Lightning and computers

[mycats]

I've seen a few posts in the last few days where people have said that there is a thunder storm where they are. I thought that you should unplug your computer modem during thunder and lightning? Same as you are not meant to use the phone.

[Catso]

It is indeed a cheap, sensible precaution to protect it from damage.

You should also consider unplugging your PC, and TV.

I suppose it depends upon how likely you feel you are to be struck by lightning!

Phone systems are particularly prone to damage as the long lengths of wire, out in the open, are more likely to be struck. And the lines can act like aerials and pick up strong electro-magnetic fields even if not directly hit.

[Ethel]

I have surge protectors which will cut out in the rare occurence of a lightning strike.

[mycats]

My surge protector isnt being used just now (dont ask lol) so I think I'll just unplug it if we get thunder and lightning.

[Catso]

I had a surge protector on my internal telephone exchange & network switch (admittedly, not a particularly 'high-performance' one). The house across the road was hit by lightning. My exchange & switch suffered sudden death. Fortunately, my modem & PC (and the TV) were switched off at the time and survived.

Moral: whilst it is undoubtedly a sensible precaution, a surge protector might not always work, and pulling the plug is the best surge protector of all. And cheaper.