Some computers are connected to the network directly through a wall outlet. All experts unanimously argue about the inadmissibility of such an action due to constant power surges. To protect the personal computer from these unwanted overloads, you need to use network filters. Depending on their type, they are able to remove power surges. As a result, the processor can last for many years and not burn out. In addition, the surge protector for the computer protects the connected speakers, monitor, printer and other devices from loads.
Externally, the surge protector resembles a conventional extension cord, consisting of sockets and switches. However, it is able to smooth out jumps and remove interference that forms on the network.
Why do I need a surge protector?
Many people ask questions about the surge protector: βWhat is it and what is it for?β To do this, get acquainted with the theory. The current flowing through the network of the house is variable and is classified as sinusoidal. This name comes from the word "sinusoid", which looks like a wavy line. The voltage in the network, like the wave, is constantly decreasing and increasing. Smooth oscillations occur in the range from β300 to +300 volts.
If you look at the parameters of the current in the outlet, you can see sharp surges and large voltage amplitudes. All these impulses are able to make household appliances in the apartment completely unsuitable for further operation. Most often, audio centers, televisions and, of course, computers suffer.
How to choose a surge protector?
To protect the computer in the house, you need to choose a high-quality surge protector. The price of an ordinary model varies around 100 rubles. However, they cannot guarantee a high degree of protection for a personal computer. Hops in the network sometimes are quite high, so you need to choose a more powerful network filter. βWhat is it and how to choose it?β - a question that interests many.
The cost of such a device will definitely be above 100 rubles. When choosing a line filter in the store, you need to familiarize yourself with its parameters indicated by the manufacturer on the package. As a rule, it refers to the length of the cable, the voltage of the impulse noise, the maximum limiter, as well as the number of outlets available. The cable size must be selected based on the conditions in which the computer is used. If it is far from the outlet, consider this and choose a larger cable. The main thing in this matter is to securely hide it. Needless to say, damage to the cable can lead to a short circuit in the whole house. Also, if you pour something on it, it will cause the system to crash. Given all of the above, it is better to choose a larger network cable and install it closer to the wall. Moreover, access to it should be limited. Using stationery clamps, the remaining cable must be collected and secured together. In this case, it will occupy a minimum of space and can be absolutely safely used. Manufacturers usually produce cables ranging in size from 2 to 5 meters. In most cases, this is enough to connect all devices. The impulse noise parameter ranges from 3500 to 10000 A. The best line filter will have a high rate. When buying a surge protector, you need to pay attention to its maximum current not lower than 10 A.
Reasons for power surges
There are a large number of reasons that, ultimately, lead to sharp unwanted jumps to the surge protector. βWhat is it and how to deal with it?β - a question that interests many. First of all, they are caused by the use of power consumers. With their frequent use, overloads occur, and the voltage starts to jump. The second most common reason is no longer related to human activities. We are talking about atmospheric overvoltage. Unfortunately, the weather makes its own adjustments and this has to be reckoned with. In addition, surges can occur due to malfunctions in the operation of transformer substations. As a rule, short circuits occur in them, which lead to complex processes. All this is reflected in the work of the general network at home.
Network Fluctuations
Fluctuations in the network are a complex function. It can be represented as a set of sinusoids. Each of them has its own frequency. In the general system, it sets a specific amplitude; therefore, sinusoids in the aggregate form a wave. In order for the voltage to be stable, you need only one sine wave, which has a frequency of 50 hertz. In this case, the amplitude will be at around 310 volts. The task in this sense is to eliminate all other sinusoids that affect the network. To do this, they need to be thoroughly suppressed and blocked access to the electrical receiver.
Aperiodic interference
There are also aperiodic interference that affects the voltage in the system. Unlike sinusoids, they are difficult to predict and block. In general, aperiodic interference leads to impulse surges. In the system, they arise and subside in a very short period of time. Many surge protectors can deal with such surges and suppress them.
What is a surge protector?
Resistors are in no way associated with the type of current that flows through them. However, the inductance strongly feels the influence of the voltage frequency. The thing is the
reactance of the capacitance. When a current is supplied to the coil with a high frequency, its resistance is constantly growing. This effect is called inductive and ultimately, it is taken as a basis in the production of line filters. As a result, it is able to cope with sinusoids of small and large periods, which lead to high-frequency interference. For the best effect, two coils are used. They equally take on the load from the sinusoids. One coil is in the neutral conductor, and the second is in phase. Depending on the model of the line filter, the inductance is different. One coil is capable of withstanding 50 to 200 ΞΌH.
Low Frequency Interference
Another problem is interference that has a low frequency. To suppress them, coils are also used, but with active resistance. Additionally, line filters can be equipped with several resistors that can take on a significant load. However, it should be noted that the resistance parameters of the resistors should not be at a high level. This is due to a voltage drop in the overall system. When the resistor has a high resistance, the mains voltage will drop significantly. On average, manufacturers produce them with parameters of 0.5 ohms. The main thing is that this figure does not exceed 1 ohm.
