Something I stumbled across a while ago was this awesome power strip which allows you to selectively switch off certain outlets. As with standard power strips, you can shut off power to the whole device, but this only gives the flexibility to just turn off selected outlets with a similar switch.
I started using this recently on my computer stuff at home, replacing my old power strip, and now I can easily shut power off completely to my modem, router, speakers, printer and monitor while leaving power to my computer. This cuts down on my ‘vampire’ power usage while not being a hastle at all. I was previously unplugging my power strip from the wall at night (since the strip isn’t easy to reach), but this is so much easier. This way, I can also keep power to my computer in the event I need to have it automatically boot up in the morning.
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I still have one of those lazy susan monitor bases/stands from Memorex with the switches on the front and the outlets on the back. It’s got to be at least 15 years old. My best friend bought his before mine, and he still has his on his computer as well.
Do I use the switches? Not so much. But they still work (even if the lights on them sometimes don’t work…)
I use a similar product to turn stuff off that can be turned off. The key for non techie types is to realize not all gear can be turned off without consequence. Backup batteries go dead. Some wireless printers loose their IP. Also many, if not all UPS manuals warn not to have surge protection strips plugged into them.
This is a nicer (and a little more expensive) rack mount model of a similar product: “http://www.gemsound.com/products_signalprocessors_sp8500.html” I mounted one under my desk with a couple of supports. It is not a surge protection strip, but your surge protector should be connected between your wall and your UPS.
http://www.gemsound.com/products_signalprocessors_sp8500.html
You can get it (after they get some in) at “http://www.mcmelectronics.com/product/555-2930&cid=prodCrossSell”
DrMike
(I have no connection to either Gemsound or MCM).