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40 Setting Up Your Computer
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Power Protection Devices
Several devices are available to protect against power fluctuations and failures:
•Surge protectors
• Line conditioners
• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)
Surge Protectors
Surge protectors and power strips equipped with surge protection help to prevent damage
to your computer from voltage spikes that can occur during electrical storms or following
power interruptions. The level of protection is usually commensurate with the cost of the
surge protector. Some surge protector manufacturers include warranty coverage for certain
types of damage. Carefully read the device warranty when choosing a surge protector. A
device with a higher joule rating offers more protection. Compare joule ratings to
determine the relative effectiveness of different devices.
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.