Cigar King Posted April 18, 2016 #1 Share Posted April 18, 2016 I happened to notice that Amazon has a sale on the travel surge protector several of us use. This is the Belkin with a couple of USB ports and three outlets. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ATZJ5YS/ref=br_prlt_slcty_pdt-2?ie=UTF8&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-top-1&pf_rd_r=0XJSJ7VYS9JQP7KZWSQ2&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=5452148e-cf35-4982-87b9-1fe783b7c26b&pf_rd_i=11646946011 Enjoy Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Clarea Posted April 18, 2016 #2 Share Posted April 18, 2016 It's been discussed here that these kinds of surge protectors are not safe to use on ships because of the floating ground system. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
diane.in.ny Posted April 18, 2016 #3 Share Posted April 18, 2016 Don't need a surge suppressor. Just a simple multi outlet extension cord will do. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tutzig Posted April 18, 2016 #4 Share Posted April 18, 2016 We have this and have used it whenever we travel! We love it! And never had an issue! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lady Hudson Posted April 18, 2016 #5 Share Posted April 18, 2016 It's been discussed here that these kinds of surge protectors are not safe to use on ships because of the floating ground system. Can you explain more, Bob? I have used this device in the past without any problems. Thanks. Katherine Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NurseDave Posted April 18, 2016 #6 Share Posted April 18, 2016 Can you explain more, Bob? I have used this device in the past without any problems. Thanks. Katherine Without getting into the weeds too much. The electrical system on a ship, works differently than on land and CAN but seems usually doesn't react poorly with surge protectors in a way that can overheat and cause a fire. Despite people's opinions, there have been variously links to technical explanations and warnings about using such devices. So yes, many people use them, most cruise lines don't allow power strips due to this issue, and chances are nothing will happen, but that doesn't change the fact that it could and opinion or experience doesn't change how power works on the ship. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Clarea Posted April 18, 2016 #7 Share Posted April 18, 2016 Can you explain more, Bob? I have used this device in the past without any problems. Thanks. Katherine I've also used the device without problems, but it's come to my attention that because it's not designed for use with the type of wiring that a ship has, there is a fire hazard. Here is a post with an explantion: http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showpost.php?p=49476307&postcount=65 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lady Hudson Posted April 18, 2016 #8 Share Posted April 18, 2016 Thank you. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chengkp75 Posted April 18, 2016 #9 Share Posted April 18, 2016 (edited) I've also used the device without problems, but it's come to my attention that because it's not designed for use with the type of wiring that a ship has, there is a fire hazard. Here is a post with an explantion: http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showpost.php?p=49476307&postcount=65 Thanks, Bob. Let me add a clarifying note to those who have used a Belkin or similar device in the past "without a problem". If you read the USCG Safety Notice, the fire's root cause was not a problem with the surge protector that eventually failed and caught fire, but it was due to another device or piece of electrical equipment on the ship (and noted as even being on a different circuit) that "went to ground" (the insulation failed) that reverse powered the MOV's in the surge protector that caught fire. Unintentional grounds aboard ship are fairly common due to the presence of outdoor lighting fixtures exposed to storms and seas, which sometimes fill with sea water and ground out. This is another reason that shipboard grounding is designed as it is, so that the engineers can quickly identify any grounded circuit and repair it before it can cause a problem. So, the long and short of it is, your Belkin may in fact be completely normal in operation, right up until the moment that something else on the ship causes it to go into "thermal runaway". Edited April 18, 2016 by chengkp75 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Clarea Posted April 18, 2016 #10 Share Posted April 18, 2016 Thanks, Bob..... I hope you don't mind that I took the liberty of linking your post. I like that post because you mention alternatives. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chengkp75 Posted April 18, 2016 #11 Share Posted April 18, 2016 I hope you don't mind that I took the liberty of linking your post. I like that post because you mention alternatives. Not at all, glad to have the help getting the word out. