Power Strips & Surge Suppressors

Power Strips & Surge Suppressors

In broadcast, live sound, and post-production, stable power isn't just a convenience; it's the foundation of your entire signal chain. Professional power strips and surge suppressors serve as the critical first line of defense for your expensive AV assets. Rather than just multiplying outlets, a true pro-grade surge suppressor actively monitors incoming voltage and instantly clamps down dangerous spikes, isolating your digital audio converters, video switchers, and server racks from catastrophic electrical damage.

Designed Tough!
Modern production demands professional-grade heavy-duty hardware built for the road and the rack. Constructed with steel chassis, high-capacity circuit breakers, and spaced receptacles, they range from discrete stage-box style strips to large rack-mounted units with integrated digital voltmeters and safety features like recessed power switches and integrated outlet covers. Pros know a single power anomaly can destroy hours of work or ruin a live performance, so securing your gear with professional surge suppression ensures your production keeps running, no matter what happens with the grid.

We Can Help!
Selecting the correct power infrastructure for a complex rack or mobile flypack requires precision. Our team of seasoned broadcast and AV application engineers is standing by, ready to help you calculate total current draw or clamping voltage and assist you in designing a sequential power-up scheme. Markertek stocks an unmatched inventory of industry-leading brands trusted in master control rooms and on world tours, including Furman, Middle Atlantic, Tripp Lite, SurgeX and Milspec Industries. Reach out!

FAQ

What do clamping voltage and joule ratings mean for sensitive production equipment?
The joule rating indicates how much total energy the surge suppressor can absorb before its internal components wear out. At the same time, the clamping voltage is the threshold where the suppressor actively begins diverting the electrical spike away from your gear. For digital consoles, cameras, and server racks, spec a high joule rating (ideally 2,000+ joules) and a low clamping voltage (such as 330V or 400V) to ensure an instant reaction to even minor voltage spikes.

How do I know if my surge suppressor is still actively protecting my gear?
Most professional surge suppressors feature a "Protected" or "Grounded" LED indicator because the internal Metal Oxide Varistors (MOVs) degrade every time they absorb a surge and will eventually wear out. Once that indicator light goes out, your unit has sacrificed its protective circuitry to save your gear, and it's time for a new power strip!

Why is "daisy-chaining" power strips a major hazard?
Plugging one power strip or surge suppressor into another, or daisy-chaining, violates OSHA and National Electrical Code (NEC) regulations. It creates serious technical issues as it can easily overload a single wall outlet's amperage limit (typically 15A or 20A) and increase ground resistance, introducing unwanted 60Hz hum and preventing the surge protection circuitry from operating correctly.