Need suggestion on how to utilize both a UPS and SurgeArrest

[budywn_apc]

This was originally posted on APC forums on 5/6/2013

---

Hi,

I use a Performance SurgeArrest PF8VNT3-GR (SA), and only recently purchased a BX800CI-AS (UPS). The UPS says not to attach surge strips/protectors into an outlet, and Customer Care Center has told me NOT to combine the two. I'm quite satisfied with the SA and reluctant to put away, as it also protects phone/modem, LAN, and has a ground indicator. The UPS has only phone/modem. At present, I connect all power to the UPS (currently only using 25% of power), however have kept the wall outlet/modem/phone connections and LAN passing through the SA. Both equipment connect to the same AC outlet using a T-socket adapter. I haven't experienced blackouts (yet) but in this scheme, my DSL router will be covered but the SA will shut off. Does anyone have any suggestion/opinion? Should I just remove the SA altogether?

[BillP · Accepted solution]

This reply was originally posted by Joe on APC forums on 5/7/2013

---

If I understand you correctly, your SA does not provide power to any of your components but simply affords protection to your modem/phone/local area network, correct?  In this case, your connected communications lines should still be afforded protection even though the power to the SA is no longer available because the SA is a passive device.

Regarding connecting the SA in series to a UPS output, I have heard that this is not the best practice but I've done it before and haven't experienced anything negative in the way my system operates.  Of course, I have never experienced a lightening strike, etc., so I could have been at risk and didn't know it.