Do I need a surge protector? And…why?

Oh yes! Whether you paid $500 or $5,000 for your computer, it’s too much to lose – especially when that loss is preventable. Take into consideration the value of your data – your address lists, documents, letters to clients, mailing lists – how daunting is the thought of re-creating all that, even if you DO have a backup?

You may think your computer is in danger only during an electrical storm, but anything that interrupts the electrical circuit and then starts the current back again can fry your components. Something as simple as someone turning on an appliance that’s plugged into the same circuit (especially a high voltage one such as a hair dryer, electric heater, or air conditioner) can cause a surge, or a surge may be caused by a tree limb touching a power line. All summer long we see small (“The power’s off!” “The power’s on!” “Oh, the power’s off again!”) power interruptions – and these small interruptions can often be more damaging to your equipment than a full power outage. If you have a full power outage, you may experience a surge when the electricity comes back on – imagine how many surges you’re experiencing when the power can’t decide if it’s going to stay on or off.

A simple answer to help safeguard against this type of loss it to buy a surge protector. A surge protector is different from a power strip – a power strip simply gives you more outlets, a surge protector helps smooth out the spikes in the electrical system. Make sure you purchase a surge protector that is rated for computer equipment (it will tell you on the packaging).


E-Mail Tip of the Month:
E-mail Forwarding Tips
· When forwarding e-mail, be sure that all recipients need to receive the message.
· Before clicking the Send button, always review whether a message’s contents are appropriate for each listed recipient (read your forwarded message fully before sending!).
· Always think before responding to emotionally charged e-mails (if you respond at all). Calm behavior can diffuse the situation and avoid an ugly scene.

~J~