Power cuts pull PCs plugs

Colin Thornton, of Dial a Nerd who specialises in aiding computer users said they have had numerous calls from PC users whose computers have "gone dead" due to the power cuts.

Thornton said: "Surges associated with power outages can have a detrimental effect on PCs and we suggest that users unplug their systems completely if they know that a scheduled power cut is about to occur.

"Power surges can damage your PC's mother board as well as its internal 'power supply' systems which usually make electrical power palatable for the PC, distributing it to all necessary components. These can be replaced but obviously at a cost."

Caroline Da Silva, Head of Commercial Underwriting at Santam said: "Householders and businesses are able to take out what is known as 'accidental damage' insurance to protect appliances like their PCs against any mechanical or electrical damage caused during the power cuts.

"You are able to add this cover to your existing policy which will add to the cost of your household or business insurance premiums.

"Lightning and surge protection products are available on the market which will protect your PC and reduce your risk."

Da Silva adds that Santam will appoint an assessor who will decide whether your appliance needs to be replaced or can be repaired and will pay out accordingly.

Thornton says the only way around the cuts for offices that require PCs is to install a UPS, a generator or solar power.

"An Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) system basically runs electrical power through a battery, keeping it continuously charged. The battery then kicks into action when the power goes. A UPS sufficient to power a medium sized office for several hours would cost around R60 000.

"Generators are cheaper but noisy, messy and require fuel.

"Solar power is another, 'greener' option, which for a medium sized business using (about) 20 computer would cost around R500 000 to install."