If you don’t know yet, a power strip refers to a cord consisting of several outlets on one of its ends. Its function is to transfer AC power to various electrical devices you have, including network devices and desktop computers. You can find different types and styles of power strips in the market, such as bench/cabinet mount, rack-mount, and strip.
Why Do You Need a Desktop Power Strip?
Homeowners should have power strips, especially if you need to run multiple electronic devices but don’t have enough power outlets. You may need a power strip to ensure that your devices work and charge well.
A power strip is available in a wide range of lengths, materials, and how many outlets they have. Thus, you must assess your outlet needs before buying one.
If you are looking for a power strip you can use on your desktop, you are in the right place. The following are the things you must keep in mind before heading to the market to buy a desktop power strip.
Know the Outlet Configuration and Cord Length You Need
The first step you should do is to measure the distance between your grounded electrical outlet and the location where you want to put your power strip. One of the best things about power strips is that they are available in different lengths to reach up to 24 feet.
On the other hand, you must know the different power strip outlet configurations. These include end-mounted, rear-facing, front-facing, ring-angle, and standard outlets. In most cases, a standard outlet configuration is applicable for most power strip uses.
Do You Need Special Safety Features?
Some manufacturers create power strips with metal housings that can make them indestructible. On the one hand, others may have circuit breakers designed to minimize the possibility of system overload. GFCI power strips models are ideal for preventing sudden electric shocks. This model comes with a special feature that disconnects the circuit from your devices or appliances when a power spike happens.
USB Charging
Other power strips models come with a USB charging feature. You may consider this one, especially if all of your mobile devices require an available USB port to charge. A USB power strip produces enough power needed by your device. Beyond that, you don’t need to use AC adapters for mobile charging purposes.
20-Amp Rating
We highly recommend you to choose power strips with at least a 20-amp rating. You can use this for high voltage purposes. It would be best to select a power strip that is also equipped with a circuit breaker to ensure that the cord and your devices are protected against higher voltages.
Summary
Looking for the best desktop power strip is quite hard, especially if you don’t know how to start. Mentioned above are the factors you must keep in mind when shopping for power strips for your desktop. Doing so can help you find the one that suits your needs.
Do not forget to buy power strips from reputable companies to ensure high product quality.