Surge Protector

When it comes to cable line surge protection you want a cable modem surge protector that can handle line noise and filter it properly. You want your cable modem protected from power surges that can get into the line. When there is a lightning strike or another significant spike in electrical current, the excess energy will find alternate paths to your electronics if the main line is protected. Unfortunately, the only alternative route is through your cable lines. Entry through this port can do as much damage to your equipment as a surge through the power line. In fact, the damage can be even more crippling as it can destroy a cable modem and create line noise that can disrupt data paths.

If you reside in an area where lightning storms are common, you need a surge protector on coaxial connections. Typically, these are compatible with DSL connections, too. Transient energy can cause equipment to malfunction and also destroy it if there is enough of a surge. High risk areas, such as rural areas prone to lightning storms, are in greatest need for this kind of surge protection device. You can minimize this risk with a proper surge suppressor on data lines. These “back door” attacks frequently happen when there is no other course for the energy to go. Coupled with the low voltage transmissions that already travel these paths, your modem equipment is easily prone to EMI and RFI devastation.

Data lines protected by RG6 coaxial cables are the most reliable. Often these are paired with F-type connectors for coaxial connections. These cables are the most secure from power surges and as long as your line has grounding protection, you will not have anything to worry about. Without proper grounding however, your cable modem surge protector is useless. You can find out how to properly ground your outlets and coaxial lines by visiting the US National Fire Protection Association. Review their National Electric Code (NEC) for the information.

Without a grounded coaxial cable the discharge of power will only find another path in your lines which means it will eventually find an unprotected pathway, whether that is along the same cable or through your home’s power lines. A grounded line will absorb the runaway current and dispel any threat.

When it comes down to it, you want an appropriate surge protector that meets your equipment’s specific requirements. You can check with your local provider to get the specs of your particular cable modem to find out how much clamping voltage you need and how much bandwidth is sent along the lines. The last line of defense is to purchase a cable modem surge protector with the highest clamping voltage, Joules rating and voltage suppressor rating you can find. The best place to start would be with APC, a renowned manufacturer of surge protection devices.

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