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rare Keith1010 Posted April 18, 2016 #12 Share Posted April 18, 2016 I don't see the need to use a surge protector these days when you travel. We use this power strip and have for years. http://www.amazon.com/Monster-MP-OTG400-BK-Outlets/dp/B000F9YN2M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1460999538&sr=8-1&keywords=Monster+Travel+Power+Strip Keith Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cigar King Posted April 18, 2016 Author #13 Share Posted April 18, 2016 I may switch at some point. I don't think we have anything that uses an actual power cord anymore, but, we have a lot that use the USB. I need to do some research as I'd like to get a little more amperage, perhaps 4 or so, per port. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cigar King Posted April 18, 2016 Author #14 Share Posted April 18, 2016 If it's useful, here's what I am currently looking at. It doesn't have the ability of the Belkin to rotate in the outlet, and that has been useful in the past. I'll probably shop around more...not a rush. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B011UBGZJ2/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3HUOUU3HNUN07&coliid=IJAKGSDJPAZU4&psc=1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Clarea Posted April 18, 2016 #15 Share Posted April 18, 2016 If it's useful, here's what I am currently looking at. It doesn't have the ability of the Belkin to rotate in the outlet, and that has been useful in the past. I'll probably shop around more...not a rush. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B011UBGZJ2/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3HUOUU3HNUN07&coliid=IJAKGSDJPAZU4&psc=1 I'm going to try to open the Belkin device I have and snip off the surge protector part. I want the two/three outlets, plus USB ports, plus the swivel, and I've not found anything like that yet. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jk04 Posted April 19, 2016 #16 Share Posted April 19, 2016 Not at all, glad to have the help getting the word out. Thank you for the detailed explanation as to why the travel chargers with surge protectors can cause issues on a ship. I don't quite understand it all... :) I also have the Belkin swivel, which I love, and was planning on bringing it along on our October cruise on the Allure. But, it will just have to stay at home. I am looking for an adapter to charge multiple Android units plus my Kindle. Your suggestions from the other thread are very helpful. If I can get your opinion on an adapter, I would very much appreciate it. I'm not sure what specifically to look for that makes it incompatible on the ship. You indicated even if surge protection isn't advertised, the unit could still have that capability. The following is what I am looking at, to me, it is just a USB hub and I don't think they have surge protection. I have this in a larger unit that has a pretty large brick for the power supply. This one looks like a small plugin. I already know the brand will work with all my devices. Thank you so much for your assistance and your patience for those of us not well versed in electrical systems. http://www.amazon.com/HooToo-Charging-Station-Travel-Charger/dp/B00KRY4YJW/ref=pd_sim_147_2?ie=UTF8&dpID=419vsEGH63L&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=1RBQ8RVFV4KFBAVQAD8C Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Melozone Posted April 19, 2016 #17 Share Posted April 19, 2016 I'm going to try to open the Belkin device I have and snip off the surge protector part. I want the two/three outlets, plus USB ports, plus the swivel, and I've not found anything like that yet. Let us know how it works. I have the same kind you have. One thing I always take with me is one of the adapters for the European type plugs. The two round prong type. It gives you an extra outlet Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Melozone Posted April 19, 2016 #18 Share Posted April 19, 2016 If it's useful, here's what I am currently looking at. It doesn't have the ability of the Belkin to rotate in the outlet, and that has been useful in the past. I'll probably shop around more...not a rush. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B011UBGZJ2/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=3HUOUU3HNUN07&coliid=IJAKGSDJPAZU4&psc=1 How about one of these. They have a little cord that has the plug attached. You don't have to worry about it rotating. http://www.amazon.com/Charger-Mopower-Portable-Adapter-Technology/dp/B00V4JI7G0/ref=sr_1_4?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1461031996&sr=1-4&keywords=wall+charger+multiple+usb Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Clarea Posted April 19, 2016 #19 Share Posted April 19, 2016 How about one of these. They have a little cord that has the plug attached. You don't have to worry about it rotating. http://www.amazon.com/Charger-Mopower-Portable-Adapter-Technology/dp/B00V4JI7G0/ref=sr_1_4?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1461031996&sr=1-4&keywords=wall+charger+multiple+usb Looks OK, I don't see any mention of surge protection. