Power Supply Filter

[Mobius1]

Does anybody have any information on what these devices are called? They're not surge protectors. They are useful for computers; a small device that plugs into an electrical outlet that you then can plug your PC plug into. It apparently filters out slight current changes and can help protect sensitive electrical equipment i.e computers.

[mikewall01]

You have to be referring to a surge (or spike) protector. Available from most computer outlets like PC World, Dixons, Currys etc. Can't think of anything else that will protect against current surges.

[Mobius1]

Well, I thought that too. I have a Micromark surge protecting multi-socket adapter but this is not the same thing. The filter device I'm referring to actually costs in the region of �90 to �100. Surge protecting plugs are available for far less than that, so it can't be the same thing.

[mikewall01]

I use Micromark too. There are many similar devices that cost much more. This is still a rip off society. Can't think what else you are referring to. Your Micromark device comes with a pretty sound warranty. What else you want to protect against?

[bignairy]

Its not "current" changes you need to worry about, its voltage surges (although these can be caused by something else on the mains suddenly stopping drawing current). A decent anti-surge device should protect you against these spikes. You might be referring to a UPS (Uninteruptible Power Supply). These will protect the PC from crashing if the mains drops out altogether. They are quite expensive though.

[Mobius1]

I've found out what it is now. Apparently it's called a Harmonics Filter, it's designed to be used in conjunction with devices that are sensitive to 'power quality'. They're available from most of the companies that produce Uninterruptable Power Supplies. Thanks for your help though guys!