Random Hardware topics

[Zed Clampet]

While this is specifically happening to my laptop, it is also a warning for desktops, where the situation would be harder to figure out. Long story short, my laptop is refusing the power provided by my surge protector. This means that something is wrong with the surge protector. So if you have a laptop and it refuses to charge, and it's plugged into a surge protector. Plug it in anywhere else and see if it starts charging.

The problem is that the laptop can do this because of the power pack. A desktop won't react the same way, possibly up until the faulty power kills something. But if there is a warning sign, it is usually random reboots or coil whine.

In fact, it isn't recommended to plug your PC/laptop into a surge protector at all. You should be using a Pure Sine Wave UPS.

Yay, I learned something today.

 

[Colif]

In fact, it isn't recommended to plug your PC/laptop into a surge protector at all. You should be using a Pure Sine Wave UPS.

do you have a source for that?

HP suggest a surge protector first over UPS

https://www.hp.com/us-en/shop/tech-takes/how-to-protect-computer-from-power-surges

I always use a Belkin surge protector power board. And I know its safe still as both of its lights are on in the same locations they were when I got it. Also have a spare 8 port one now for when I get a monitor. Current one is about 5 years old.

Thought about a UPS but if the surge protection only lasts one surge, it seems a waste of money to me.

I just unplug PC if there are any storms around. Cheaper than buying a UPS in my mind.