An expensive big screen TV, computer, cable box, or home theater set up can become toast in a nano second in a power surge, and the phenomenon happens all the time. A power surge happens when something, any number of things, actually, boosts or spikes the amount of electrical current coming across the power grid. Connected equipment can fry without warning.
Electrical storms cause surges, but so can home air conditioning or other high power devices kicking on and off. Flaws or malfunctions in the power company's equipment or system are typical causes, as well. A surge may cause no harm -- life goes on as usual, but sometimes, the surge melts or fuses parts of TVS, stereos, computers, or other equipment. The damage is not repairable, the only solution is an expensive purchase of new stuff.
There are anti-surge devices readily available, and, as with any electronics, the quality runs hot and cold.
Accell, a company that specializes in consumer level power management, home theater, and audio or video cables has a power bar/surge protector that's smart and green. Their GreenGenius line promotes conservation by turning off when connected equipment is not in use. It monitors proper grounding. GreenGenius is capable of reducing line noise, or static, in current running to TVs and home theater components, too.
How GreenGenius Performed
The tested power strip had ten electric receptacles, a three way telephone splitter, five receptacles that automatically shut off when the plugged in equipment is not in use, and five manually controlled outlets. It's footprint is no smaller or more streamlined than most protectors, but it did appear to be lighter weight. The unit, as with most power bars, tended to not lay flat on a surface, tipping when cords were plugged in.
With a TV antenna, the noise reduction feature's effect was noticeable -- video was clearer, audio sharper. The unit was not tested with cable or satellite TV. Users have tons of control over power delivery through on and off functions. Having ten receptacles, or outlets, is convenient, especially for home theater setups where many components are used in a small area.
The GreenGenius unit is easy to use, delivers what it claims to deliver, and is priced fairly at well below $50. The power cord is long, about four feet, making it easy to locate the power bar between a wall outlet and the target equipment. Sleek and not unattractive, GreenGenius seems to be a good value for office or living room.
About Uninterruptable Power Supplies and Saving Energy
In general, GreenGenius is described as an uninterruptable power supply. such devices have been around for a long time, but are just now morphing into the realm of green living and energy conservation. Every valuable piece of electronic equipment should have such protection. Simple devices, like this one, are good solutions for home use. The main manufacturers are APC, Toshiba, Accell, and Cyberpower.
In the tech news section of ReviewSurgeProtector.com there are some more detailed technical specifications related to exactly how GreenGenius conserves power. The article talks about Accell's expertise, as well, giving an overview of the firm. Accell, says ReviewSurgeProtector has a team of designers and design scientists that stands poised to place the firm as a world leader in their field.
Maryan Pelland - A professional, established freelance writer, I've earned the moniker, "expert" in technology for baby boomers. I have deep experience in ...
