You can never have too may power outlets! Instead of the typical outlet strip, I get to try out the APC Essential SurgeArrest 6, which sits over your existing wall outlet, giving you not only 6 AC outlets but 2 USB charging ports, too.
Specifications:
- Nominal Operating Voltage: 120VAC, 50-60 Hz
- Maximum Amperage: 15A
- Joule Rating: 1080 Joules
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 1.5 in. x 4 in. x 5.5 in.
As the name implies, the P6WU2 provides 6 AC outlets (three on each side) and two USB charging ports (2.4 amp). Two LEDs on the front indicate if surge protection is working, and another indicating wiring fault.
Here you can see either side of the P6WU2 (three outlets each side). Notice the threaded screw in the middle? APC cautions you to use only with a duplex receptacle that has a center screw. Without taking the P6WU2 apart, I am not positive this screw gives a mechanical bond to ground, but it does reduce the chance your plugs get yanked off the wall.
The P6WU2 is plugged in. Green light = everything good!
The configuration of the AC outlets from the side gives your wiring a slightly lower profile. Here’s the P6WU2 living under my desk. I still have two spare AC outlets, and I have still have two USB ports to go.
For more information about the APC Essential SurgeArrest P6WU2, check out the link.
Source: The sample for this review was provided by APC. Please visit their site for more info and Amazon to order.
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I think the center screw is just for mechanical reinforcement considering how much pressure there is on the outlet with 6 power cords plugged in. Otherwise there wouldn’t be 3 prong plug.
This is a nice and economical product. Positively getting one.
I have another no-frills, no-name version of this somewhere in my garage, barely hanging on. It would definitely benefit from the center screw.
I also have a non-screw version, and it’s often ripped off the wall. This looks to be a great alternative.
It would be a fairly trivial thing to use a multimeter to determine if there is continuity between the screw (pulled tight in the housing) and the ground blade.