How to choose a Surge Protector

Your computer is susceptible to surges from both the power line and also any external line such as a telephone line when using a modem or a cable line. To best protect your computer choose a surge protector that also provides protection for any other external line plugged into to your computer. Most surge protectors use an MOV (metal oxide varistor) which works by diverting excessive voltage to ground and thus protecting the computer. However, one good surge could burn out an MOV. Therefore, it is imperative to have an indicator light on the surge protector that verifies that the MOV is not burned out.

Acceptable surge protectors will have UL (Underwriter Labs) rating and must specify "transient voltage surge suppressor", if they do not say "transient voltage surge suppressor" it may just be a power bar. The quality of the MOV and the internal circuit determine the quality of the surge protector. Generally the lower cost surge protectors use inferior MOVs and do not have indicator lights. Many computer owners choose surge protectors that also have UPS (uninterruptible power supply) capability which means it has a battery which will sustain the computer for some time during a power outage. The length of the battery time is dependent on the quality of the unit.

The better surge protectors and surge stations include inputs for telephone and cable lines, have indicator lights to check the MOV, have individual switches for each outlet, and often have a built in circuit breakers are generally of better quality and will provide more protection for your computer. If you get a surge protector with UPS you get additional protection.