Surge protection
With so many devices on the market and priced somewhere between $10 to $40, here are some tips for selecting a reliable one:

• Most of us like the 'power strip' type because it provides multiple outlets. Be aware that a power strip is not necessarily a surge protector, unless it has the 'UL 1449 listed' marking on it.
• Select a known industry manufacturer.
• Look for a multi-year product warranty. Some manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty.
• Make sure that there is an easy and clear way to contact the manufacturer for support.
• Check for a connected equipment 'damage warranty.' Some vendors provide this 'insurance' starting at $2500.
• Select a product that has lights indicating that your wiring is OK (site wiring fault indicator) and the product's protection is OK.
• Look for the UL listing details (on the package or on the product itself) showing voltage ratings of 330V between L-N, L-G and N-G.
• To protect your PC's modem or Fax machine, select a surge protector that has phone line protection.
• For TVs, select a surge protector that incorporates also coax (TV cable) protection.

Battery Backups
These products are recommended for home computers. Their purpose is to keep the power on during short blips, and in case of an outage to allow you to save your work and shut down the computer in an orderly fashion. Prices range from $50 to over $100. The higher priced models usually provide more time on battery. Here are some tips on selecting a high quality one:

• Select a known industry manufacturer.
• Make sure that there is an easy and clear way to contact the manufacturer for support.
• Has built-in surge protection (some units carry surge protection warranties).
• Has a long term 'all inclusive' (including the batteries) warranty.
• Has a visual display to show the device is operating OK.
• Has an audible alarm when the unit goes on battery.
• Has UL 1778 and FCC Part 15 Class B listings