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Froufie Posted April 19, 2016 #20 Share Posted April 19, 2016 I too have the belkin and used it for many years - but it has since 'died' on me - so I am looking to replace it - as mentioned the surge protection seems to be the issue - however I am most interested in the swivel option or something that is more flexible in nature. Mostly looking for something with room for more than one electrical outlet - e.g. hair appliances, music, etc...not so much for charging devices.... Wondering if there is something similar to the belkin in functionality as it worked great for those tight spots where you could swivel it to make it fit! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Melozone Posted April 19, 2016 #21 Share Posted April 19, 2016 Ok, I just ordered two different things. One is four AC plugs and the other is five USB ports. It has a cord that will plug in so it wont be so bulky. http://www.amazon.com/Monster-MP-OTG400-BK-Outlets/dp/B000F9YN2M?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00 http://www.amazon.com/Poweradd-Family-Sized-Desktop-Charger-Smartphones/dp/B00J5DS8NE?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00 It just so happens I got a $100 gift card from Amazon today for some heath care thing I did. I've spent it all today on stuff for our upcoming cruise. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Clarea Posted April 19, 2016 #22 Share Posted April 19, 2016 Ok, I just ordered two different things. One is four AC plugs and the other is five USB ports. It has a cord that will plug in so it wont be so bulky. http://www.amazon.com/Monster-MP-OTG400-BK-Outlets/dp/B000F9YN2M?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00 http://www.amazon.com/Poweradd-Family-Sized-Desktop-Charger-Smartphones/dp/B00J5DS8NE?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00 It just so happens I got a $100 gift card from Amazon today for some heath care thing I did. I've spent it all today on stuff for our upcoming cruise. Those look good too.:) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chengkp75 Posted April 19, 2016 #23 Share Posted April 19, 2016 Thank you for the detailed explanation as to why the travel chargers with surge protectors can cause issues on a ship. I don't quite understand it all... :) I also have the Belkin swivel, which I love, and was planning on bringing it along on our October cruise on the Allure. But, it will just have to stay at home. I am looking for an adapter to charge multiple Android units plus my Kindle. Your suggestions from the other thread are very helpful. If I can get your opinion on an adapter, I would very much appreciate it. I'm not sure what specifically to look for that makes it incompatible on the ship. You indicated even if surge protection isn't advertised, the unit could still have that capability. The following is what I am looking at, to me, it is just a USB hub and I don't think they have surge protection. I have this in a larger unit that has a pretty large brick for the power supply. This one looks like a small plugin. I already know the brand will work with all my devices. Thank you so much for your assistance and your patience for those of us not well versed in electrical systems. http://www.amazon.com/HooToo-Charging-Station-Travel-Charger/dp/B00KRY4YJW/ref=pd_sim_147_2?ie=UTF8&dpID=419vsEGH63L&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=1RBQ8RVFV4KFBAVQAD8C This one is easy, right on the Amazon page it lists "surge protection" as one of the features. Sorry. Most multi-USB chargers do in fact have surge protection. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chengkp75 Posted April 19, 2016 #24 Share Posted April 19, 2016 How about one of these. They have a little cord that has the plug attached. You don't have to worry about it rotating. http://www.amazon.com/Charger-Mopower-Portable-Adapter-Technology/dp/B00V4JI7G0/ref=sr_1_4?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1461031996&sr=1-4&keywords=wall+charger+multiple+usb Looks OK, I don't see any mention of surge protection. This one mentions "over voltage" protection, which is surge protection. If in doubt, contact the manufacturer. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chengkp75 Posted April 19, 2016 #25 Share Posted April 19, 2016 Ok, I just ordered two different things. One is four AC plugs and the other is five USB ports. It has a cord that will plug in so it wont be so bulky. http://www.amazon.com/Monster-MP-OTG400-BK-Outlets/dp/B000F9YN2M?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00 http://www.amazon.com/Poweradd-Family-Sized-Desktop-Charger-Smartphones/dp/B00J5DS8NE?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00 It just so happens I got a $100 gift card from Amazon today for some heath care thing I did. I've spent it all today on stuff for our upcoming cruise. Those look good too.:) This one took a little more work, I've visited the PowerAdd website, and still got very little on specifications, so I've emailed them about this, will post the answer. As I've said, you really can't go by a consumer product page like Amazon for detailed specifications, and even a lot of manufacturer's sites are not clear. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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