Why Your Computer Needs a Data Cable Surge Protector

A common and familiar sight is the surge protector sitting under your desk. When purchasing a computer, this device is often added on because of the protection it offers. In a nutshell, the function of the surge protector is to protect your computer’s and other items’ power systems from a possible electrical surge by either absorbing or deflecting any excess electricity. Lesser known, however, is the detrimental effect power surges can have on data cables. Data, while quite different from power, is transmitted in essentially the same way: voltage is sent through cables from one piece of equipment to another, where it is then translated into actual data. Because of this, power surges can also adversely affect your data by disrupting the data flow, meaning that a device connected to a data cable (often one that’s not meant to handle a lot of voltage) can malfunction or fail. This problem can result in data loss and overall damage to your internal systems, a similar effect to that of a surge through power cables.

However, there are devices that protect your data connections from electrical surge damage in much the same way as surges in power cables are prevented: lowering the magnitude of the electrical surge by either reflection or absorption. Data cable surge protectors activate when a set voltage is exceeded. In other words, when a power surge occurs, the devices trigger and protect your valuable data and equipment. Manufacturers like Cylix or APC feature many different models of data cable surge protectors to help protect your system from power surges. The importance of data cable surge protectors is often overlooked in comparison to the more common power line surge protectors. In order to provide the best protection for both your data and your computer, you may want to consider investing in a Data Cable Surge Protector. If interested, feel free to contact MainBrain via phone at 410.590.4400 or on the web for technical advice concerning proper installation procedure.

Tags: data cable, data cable surge protectors, surge protectors