The days of old Ben Franklin flying his kite and trying to harness the power of lightning are gone. In fact, in the world of computers, lightning storms are natural born killers.

I get far too many e-mails and calls from folks who have left their computer systems unprotected from a zap attack and now only a fried chunk of metal (or hard plastic).

Depending on where you live, and how fierce the lightning storms are, simple surge protection or just turning your computer off may not be enough, which is why the folks at the Storm Shelter Corp. developed the StrikeUPS ($495 plus a subscription to the Storm Cell Network).

Of course, you could unplug your computers at the first hint of a storm. But let's face it, a lot of the time you're either not around to do it or you simply forget.

The StrikeUPS is designed to receive a signal from the Storm Cell Network if there's a storm developing in your area and it takes the appropriate steps to protect your PC and your data. When the device is alerted to a storm, it disconnects any electronic equipment attached to it from their power source and transfers them to its battery back up.

Other features include:

• It can withstand currents in excess of 35,000 volts.
• Users are alerted to an approaching storm via an audible alarm. It's then their choice whether to have the device disconnect their equipment or to ignore the warning and keep it connected.
• The Storm Cell Network is available for a yearly subscription of $119 or monthly at $9.95.
• Lightning data is provided by Vaisala, which designs and provides lightning detection equipment and information systems.
• It takes four-to-eight hours to recharge the battery.
• There are five outlets for electronic devices --- two strictly for lightning protection and three that also provide backup power.
• Telephone network protection.
• Control-panel software for your PC.
• A pager that maintains contact with the Storm Cell Network.

More information on the StrikeUPS can be found at www.stoplightning.com.

---

 

To comment on this article, contact me here.