Do you need a surge protector recommendation for your PC?
Do you need a surge protector recommendation for your PC?
When the surge protector strip includes multiple outlets, it can deliver up to 10A under sustained load. For a PSU with a 6A mains cable, this setup supports up to 1500W (at 250V multiplied by 6A). The typical IEC type C14 plug for ATX power supplies is rated at 10A in the international market and 15A in North America, matching the capacity of the corresponding mains lead (type C13 socket), which is also rated at 10A or 15A. I recently verified one of my IEC C13 leads and confirmed its 10A/250V rating.
Your 6A cable seems relatively light for me, but the Deepcool DQ850M-V3L PSU is unlikely to exceed 1000W (considering ATX efficiency losses). Under normal use, your system likely draws between 100 and 400W.
Most universal switched-mode PSUs found in computers and laptops are designed for operation across a continuous voltage range of 100V to 240V at 50/60Hz AC. They can handle slightly higher voltages, but they still operate safely within these limits.
In the U.K., the maximum allowed voltage is 253V (240V plus 6%). I’ve observed higher readings at a distant site using an 11kV to 240V transformer with an excessively high tap setting. When consulted, the utility company adjusted the tap level, but the voltage occasionally surpasses 250V. This can accelerate wear on older fluorescent lighting.
Short bursts above 253V are acceptable, as long as they don’t occur more than 10% of the time over a 24-hour period (this seems accurate).
If your mains voltage exceeds 270V (a rough estimate), you may face safety risks such as explosions or PSU failure. Conversely, if the supply drops below 75V (approximation), the increased current beyond design limits could lead to failure.
As mains voltage decreases, switched-mode PSUs increase current to maintain output power. Excessive current through a MOSFET is just as harmful as excessive voltage across a bulk capacitor.
I’m comfortable with voltages between 90 and 253V when running my equipment, but it’s best to disconnect if the voltage strays outside these suggested ranges.