How many of you out there are experiencing (or aware of) the "rolling blackout" energy crisis we are experiencing in California? Not only is this electrical blackout problem a huge inconvenience & loss to productivity, but this also poses a potential hazard to electonic (computer & music) equipment as well.

Yesterday, we in California have begun experiencing rolling electrical blackouts (2-3 hour intervals) because of the lack of sufficient electrical power to meet the demands of the State.

What a shock to be in the middle of a computer/music studio work project and then to suddenly find the electrical power suddenly gone for over 2 hours. We are expecting more "rolling blackouts" to occur throughout the State of California as we head into the summer high energy demanding months.

I was advised to completely unplug ALL music and computer equipment to prevent possible power surge damage which might occur when the power comes back on. I was recommended to do this, even if you are already using a surge protector with your computer/music equipment. I was advised that a surge protector is not 100% effective in protecting your equipment from a power surge. Is this really true? I use an APS brand (Back UPS Office surge protector and battery backup unit). Interested in hearing from others on the subject of surge protectors and the current rolling blackout crisis in California.

Scott
California (SF Bay Area)