For example, I just had a problem with my printer where it displayed error message that said the scanner was already in use… except it wasn’t. I looked up a solution, which worked, that in part said:
“The printer should be directly connected to the wall outlet and not to a surge protector.”
How does something like that lead to software hiccups/bugs? What’s the difference?
In: Technology
Numerous urban myths generate conclusions only based in an emotion. If a power strip restricts current, then it will cause a fire.
That power strip must have a circuit breaker – typically 15 amps. How many amps does that printer demand (always read numbers from a nameplate)? As long as that current is less than 15 amps, full power is always provided.
Third, move on to why that protector is not recommended (by companies run by product people – not by business school graduates). It can compromise what is already better protection inside electronics. An adjacent power strip with protector parts can make surge damage easier. Something completely different (called a surge protector) only does effective protection. That being another topic.
Four, more facts that make their myths obviously bogus. Connect an incandescent bulb to that same power source. Does it dim or brighten? If it does, then poor workmanship may exist in AC power wires. Fix that defect.
Meanwhile, that bulb can dim to 50% intensity or double intensity. Voltages that vary that much as still ideal for all electronics (but can be harmful to what are less robust motorized appliances). That is what a power supply does. AC voltages can vary that much. And internal DC voltages do not vary even 0.2 volts.
Move on to recommendations based in knowledge – not in emotions. A problem with the scanner is an internal problem.
Meanwhile, do that incandescent bulb test yourself. Don’t even take my word for it. Does it vary intensity? If not, that power strip (with or without protector parts) is not obstructing incoming power.
A adjacent power strip with protector parts is not recommended by the technically informed. Only recommended by so many educated only by hearsay, advertising propaganda, speculate, and subjective myths (no spec numbers). Something completely different, called a protector, is recommended. But not to solve your problem.
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