How does being plugged directly into the wall vs. an extension cord/surge protector affect the function of an electronic’s software?

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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

3 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

Some surge protectors can impede some current to the printer. This can cause the electronic parts of the printer to receive less “electricity” than it needs to function properly. Laser printing is very dependant on timing, if the paper isn’t where it is supposed to be when the printer is expecting it to be there it can cause jams. If the motors inside the printer are receiving less current or voltage they will be pushing the paper through at a slower speed. The printer has built in sensors that detect an insufficient current or voltage and gives these errors so the customer experience is consistent.

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