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Power Supply Question

566 views 3 replies 4 participants last post by  loserOlimbs 
#1 ·
Recently my power supply got damaged due to a thunderstorm even tough I had a
good surge protector installed.

Obviously the best protection would be to disconnect the computer from the plug.

But I wonder if just switching the surge protector off would provide the same security ?
Or could a lightning still cause damages ?

AntonABC
 
#2 ·
Although highly unlikely, it's still possible that a really bad direct strike would still find it's way down the path in to your PC.

As long is there is an unbroken chain of wire from the house electric system to your PC, there is a chance (albeit an extremely small one) that you could still suffer some damage.

IMO - is this likely to ever happen? No. Don't worry about it.
 
#3 ·
If you're really Paranoid, and a storm is coming … Unplug the computer from the wall.
If you're just Cautious … Turn off the surge protector.
If you're Stupid .. Leave the computer running.

But, other things can happen …
I'm running one really good Surge protector that feeds other Surge Protectors.
Then my computer is plugged into a Smart strip/Surge Protector ..
That's hiding behind the main Surge protector.

I usually just turn off the main Surge Protector ..
figuring that the second will stop anything that jumps past the main Surge Protector .. when it's turned off.

My smart strip will turn off all my Peripherals (monitors, printers, desk lamps) .. when the computer is turned off.

I guess this makes me somewhere between Cautious and Paranoid.

I found my Smart Strip at Menards at less than the internet prices.
http://www.smarthomeusa.com/ShopByManufacturer/Bits-Ltd./Item/LCG5/
 
#4 ·
Another point to make, is the quality of surge protectors...

Even if you buy a "really good one", a surge protector has an effective life span, generally 6 months to 2 years depending on your home, the protector and your local power quality/ conditions.

Your power is constantly under dips and spikes that will erode the effectiveness of your surge protector.

Another great solution is a line conditioner... but a little more costly.
 
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