The surge protector is an essential piece of equipment for any gaming PC. It protects your machine from power surges, which can cause data and system losses, decreased performance and can even damage components and irreparable damage to your system. With so much at stake, choosing the right surge protector for your gaming PC is a must. Here’s what you need to know before making the purchase.
The first factor to consider is amperage. This is the amount of current the surge protector can handle before switching off the power. Higher amperage will allow you to plug in multiple devices at once and still get the same protection. Some surge protectors are available with adjustable amperage, allowing the user to adjust the protection level for added security.
Next, you’ll want to look for protection against transient voltage spikes. These spikes occur when lightning strikes near the house, or when a high electrical current passes through the power supply. The surge protector absorbs the energy of these spikes, protecting your gaming PC from data and system losses.
When selecting a surge protector, look for high Joules ratings. This rating is a measure of the amount of surge protection the device provides. It’s important to look for the highest Joules ratings possible, as this will help protect your gaming PC from data loss during a surge.
Finally, consider the ports. Many surge protectors offer additional USB or Ethernet ports, allowing you to plug in multiple peripherals or devices at once. Depending on your gaming setup, you might find this additional connectivity very useful.
Extended Protection
In addition to the protection from surges, some surge protectors offer additional features. Look for surge protectors that offer EMI/RFI filtering. This technology helps reduce interference from indirect power surges as well as electromagnetic or radio frequency emissions, both of which can cause performance issues with your gaming PC.
Some surge protectors include built-in status lights that will let you know when a surge has occurred, and if it has been blocked. This feature is useful for seeing if your surge protector is still protecting your gaming PC or if it needs to be replaced.
A surge protector with Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) is another helpful option to consider. AVR will send a low voltage output to the connected device when voltage from the power supply dips too low, helping to maintain a steady power supply to the gaming PC.
Another feature to look for is overload protection. This will shut off power to the surge protector if too much current is drawn, protecting your gaming PC from a potentially dangerous situation.
Last but not least, consider surge protectors with warranties. If a surge protector fails to protect your gaming PC, a warranty will cover the cost of repair or replacement. Make sure the warranty is for the length of time you plan to keep the surge protector.
Installation Considerations
When it comes to installing a surge protector, there are a few things that need to be taken into consideration. First, determine how long your gaming PC will be in use. If it will be in use for long periods of time, you’ll need a surge protector with a higher amperage rating.
Next, look at the location of where the surge protector will be installed. Keep in mind the distance from the power supply, as too much distance can lead to voltage drop. If the surge protector is too far away from the power supply, it might not be able to provide the necessary protection.
The last installation point to consider is the quality of the surge protector. Make sure to read reviews from other users and look for certifications from trusted standards organizations to ensure the surge protector meets the necessary safety and quality standards.
Cost and Durability
When it comes to cost, it’s important to consider your budget. There is a wide range of surge protectors available, from basic models to more advanced and expensive models. Keep in mind that the more expensive models will offer better protection and more features.
Durability is another factor to consider. You want to make sure the surge protector is long-lasting and can handle multiple power surges over its lifetime. Look for surge protectors with good build quality, as they will likely last longer and serve their purpose better.
Finally, consider the warranty. Most reputable manufacturers will offer one or two-year warranties on their surge protectors. This added peace of mind is worth considering if the product is expensive or if it will be used for a long period of time.
Conclusion
Choosing the right surge protector for your gaming PC is very important, as it can help protect your system from power surges from outside sources. Make sure to consider the amperage, transient voltage protection, Joules ratings, ports, EMI/RFI filtering and overload protection when selecting the right surge protector for your gaming PC. Also, keep in mind the cost, installation considerations and durability when making the purchase. Finally, look for a warranty from the manufacturer to ensure you get the best protection possible. With these tips, you can find the perfect surge protector for your gaming PC that will provide effective protection and keep your system safe.
