As the number of smart devices continues to increase in our homes, so does the risk of expensive power surge events. Every time there’s a blackout or lightning strike nearby, there’s a chance a sudden voltage spike will damage your sensitive electronic appliances.
A power surge is a Transient Overvoltage. This is a massive spike in the power supply over an extremely short period. A strong power surge will quickly destroy your Smart TV, Fridge or computers, costing tens of thousands of dollars. This can happen when devices are plugged in and ‘turned off’ or in standby mode.
Even if your equipment appears to be intact, repeated surges from brownouts will lead to the deterioration of electronic components. Consumers should also note that cheap power boards with a trip switch aren’t the solution to surge events.
Last week Belkin released a pretty affordable series of Surge Protection power boards with different levels of protection. They also have warranty coverage of up to $70,000 if a device is destroyed while plugged into one of their boards.
They come in 1, 4, 6 and 8 outlet options, delivering up to 1800 joule ratings, fast charging dual USB-C Power Delivery Ports, Hardworking MOV’s (Metal Oxide Varistors), and 6 or 11 point safety systems.
High-capacity metal oxide varistors (MOVs) absorb damaging excess energy and release it as heat to protect your connected device .
“Surge Protection is one of our most important categories in this region,” aid Jamie Laing-Reece, Head of Product Management, Belkin ANZ.
“We know that Australian and New Zealand consumers want their key home technology to be protected, and it’s now more important than ever with the cost of connected devices on the rise. Storms can be wild and unpredictable, so it’s vital that consumers can rely on a brand like ours for enhanced protection and peace of mind.”
NEW BELKIN SURGE PROTECTORS
1 Outlet Surge Protector
· 1,800 joules of surge protection
· $30,000 Warranty for connected devices
4 Outlet Surge protector
· 525 joules of surge protection
· $40,000 Warranty for connected devices
6 Outlet Surge protector
· 650 joules of surge protection
· $50,000 Warranty for connected devices
8 Outlet Surge protector
· 900 joules of surge protection
· $70,000 Warranty for connected devices
A built-in indicator light shows you that your protection is active and working, and lets you know if it’s time to change your surge protector. A recessed power switch offers security against accidental shut off.
In the 4, 6 and 8 outlet models, the USB-C ports offer Power Delivery for faster charging with compatible devices. Onboard PPS (Programmable Power Supply) technology detects the connected device and negotiates the optimal amount of power needed for an ideal fast charge. Up to to 30W of power is shared across the two ports.
An 11-point safety system ensures your device is plugged into a protector that offers overvoltage, over-temperature, overload, over-current, short-circuit and clamping voltage defence. It offers 3-line AC protection (ground, neutral, and line) and is made from material that passes a Glow Wire Test at 850℃. An indicator light shows when surge protection is active, and a warning light shows when the power coming through is not grounded.
PRICE AND AVAILABILITY
You’ll find the new Belkin surge protectors at Belkin’s website or any of the top electronics stores.
1 Outlet Surge Protector $34.95 AUD/ $39.95 NZD
4 Outlet Surge Protector $79.95 AUD/ $89.95 NZD
6 Outlet Surge Protector $89.95 AUD/ $109.95 NZD
8 Outlet Surge Protector $99.95 AUD/ $129.95 NZD