Electrical Connections

Proper electrical connections are very important to the life and usability of your computers and electronics equipment. Below are some common connection problems and the proper method of resolving them. Every month computers are subjected to an average of 120 power related events so computers should be protected by a battery backup or UPS (uninterruptable power supply).

Surge Strips - The most common error when using surge strips is not insuring the strip is truly a surge strip and not just an outlet extension. The strip should be labeled on the bottom as to what it is. A power tap is not a surge strip. Replace any surge strips if you experience a lightning strike as lightning can render the strips protection useless.

Computers - The computer tower and screen should be powered by a surge strip or battery backup. Do not plug unnecessary equipment into the same battery backup that your computer is connected to.

Battery Backups - Should be plugged directly to a properly grounded outlet. Extension cords or surge strips should not be used between the battery backup and the outlet.

Printers - Laser printers should be plugged directly into a outlet. Surge strips can cause problems with many models and makes of printers.  Laser printers cause a large surge of power that a battery backup can't handle. To protect them from lightning you should turn them off at night or unplug them when not in use.

Portable Heaters - Portable heaters should not be plugged into the same power source as your computer. Heaters cause a significant surge of power that can damage sensitive electronics equipment.

Electrical circuits - Wall outlets are part of a circuit of usually several outlets all connected to the same breaker in the buildings power distribution panel. Too many devices plugged into the same electrical circuit can cause overloaded conditions.  If your entire office is serviced by one breaker or circuit then I would recommend a electrician be contacted to add additional circuits.  Typically a maximum of 3 computer stations should be connected to a single circuit. Copy machines, coffee makers, heavy duty shredders, heaters, microwaves, or other high energy use devices should be powered from a separate circuit.