Here are some helpful hints for avoiding costly damage from power surges, brownouts, and lightning strikes.

1) Start at the source - Do you have three prionged grounded outlets?
-If there are only two prongs, (II) It isn't.
-If there are three holes, but a tester for $5 at any hardware store or superstore. Plug the tester into the outlet and ensure that all the legs and trhe ground are working properly.

***CAUTION*** If the Indicator Lights indicate a Fault Consult a proffessional Electrician to fix the problem.

2) Don't overload the circuits.
- Choose an outlet that isn't on the same circuit as power hungry appliances like microwaves, refrigerators, washering machines...
- Be aware of the number of computer components that you plug into one source. Don't daisy chain surge protectors and power strips.

3) Get a new Surge Protector with your new computer.
-Ensure that you have a true surge protector and not a power strip. A power strip is simply an extension cord with multiple outlets, increasing the number of plugs that can be plugged in at a single location.
-Surge protectors will have on/off switches and indicator lights. Most highly rated Surge Protectors come with Insurance policies now, too.

4) Replace your Surge Protector after every major lightning Storm where it remained plugged in.
- The BEST POLICY during electrical storms is to unplug!!! Unplug the network cable, and the power cable. Simply shutting off the power will reduce the electrical flow signature, but not elimate it completely. When in doubt physically unplug everything.
- The most common cause of damage from electrical storms IS NOT a direct hit. During electrical storms static electricity builds up in the atmosphere until the point of discharge. This static can have a tremendous coverage area, and there is no way of knowing where it is, the charges may be so slight. The minute static discharges can have a devistating effect of delicate electrical components. Damage may be slight enough to remain hidden for several days, weeks or months.

5) Periodically runs a diagnostic check on your power supply. There are some great free resouces that check the voltage output of various rails, or power lines inside the computer. Replace power supplies that show signs of failure, before they go out completely.

6) Keep your computer dust free.
- Heat can damage sensitive parts of your computer, leaving them more vulnerable to electrical variations. Dust acts as an insulator, keeping component heat against the components. Periodically have your computer cleaned to remove the dust build up.

7) Use the power saving setting on your computer.
- No one likes it when the screen saver kicks in while you reading a web page, or other stuff. And when the power savings make it difficult to wake up your computer again, it is even more frustrating.
- DON'T SHUT THEM OFF COMPLETELY. Not only will this use more power, running up your electric bill and adding wear on your components, but it will also wear out your monitor faster too.
- Turn off monitors and printers when not in use. Just turn them off. How hard is it to flip a switch or push a button? Really.


REMEMBER - With a little care and awareness your new Brothers in Arms Custom Computer will last for quite some time.

Happy Computing.