Low Joule rating am I protected

[BillP]

I always bought APC products because of their reputation. I purchased a few surge protecters just based on the APC name. I did not realize they have different ratings. I know APC units stop working when a a surge it too powerful for the unit, so in other words I was thinking of the surge protectors as circuit breakers. I have a APC Personal SurgeArrest unit at the desk where I plug my laptop. I just found out this unit is only rates at 240 joules. Is that good enough for my laptop? What happens if a surge that is 800 joules hits my line, does the unit turn off before it can damage my computer?

[BillP · Accepted solution]

I'd refer to this article for further information and let us know if you have any additional questions. I think it will help clear up a lot of your questions.

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