Years ago Shelly brought to my attention that an ungrounded surge protector did not protect. I guess it is nothing more than a bank of outlets. To protect present and future equipment, I am looking for another solution. I would appreciate any suggestions.

Thanks

You're probably in need of a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply), which is a battery-containing device that, in the event of a power surge or outage (or brownout) , can automatically protect and/or shut down your computer safely or allow you time to do it manually.

Check Amazon for prices - you won't need the most expensive models - just one with enough capacity to turn off your computer safely - unless you prefer to keep on surfing in the dark.

A tip: Batteries die after a few years and generally are replaceable at a lower cost than an entirely new UPS.

Jim.

Quote:

QUOTE:
You're probably in need of a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply), which is a battery-containing device that, in the event of a power surge or outage (or brownout) , can automatically protect and/or shut down your computer safely or allow you time to do it manually.

Check Amazon for prices - you won't need the most expensive models - just one with enough capacity to turn off your computer safely - unless you prefer to keep on surfing in the dark.

A tip: Batteries die after a few years and generally are replaceable at a lower cost than an entirely new UPS.

Jim.

Thanks

like kjt sez. I run 4 ups, on two pc's, entertainment setup, and the 3 electronics at the termination of the incoming cable line. It is easy for me to buy batteries and I always keep one or two good spare batteries on hand. Over my 40 years of depending on electric (now age 72) and have seen many electrical bumps and outages. Never been hit by lightning. Have had two electrical utility transformer failures.

I found a UPS in the apartment. It is new condition. Probably never used. I don't have a clue how to use it, whether it is too old, or still working. I could not find a manual on line for it.

Plug in the UPS to see if it will take/hold a charge. If it does, then, once it is charged, plug a lamp into it and see if the lamp light still burns when you unplug the UPS from the outlet.

Note: some of the outlets may be protected by the UPS battery and others may only be surge protected. so if the lamp goes out, try a different outlet on the UPS.

For a downloadable PDF manual, go here: http://powerquality.eaton.com/australia/about-us/sola-manuals.asp?cx=21 Then, scroll down to "Sola 520/530", select the "520" link and save the PDF to your computer.

Jim.

I was doing some online reading. Ungrounded surge protectors are no better than power strips. There is one however that I found that does not need to be grounded. Made in the USA and expensive.

https://zerosurge.com/ungrounded-buildings-older-homes/

From what I was able to comprehend I think that the UPS in question has a lead acid battery. Since it is so old, I am wondering whether it is safe to use. I just sent the company an email.

I think that this is what I really need. https://zerosurge-com.3dcartstores.com/8R15W_p_15.html

Pricey, but far cheaper than rewiring your house.

I'd search for a less expensive solution.

But to fully protect your computer and more, in case of power outage or brownout, you will still need a UPS.

Jim.

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QUOTE:
Pricey, but far cheaper than rewiring your house.

Jim.

Adding a ground conductor, along with one grounded receptacle, to a computer dedicated circuit may be an option.

I just heard from the UPS company. They confirmed the fact that it has a lead acid battery. They said that I should not use it since it needed to be charged at least once a year. I would like to dispose of this in a environmentally responsible way. Any suggestions how I can do this.

LOL Some, perhaps all, auto parts stores require an exchange battery when a new battery is purchased. So, if you're in need of a battery for a vehicle, use the UPS battery as the exchange. I've never had anyone question the exchange battery not being identical to the new battery.

If you don't need a new battery currently, store the UPS battery until there's a sale. Then, place a trickle charger on the new battery, and it will be ready and fully charged when you do need to install it in your vehicle.

Just thinking outside the box. :7

Jim.