question for any electricians/computer guys
should i use an isolated ground circuit for my expensive stereo/ computer system and how should i wire it into my 1900’s home with a new service panel. do i need an expensive power bar to run all of the stuff? and what is the best way to protect all my gear(which right now is just plugged in to two outlets on two seperate circuits). i can run a new circuit for electronics in the entire house(open basement), what do you recommend?
Replies
Install a dedicated circuit from the main panel for your computer and all of its peripherals if there is any doubt about the integrity of the wiring and your computer is handling information important to you. Don't bother with an isolated ground as it offers nothing over a dedicated circuit.
If you just play hearts and visit bulletin boards and have a cheap computer no extra protection is necessary but a cheap surge suppressor might still be a decent idea. Your call.
If your power is less than consistent, usually due to utility switching or storms, add a Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS) plugged into a quality surge suppressor. Not the other way around. Let the cheaper suppressor protect the expensive UPS. Either way a good surge suppressor, about $20 to $45, is a good investment for any machine worth saving.
If you want extra protection, for the whole house not only for the computer, install a surge block in the main panel. A good one runs $25 to $50 and is a good first line of defense. This can add life to all of your electronics.