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Computer Times
Editors' Choice Surge Protection GreenGenius Smart Surge Protectors Review by Terry Kibiloski
Imagine a surge protector that will automatically disconnect power from your computer-connected components each time you turn off your computer, and then restore power to your computer-connected components each time you turn on your computer. Not only will this save energy, it is extremely convenient. Or, imagine walking into your room, using a remote to turn on your stereo system, and having your floor lamp and mood light come on at the same time. Or, imagine turning on a single lamp in your room and having all other lamps turn on automatically. This is what Accell’s new smart surge protectors can do for you with their new design that includes a control outlet, for the device that controls when the switched outlets are powered, and multiple switched outlets, that are only powered when the device plugged into the control outlet is turned on. Add a few always-on outlets for items like your phone, router, clock, or DVR, and you have an extremely useful surge protector. If you are in the market for a surge protector, or are using an older model without an energy saving feature, be sure to check out Accell’s line of smart surge protectors, which could save you a substantial amount of money each year on your monthly electric bill. In our review, we tested two of their models, a 6 outlet, model 110 (Retail $32.95 ), and a 10 outlet, model 120 (Retail $41.95). Both of them worked according to their advertised specifications and, depending upon your electric rates in your area of the country, could pay for themselves in the first year by lowering your energy usage. You can recognize Accell’s product line by the GreenGenius smarter power logo at the top of their packaging.
The Accell GreenGenius 6-outlet surge protector, model 110, features a high surge absorption capacity of 2250 Joules for continuous power protection. It includes 1 control outlet, 3 switched outlets, and 2 always-on outlets. One always-on outlet and the control outlet are transformer-spaced, providing room for those bulky transformers. It is packed with surge and noise reduction features, and is ideal for small office or home office use. All six outlets are noise filtered and surge protected, plus there is a surge protected phone line RJ11 splitter connection built in to the surge protector. A very nice features is the flexible 6 foot power cord, that has a right-angled space saving plug, so the cord goes straight down the wall when it is plugged in. The Accell GreenGenius 10 outlet surge protector, model 120, offers all the same features of the model 110, but has an increased high surge absorption capacity of 3600 Joules. It provides 4 transformer-spaced outlets, in its configuration of 1 control outlet, 5 switched outlets, and 4 always-on outlets, plus a ground indicator light to show if your electrical wiring is properly grounded. Additionally, the model 120 has sliding outlet covers to prevent exposure to unused outlets, a nice feature for those with small children who love to poke sharp objects into electrical outlets. Both models offer a built-in noise reduction filter for clear sound and picture. Minor fluctuations in power can influence the performance of your equipment. The built-in noise reduction filter reduces line static caused by "dirty" power. Line noise and electrical static caused by Radio Frequency (RF) and Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) can show up as snow in your picture or as crackling in your audio. GreenGenius AC power line noise rejection technology isolates your audio and video equipment from power generated noise for a superior picture and sound.
Both models come with a 5-year, $100,000 connected products limited warranty, which basically means if the surge protector fails to protect your equipment, Accell will pay for the power surge damage to your equipment. Both products also come with a cool feature that might seem insignificant to some but is indicative of the quality mindset at Accell. The safety information, operating instructions, and guarantee are printed on paper that is laminated so it will last as long as the surge protectors. Add in an extremely sturdy display carton, that includes a great illustration of the key features, full product specifications, and an explanation of how the units save you money, and you have the finishing touches on two great products that let you know you are buying a quality component to protect your electrical equipment and to save you money on your energy bills.  Since many electronic devices use unnecessary power when idle, in standby mode or even when turned off, this type of surge protection is recommended by the U.S. Department of Energy because its power protection circuit automatically disconnects power from components that are not being used. A Department of Energy study showed that 15% of the energy an average household uses is for standby current. GreenGenius™ smart surge protector and power conditioners pass both Executive order 13221, which states that Federal Agencies must buy electronics that use less than one watt when in idle mode, and Executive order 12845 concerning the purchase of energy efficient computer equipment. To check current prices on these GreenGenius smart surge protectors, click on the image links below.
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