More often than not, there is a better way. Take that tangle of wires and bulky plugs under or behind your desk/computer workstation for example. Everybody knows what I mean. First of all even the most basic setup includes a PC/CPU, a monitor, a printer, a set of speakers... and so on. Add a modem nearby, a wireless router, perhaps a phone, fax machine, scanner, and we're talking a holy mess of wires, bulky plugs, inflexible power cords, maybe several power strips anchoring this all together. It's a recipe for organization disaster.
The creative folks at PowerSquid have come up with a series of surge protectors that will make sense of your mess, ranging from a basic $18 version (outlet multiplier only - no surge protection) to a $69 top of the line PowerSquid Surge3000 Calamari model. Get it? PowerSquid? Calamari?
The Calamari edition is designed to protect all sorts of electronic equipment from computers and accessories, to home theater electronics including TVs, DVD players, and more.
The device is truly something to look at -- living up to its "breakthrough cephalopod design." There are six "tentacles" of varying lengths (2 @ 6"; 2 @ 8"; and 2 @ 10") and an 8' cord to plug into the wall outlet. The tentacles accept standard three-prong plugs. The cord ends in a 360-degree swiveling flat profile plug. Very convenient indeed.
Once you plug it in three different LEDs light up showing you that the device is powered up, that it's protecting the equipment, and that the surge protector is grounded. Speaking of lighting up, the two 10-inch tentacles are illuminated, which makes them easier to find in the dark.
One unique feature of this top of the line model is an audible alarm that sounds when the device has been tripped, essentially letting you know when it's time to replace the unit.
As far as the speeds and feeds numbers the PowerSquid Surge3000 Calamari edition, here's the skinny, straight from the manufacturer's site:
· 3240Joules w/ Ultra-MOV™ technology
· 330V Clamping
· 58dB Purestream™ EMI/RFI power filtering
· $500,000 Limited Connected Equipment Warranty
· Tripwire™ Circuit
· 15 Amp Breaker
The Calamari also includes protection for cable and DSL lines.
From the moment I saw the unit to the moment I plugged in my six devices I was very pleased with the PowerSquid Surge3000 Calamari edition. At nearly 70 dollars it might be a bit pricey at first blush, however you certainly get your money's worth in style, convenience, practicality, and a half-million dollar warranty protecting your valued electronic gear.
If you are interested in your own PowerSquid, go to CableOrganizer.com for more on how to get your own Calamari.