Filter APC P5BV-RS
The surge protector for the computer APC P5BV-RS is able to cope with pulses that can be caused by lightning strikes. Any overvoltage always leads to damage to the computer, and as a result, all information from it will be permanently deleted. The APC P5BV-RS surge protector is able to successfully suppress minor impulses in the network, which, ultimately, also affect the operation of all devices in the house. The term of successful operation of the computer can be greatly extended if you immediately install a surge protector. APC has long begun its development in the field of pulse suppression at different frequencies. To date, it has become possible even to remove interference associated with the telephone network. Computers are a sensitive technique that must be constantly protected from all jumps.
Model APC P5BV-RS has as many as 5 outlets. This is enough to connect a computer with speakers and a wireless mouse. In addition, you can use the remaining sockets for copier and printer. The maximum load current is at a limit of 10 A. The frequency of the alternating voltage is 50 Hz. The length of the cord is 2 meters. This is enough to install it in a convenient place and not worry about the safety of using a surge protector. Additionally, the APC P5BV-RS surge protector is equipped with coaxial line protection. As a result, the filter is able to cope simultaneously with different jumps. All technology lies in the use of television antennas. The width of the filter is 7 cm and the height is 3.8 cm with a weight of only 0.7 kg. It should also be noted that APC provides a long warranty period for its products, which indicates great quality and reliability.
Filter Defender DFS 501/505
The surge protector Defender DFS 501/505 is designed to eliminate network surges. All devices in this series have the ability to suppress low-frequency waves and impulse noise. To eliminate surges with high frequency, a gas spark gap is provided. For convenience, the surge protector is equipped with two ports to which you can connect any gadgets. Without using a computer, you can easily recharge the player. All devices that are connected are not affected by surges and fluctuations due to current protection. Equipped with a power strip Defender DFS 501/505 six sockets. Manufacturers paid special attention to security, so the surge protector is made of non-combustible plastic. Plus, it is shockproof. Additionally, child protection is provided. Safety shutters allow even near small children to use the surge protector safely. The outlet located near the switch is designed only for large adapters
A distinctive feature of this model is the high level of dissipated voltage. Additionally, protection against impulse noise is provided. For convenience, there is a special indicator that indicates the inclusion of the filter, as well as the degree of protection.
Features Defender DFS 501/505
The rated voltage of the device at 220 V is 50 Hz. The maximum power that it can withstand is more than 2000 watts. The load current is at 10 A, and the dissipated energy is 525 J. This model has three shielded circuits that act as a stabilizer. The line filter operates in the range from 0.16 to 95 MHz. Plus, an additional fuse is provided, which is installed separately. Its advantage is that it is heat resistant. Also, its operation is fully automated, therefore, failures are excluded. The ports in the surge protector can withstand voltage of 5 V, and the maximum possible current is allowed at 1000 mA. Additionally, a separate protection is provided for these ports, which has a restoring effect and can be used many times.
Model Defender ES
Defender ES is the best surge protector that can protect your computer from small outages. The advantage of this model is its efficiency. If in a house where household appliances are used, there are rarely interruptions in power plants, then Defender ES is a good choice. It is perfect for a computer or a simple kettle. The line filter circuit is made of non-combustible plastic. All contacts are made of copper. The compactness of this model is good. With a voltage of 220 V, the device gives out 50 Hz, which is a good indicator. The maximum load that can be applied is in the range of 2200 watts. All this can significantly protect the computer from short-wave interference.
Features Defender ES
The maximum permissible load is up to 10 A. The dissipated energy does not exceed 120 J. Defender ES has only one protective circuit. In addition, there is an automatic fuse that is securely integrated into the switch. The length of the line filter can be from 20 to 30 cm. The cords in the kit are of various sizes: from 3 to 5 meters. Summing up, you can notice certain advantages of this model. Its cost is 150 rubles. However, everyone should not advise the Defender ES line voltage filter. Ultimately, he is not able to protect the computer from all the differences that happen on the network. Since the value of the equipment is much higher than the cost of the surge protector, you should not save on it. It is better to take a reliable surge protector of a proven brand and not be afraid of lightning and failures in transformer substations.
Maxxtro PRO PWS 05K-10F
So, we clarified the question: surge protector - what is it. He is interested in many. The filter specified in this section is also well suited for computers and laptops. This model can block a lot of interference and eliminate most impulses. Additionally, short circuit protection is provided. An LED indicator is available. The case is fully shockproof and made of high quality plastic that does not burn. It is also possible to install a power strip on the wall in the room. Under heavy loads, when the line filter circuit burns out, the contacts are disconnected, and the pulse does not reach the device. For more convenience, 5 outlets are provided. The length of the cord is as much as 5 meters. The maximum load current is at 10 A.