A cable surge protector is an important item overlooked by many people for the protection of their sensitive electronic devices, even more so if the device uses a coaxial connection. Often people realize that they need a surge protector, but choose inexpensive devices that offer little protection for expensive computers, stereo systems, televisions and other coaxial-oriented electric products. Understanding their purpose will help people understand the need to invest in the correct level of protection for their electronic investments.
People assume electric current is at a stable consistent rate, if they think of it at all, but power spikes occur randomly and for several reasons, one being a lightning strike that can travel through cable and telephone lines. These power surges will overpower circuitry. Components may become over stressed, damaged or destroyed resulting in electronics requiring repair or replacement.
To protect these devices a surge protector with cable connections is used between the cable cord and the electronic device. The unit acts as a buffer diverting current from your devices to a grouding area. Contained within these cable surge protectors is a Metal Oxide Varistor that captures and traps the excessive energy flow. Commonly called MOVs, they provide the protection for devices. Unfortunately, MOVs are affected by each power spike they absorb and will degrade with time, thus rendering any cable modem surge protector useless.
An indicator light is a necessary part of these devices. This light will notify the owner whether the device is functioning correctly. Should the MOV fail and a user is unaware, an overflow of current could cause the strip to short resulting in a fire. Also a good protector should have a circuit breaker which will shut off power to the device in the event a sizable power surge occurs.
Price range will depend on the level of protection. At the top of the range of any surge protector for cable connectors is the Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) which many people prefer because while it’s not necessarily a surge protector, it does offer surge protection and also allows a few minutes of back up time for files and other important operations when a power outage occurs. Most people will choose more affordable devices, but the point to remember is, the cheaper the cable surge protector, the less protection you have for your expensive electronic equipment.
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