OTHER TECH

Splurge on a Surge

It will take some research to find the right surge protector for your needs. Steer away from cheap models and ones designed for PCs, since home theater gear has different power requirements. (For instance, a big TV or amp draws much more power on startup than a PC does.) Here are some shopping tips:

•Make sure the suppressor is UL 1449 Second Edition (or Revision 2) listed, and that the listing is for a transient voltage surge suppressor. (I've come across units that claimed a UL listing, but it was only for the power cord!) If it's been listed as a TVSS, it should show the clamping voltage (or Suppressed Voltage Rating), which is the amount of voltage it lets through before the protection kicks in. Don't buy anything that admits more than 400 volts, and a 330-volt rating is better. Also, look for a surge protector with a short response time - 1 nanosecond or less is best - or its protection will kick in after the damage has already been done. •Surge protectors are like prizefighters: even if they don't receive a knockout punch, the accumulation of jabs and body punches will take its toll. Repeated surges will eventually cause the unit's MOV to weaken and fail. Make sure the surge protector has either an indicator light or an audible prompt that lets you know when it's ready to throw in the towel and yell, "No mas." •Because they're conductive lines that can also carry surges and sags, phone and cable lines also need protection. If the device has phone-line protection, it should be UL 497 rated. •Buy from a company you or your dealer or installer trusts, and one that has earned a reputation for making good surge-protection devices. Carefully ready the warranties to find out if the company really stands behind its products.