Cable length
The length of the cable used to connect the surge protector to the network.
The longer the cable, the farther from the outlet you can install the device. On the other hand, a long cable can be inconvenient over short distances. Models on a coil are deprived of this drawback (see "Type"), this moment is compensated by the actual presence of the coil, but they differ in large dimensions and heavy weight. So when choosing, it is far from always worth chasing the maximum length of the wire.
Max. energy absorption
The maximum energy absorption provided by the mains filter, namely, the maximum pulse energy at which the device can safely absorb and dissipate it, completely protecting the connected load. The higher this indicator, the more reliable the filter, the more powerful power surges it can handle. In inexpensive models, the maximum absorption is calculated in tens of joules, in the most advanced models it can exceed 1000 J and even 2000 J.
Power switch
—
Switch on the body. This function allows you to turn off the power to the load without disconnecting the filter itself from the mains — in other words, it eliminates the need to once again remove the filter plug from the outlet and insert it back. Most often, the switch controls all filter outlets, however, there are models where some of the connectors are bypassed and are always energized, regardless of the position of the switch.
—
A switch for each outlet. This feature makes it easier to manage the power of connected devices: unplugging and plugging individual outlets is usually easier and faster than unplugging and plugging back in. Thus, electrical appliances used with such a filter can be kept constantly connected to it, turning off and on individual outlets as needed.
— Switch for each circuit. The function is used in models with numerous outlets. Allows you to simultaneously disable half of them, leaving the rest working. It combines the convenience of the points listed above and at the same time does not clutter up the device with unnecessary switches.
It is also worth noting that there are models that combine both a switch on the case and a switch for each outlet.
Grounded sockets (type F)
The number of
sockets with type F grounding, provided in the design of the mains filter.
In this case, we are talking about full-size European type F sockets with metal ground clamps on both sides at the edges of the socket. The "socket" in this case means a CEE 7/4 ("Schuko") standard plug. Grounding is required for the safe operation of some types of electrical appliances, in particular, washing machines and other machines that work with water, refrigerators, computers, audio equipment, etc. A detailed list can be found in the reference literature. If you plan to connect such devices through the filter, this filter must have sockets with grounding.
Protection level
The degree of protection of electrical appliances is regulated by the international standard IP (International / Ingress Protection Rating). For power strip outlets, the most commonly used protection standards are IP20 and IP44.
Only ordinary household models do not have protection. Devices in the IP20 category have basic protection against dust, but they are not protected against moisture. Sockets rated IP44 and above are capable of withstanding both dust and moisture. Models of this class can be safely used in bathrooms and other rooms with a high level of humidity.
