line conditioners do not protect against power interruptions.
Line conditioners are designed to maintain AC voltage at a fairly constant level.
Uninterruptible Power Supplies
NOTICE: Loss of power while data is being saved to the hard drive may result in
data loss or file damage.
NOTE: To ensure maximum battery operating time, connect only your computer to
a UPS. Connect other devices, such as a printer, to a separate power strip that
provides surge protection.
A UPS protects against power fluctuations and interruptions. UPS devices contain
a battery that provides temporary power to connected devices when AC power
is interrupted. The battery charges while AC power is available. See the UPS
manufacturer documentation for information on battery operating time and to
ensure that the device is approved by Underwriters Laboratories (UL).