What are surge protectors? Are they really needed? Thanks.

You don't know what a surge protector is . It protects you electrical equipment against power surges that you might get from something such as an electrical storm.

I don't use a surge protector, and I don't know anyone who does. I also don't know anyone who has ever suffered from not having one.

Saying that, I would speak to your parents because you might find you live somewhere which is more prone to surges.



If he did, he wouldn't be posting here.

Take a look at this article to get a better understanding of what a surge protector is, how it works, and why it's important to use one for your computer.

I use a surge protector for my computer devices, stereo, and television. People say that it's not too important because surges are rare, but I say my computer is more important so why take the risk? You can pick them up almost anywhere now these days and along with the protection from surges, they provide multiple outlets which is always a necessity around a computer desk.

I also doubt that his parents would know if their area is highly prone to electrical surges. That is unless they are electrical engineers or that information is readily available. I don't know of anyone who doesn't use a surge protector to plug their computer in.

Edit: Forgot link.

My uncle works with Nortel telephone systems, and he had to replace a lot of the systems that were struck by a surge during a thunder storm, around Montreal, he told each and every single owner that it could have been prevented with a surge protector.

Surge protectors are good ideas. Most are simple power strips with a fuse--they work fine most of the time. Anyways--general idea is that the surge of energy trips the fuse, protecting whatever you plug in from permanent damage. For mobile laptops it's not that important, really. For desktops, they're quite important. On the other hand--if you have an old and slow computer, I can see a reason to try to take it OFF the surge protector and put it directly in the wall. If you're that desperate to replace a computer, get a job.

Many of you guys are talking about Surge Protectors that plug into outlets I believe. There are Surge Protectors that go directly on your Electrical Panel and protect your whole house instead of just one area. They are about $300 I believe and can save everything you own.

I'd recommend to get one - it's a small investment that can save a large invesment (TV, computers, stereo, appliances, etc).

~Bcloutier~

I got this thing, kind of like a surge protector. Its like this fuse thing so when it overloads it burns out so you have to turn somethings off and replace the fuse. But still, better be safe than sorry. Any ideas on a good Surge Protector? Thanks

Like I said, you can pick them up almost anywhere now a days. I bought mine at Walmart. They aren't expensive either.