When it comes to using a surge protector with your computer, there is often not a lot of room to work with; however, with a monitor surge protector, often referred to as an under monitor power center, you achieve several advantages over power strip models. This device fits under your monitor and offers easily accessible power switching system at your finger tips. This allows you to control the power flow into each peripheral of the computer system so that you can turn each device on and off as needed. Another perk to using a monitor surge protector is that it takes up minimal space beneath your computer monitor and helps organize all your computer’s cords into a neat stream that doesn’t leave them in a tangle mess on the floor.
A benefit to the multiple switches on a computer power center like this is that you can install it at the main computer in your home and turn it off while leaving a wireless modem powered so that others in the home can continue to use their laptops and access the Internet.
As with any surge protection device you want to look for certain specs to gain the most benefit from your under monitor surge protector, including the Joules rating. If you are not familiar with what this is, it just lets you know how much protection the device offers. It’s not the only yardstick to quality, but the more Joules listed on the device the more protection you will have for your system. For monitor surge protectors the recommended rating is above 800 Joules. If you don’t find a rating on the packaging of the device you are better off not purchasing it.
When it comes to computer peripherals you need more than one outlet and often you need as many as eight. That’s not a problem with these devices. Most have at least six and as mentioned above you have the ability to turn each one on and off so that you can conserve power on devices not being used. This will help eliminate the possible infiltration of power surges on the line. Along with standard plug outlets, under monitor surge protectors can offer RJ11 or RJ45 jacks for phone lines and cable modems. These too are on the backside of the device and easily accessible.
We mentioned how little space the device takes up. While they do take a minimal amount of space, no more than two inches in height at most, they could disturb the positioning of your monitor if you use a hutch-styled desk. While they are called monitor surge protectors, if you have a better place for your device, you should use it. If you choose to use it as a base for your monitor just make sure it is wide enough to accommodate it.
