What's the difference between a surge protector and a power conditioner?

Question

I just bought a new tv and I live in an old apartment. I know I need a surge protector and I would like to get a power conditioner. Do power condtioners offer surge protection as well (and vice versa - do surge protectors offer power conditioning)? Can anyone recommend a good unit under $180 USD? THANKS!

Answer 1

Also called a line conditioner, a device that sits between a computer and its power supply, typically a wall outlet. The power conditioner provides protection against surges in power just as a surge protector does, but a power conditioner also maintains a continuous voltage fed to the computer during temporary voltage reductions, such as a brownout. This is referred to as conditioning. Power conditioners also can filter EMI emanating from a power source and can smooth the rhythmic cycle of alternating current.

Answer 2

Some times a little bit of the audio coming out of a device, leaks into the power supple, causing interference with other devices using the same power supply. A power conditioner will prevent this, and sometimes will also prevent power surges. A surge protector will only protect from surges.

Answer 3

timothy's right.

greatname

tim.