Plug Strips & Surge Protectors
answer
A guide to the quality and performance differences of a generic surge protector strip versus a proper line protection device for laser machines.
Preface: This is a guide to the quality and performance differences of a generic surge protector strip versus a proper line protection device.
Things to note
Not all surge protectors are the same. Please read this article for more details. When selecting a protector, be sure to get one with the proper plug (15amp plugs work in 20amp receptacles but not the other way around). Also note that surge protectors are often multioutlet....this does not mean you should plug in a bunch of other devices with your machine on its dedicated circuit.
From a laser machine standpoint, we have machines that draw 3amps and some that draw 18amps, so each application will be slightly different.
External Reference
Rather than trying to re-write a white paper about surge protectors, please see this link here for a "Everything you wanted to know and more about surge protectors". Be sure to look at the "What to Look For" section that talks about the Joule rating (Higher is better).
Still stuck?
No bots, no runaround. Talk to a U.S.-based laser tech who knows your machine inside out.