7Preparing powerconnectionsProtecting from power source problemsDuring a power surge, the voltage level ofelectricity coming into your computer canincrease to far above normal levels and causedata loss or system damage. Protect yourcomputer and peripheral devices byconnecting them to asurge protector, whichabsorbs voltage surges and prevents themfrom reaching your computer.Anuninterruptible power supply (UPS)supplies battery power to your computerduring a power failure. Although you cannotrun your computer for an extended period oftime with a UPS, a UPS lets you run yourcomputer long enough to save your work andshut down your computer normally.WarningHigh voltages can enter your computer through both thepower cord and the modem connection. Protect your computer byusing a surge protector. If you have a telephone modem, use a surgeprotector that has a modem jack. If you have a cable modem, usea surge protector that has an antenna/cable TV jack. During anelectrical storm, unplug both the surge protector and the modem.
