surge suppressor (1 Viewer)

[R.J.Kolman]

Hi HTF: This is my first post on the forum. I am considering purchasing a surge suppressor for my new Hi-def TV and 5.1 sound surround system. The TV is on the Dish sat. system. I am very confused about what type of surge suppressor and the wide range of brands and prices available. Could anyone give me some advice as to what I need and a particular brand? Troutdog

 

[Lew Crippen]

Welcome to the forum Ronald.

What you need depends in large part in the power supply in your area.

If your power supply is reasonably stable (as it is in much of the US), a simple surge protector will suffice. Just be sure to purchase one that is robust enough to protect all of your equipment. Also make sure that it has connections for the coax from your satellite dish. Run the coax feed from the dish through the surge protector before connecting it to the Dish receiver. This will help prevent electrical surges due to lighting from frying your equipment.

If the power in your area fluctuates from time to time (mini brownouts) you should consider purchasing a voltage regulator (including a surge protector) instead of a surge protector. And if you experience power outages (especially frequent on again, off again types) buying a UPS (with a voltage regulator and surge protector) will help protect your equipment, as well as allowing you to continue to watch a movie during a brief outage. Of course you should power down all your equipment if the power stays off for longer than a brief period.

 

[Lew Crippen]

Both Belkin and APC make a range of devices, one that will surely meet your needs at a reasonable price. There are other companies that also make good, reliable products. Just stay away from the heavily marketed, high-priced brands.

 

[R.J.Kolman]

Thank you for your help. I am currently looking at a suppressor mabe by Tripp as well as the Belkin you suggested. The Tripp suppressor has numerous connections for audio/visual equipment and satellite connections. However, what do you mean by "robust" in your reply? R.J.K.

 

[Lew Crippen]

I was referring to how much variation in voltage (how much the unit can boost or reduce voltage) that any unit will handle (look at the specs of each unit), how well the unit handles spikes (surge surpression measured in terms of Joules), the number of inputs for your equipment, the amount of power the unit will manage (mesuared in terms of VA (or KVA) and watts—this is important for the amount and size of equipment you have connected) and the size of the battery.