Setting up a power strip is a straightforward process that allows you to expand the number of electrical outlets available for your devices. While basic setup involves simply plugging it in and connecting your devices, understanding different types, especially advanced power strips, can optimize power usage and safety.
How to Set Up a Power Strip
Setting up a power strip involves a few simple steps, ensuring your devices are powered safely and efficiently.
Basic Power Strip Setup
For standard power strips or surge protectors, the setup is quick and easy:
- Unpack and Inspect: Carefully remove the power strip from its packaging. Check for any visible damage to the cord, plug, or outlets. Do not use a damaged power strip.
- Choose a Suitable Location:
- Flat, Stable Surface: Place the power strip on a flat, stable surface like a floor or desk.
- Avoid Obstructions: Ensure the cord is not kinked, pinched, or run under carpets, which can cause overheating and fire hazards.
- Ventilation: Do not cover the power strip, as this can trap heat.
- Away from Water: Keep it clear of sinks, bathtubs, or any sources of moisture.
- Plug in the Power Strip: Insert the power strip's plug firmly into a grounded wall outlet. Avoid plugging a power strip into another power strip (known as "daisy-chaining"), as this can overload circuits and create fire risks.
- Connect Your Devices: Plug the cords of your electronic devices (e.g., computer, monitor, phone charger) into the available outlets on the power strip.
- Turn On (If Applicable): If your power strip has an on/off switch, press it to the "on" position. Many power strips also have an indicator light to show they are receiving power and, if it's a surge protector, that its surge protection is active.
Setting Up Advanced Power Strips (APS)
Advanced Power Strips (APS), also known as smart power strips or "master/accessory" power strips, offer energy-saving benefits by automatically controlling power to connected devices. These are particularly useful for home entertainment systems or computer workstations.
The key feature of an Advanced Power Strip, as highlighted in the reference, is its ability to automatically switch off accessory devices when the master device is turned off. This means you don't need to do anything extra to save power; the strip handles it for you.
Steps for APS Setup:
- Identify Outlets: Advanced power strips typically have specially marked outlets:
- Master Outlet: This is where your primary device (e.g., TV, computer tower, gaming console) plugs in.
- Always On Outlets: These outlets provide continuous power, regardless of the master device's status. Use these for devices that need constant power, like a cable box, router, or cordless phone base.
- Accessory Outlets (Switched Outlets): These outlets receive power only when the master device is on. This is where you plug in peripheral devices (e.g., speakers, printer, monitor, DVD player).
- Plug in the Master Device: Connect your main device to the designated Master Outlet. The APS monitors the power consumption of this device.
- Connect Accessory Devices: Plug your secondary devices into the Accessory Outlets. These devices will draw power only when your master device is active.
- Example: If your TV is plugged into the master outlet, and your soundbar and Blu-ray player are in accessory outlets, when your master device (TV) is turned off, those same accessory devices (soundbar, Blu-ray player) are automatically switched off. And stop using power you don't need to do anything. (As per the reference)
- Connect "Always On" Devices: If you have devices that require continuous power (e.g., internet modem, router, external hard drive for DVR), plug them into the Always On Outlets.
- Plug in the APS: Plug the advanced power strip into a wall outlet.
- Test the Functionality: Turn on your master device. Ensure all connected accessory devices power on. Then, turn off your master device and verify that the accessory devices also power down, demonstrating the energy-saving feature.
Types of Power Strips and Their Uses
Understanding different types helps in choosing the right power strip for your needs:
| Type of Power Strip | Primary Function | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Power Strip | Expands available outlets | Simple power distribution for low-power devices. |
| Surge Protector | Protects devices from power surges/spikes | Sensitive electronics (computers, TVs, gaming consoles). |
| Advanced Power Strip | Automates power control, reduces phantom load | Home entertainment centers, computer workstations (energy saving). |
| USB Power Strip | Includes USB charging ports | Charging smartphones, tablets, and other USB-powered devices. |
| Outdoor Power Strip | Weather-resistant for outdoor use | Outdoor lighting, tools, holiday decorations (check IP rating). |
Important Safety and Usage Tips
To ensure safety and longevity for your power strip and devices:
- Avoid Overloading: Do not plug in too many high-wattage devices into one strip. Check the power strip's maximum wattage rating (often printed on the back or bottom). Overloading can cause overheating and potential fires.
- No "Daisy-Chaining": Never plug one power strip into another. This can overload the wall outlet and increase fire risk.
- Use Grounded Outlets: Always plug power strips into grounded (three-prong) wall outlets.
- Proper Placement: Keep power strips away from water, heat sources, and out of reach of children and pets.
- Inspect Regularly: Periodically check the power strip, its cord, and plugs for any signs of wear, fraying, or damage. Replace damaged strips immediately.
- Surge Protection for Sensitive Electronics: For expensive or sensitive electronics, always opt for a surge protector, not just a basic power strip, to safeguard against power fluctuations.
- Cable Management: Use cable ties or sleeves to keep cords neat and prevent tripping hazards. This also helps with airflow around devices.
By following these guidelines, you can safely and effectively set up and utilize power strips to manage your electronic devices.
