If the computer is equipped with a modem, the modem should also be surge protected. Protecting the power line
without protecting the modem line provides only partial protection.
Quality of Electrical Wiring and Service
Wiring should be up to current NEC standards and have verified good AC grounds. It is important that your computer
system be plugged into a grounded AC outlet when charging and that all peripherals connected to your system
reference the same AC ground.
Selecting the Right Equipment
There are a number of companies that sell quality surge suppressors such as Sutton Designs, APC, and Panamax. When
you are looking for a surge suppressor, consider these things.
Expect to pay at least $50 for a good quality surge suppressor.
The surge suppressor should be a UL 1449, 497, and 1283 listed for surge suppression, modem surge protection,
and RFI/EMI noise filtering respectively.
The surge suppressor should have diagnostic LEDs that verify good AC ground, proper wiring, and proper surge
operation. On/off switches that light are not recommended since they can produce electrical noise.
The Joule ratings should be a minimum of 480 Joules for the AC surge circuit.
The Joule ratings should be a minimum of 240 Joules for the modem.
The modem surge circuit should present low capacitance to the modem line or it will slow the transmission rate.
Capacitance should be specified at less than 50 picofarads.
Quality surge suppressor manufacturers generally offer a lifetime warranty.
Consider obtaining a protected equipment coverage policy which insures the equipment in the event of surge
damage.
The devices that will be attached to the computer also need to be surge protected.
72_0103_003
10 December 2002
© 2002 Itronix Corporation. All rights reserved.
GoBook II™ Help
Page 48 of 74
GoBook II Help
9/30/2003
file://C:\Documents%20and%20Settings\harwoodm.ITRXNT1\Local%20Settings\Temp\~hhDDD5.htm
