Storm Damage is the Leading Cause of Modem
Replacement
If a connection problem occurs after a storm, there is a good chance
that your modem has been damaged by lightening.
Storm Damage Myth
Many people think that if they turn off their computers during storms, the
computer can't be damaged. This is not the case. As long as the modem is
plugged into a jack, the modem can be destroyed by electrical pulses in the
phone lines, even if the computer is completely unplugged from its
electrical power source.
Avoiding Electrical Damage
To protect your computer against lightening damage, you should have a modem
surge protector. Most people have electrical surge protectors, which
plug into the wall socket and then the computer power supply plugs into the
surge protector. The electrical surge protector protects the computer from
electrical fluctuations. A modem surge protector works the same way, except it
plugs into the wall jack and the modem cord is plugged into the modem surge
protector.
Why You Should Have a Modem Surge Protector
95% of electrical computer damage comes through the phone lines, not the
electrical lines. Luckily, electrical surges coming through the phone line
usually only damage the modem. Electrical surges and fluctuations through
power lines can damage computers extensively, which is why electrical surge
protectors are so important. Unfortunately, modem surge protection is often
overlooked and, if you've had to replace a modem due to electrical surges in
your phone line, there is a good chance you will have to replace the modem
repeatedly for the same reason.
Choosing a Surge Protector
It's less expensive (and easier) to protect your computer properly than to
replace damaged components. Surge protectors are available at any store that
sells computer accessories.
When purchasing a surge protector, look for a protection guarantee. When
a product comes with a guarantee, the manufacturer of the surge protector will
reimburse you for electrical damage incurred when their product is in place and
being used according to the directions. Surge protectors without this guarantee
will be less expensive, but that's because the manufacturers don't stand behind
the reliability of their products. In the long run, it's better to pay $25 for
a surge protector that does its job than to spend $5 for a fancy extension cord
and then over $60 to replace your modem- or several hundred to over a thousand
dollars to replace your computer.
Dual electrical/modem surge protectors are inexpensive and convenient. All
computer users should protect their equipment with these devices.