The APC Essential SurgeArrest 5 Outlets with 5V, 2.4A 2-Port USB Charger 230V UK (PM5U-UK) is a professional-grade surge protector designed to safeguard home and office electronics from power surges, spikes, and electrical noise. Manufactured by Schneider Electric’s APC brand, this device combines five BS1363A UK outlets with two USB Type-A ports for convenient charging, making it an ideal solution for protecting computers, home entertainment systems, and mobile devices. In this blog, we’ll explore the key features, technical specifications, benefits, and user feedback for the PM5U-UK, providing a detailed overview for anyone seeking reliable power protection.
Overview of the APC Essential SurgeArrest PM5U-UK
The PM5U-UK is part of APC’s Essential SurgeArrest series, offering robust surge protection for sensitive electronics in home and small office environments. With a surge energy rating of 918 Joules, a fail-safe mode, and EMI/RFI noise filtering, it ensures comprehensive protection against power disturbances. The addition of two USB charging ports (5V, 2.4A total) enhances its versatility, allowing users to charge smartphones, tablets, and other USB-powered devices without occupying power outlets. Its compact design, right-angle plug, and 1.83-meter cord make it practical for various setups, from desks to entertainment centers.
Key Features
- Robust Surge Protection
The PM5U-UK offers a surge energy rating of 918 Joules, protecting connected devices from lightning strikes, power surges, and spikes. It features Metal Oxide Varistors (MOVs) and a thermal fuse for instantaneous reaction to catastrophic events, ensuring excess power does not reach equipment. The device complies with IEEE let-through ratings of less than 15% worldwide, indicating strong protection performance. - Fail-Safe Mode
Unlike many surge suppressors that allow power to pass through after circuit damage, the PM5U-UK’s fail-safe mode disconnects equipment from the power supply if its surge components are compromised, preventing exposure to subsequent surges. A Protection Working Indicator LED alerts users if the circuitry is damaged and unable to provide full protection. If under warranty, APC will replace a damaged unit free of charge. - EMI/RFI Noise Filtering
The SurgeArrest attenuates electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI), reducing line noise that can cause data errors or keyboard lockups. This ensures better performance for sensitive electronics like computers and audio equipment. - Two USB Charging Ports
The PM5U-UK includes two USB Type-A ports with a combined output of 5V, 2.4A, allowing simultaneous charging of mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. This eliminates the need for separate chargers, freeing up outlets for other devices. - Building Wiring Fault Indicator
A dedicated LED informs users of potentially dangerous wiring issues in the wall circuit, helping to identify and address electrical problems before they damage equipment. - Resettable Circuit Breaker
The PM5U-UK features a resettable circuit breaker for easy recovery from overloads, eliminating the need to replace fuses and simplifying maintenance. - Flexible Design
The surge protector has a compact form factor (56mm H x 385mm W x 73mm D) and a 1.83-meter cord with a right-angle BS1363A UK plug, allowing placement close to walls or furniture without cord stress. It is also wall-mountable for space-saving installation. - Regulatory Compliance and Warranty
The PM5U-UK complies with global safety standards, including CE, Kema, Gost, C-tick, A-Tick, and Telepermit. It is backed by a 3-year local manufacturer warranty, ensuring reliability and customer support. - Eco-Friendly Disposal
The device uses packaging with at least 70% recycled cardboard (50% in the US) and must be disposed of through specific waste collection programs in the EU, aligning with Schneider Electric’s Green Premium sustainability standards.
Technical Specifications
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the APC Essential SurgeArrest PM5U-UK specifications:
- Number of Outlets: 5 (BS1363A UK plug)
- Receptacle Style: British BS1363A
- Nominal Input Voltage: 230V
- Input Frequency: 50 Hz ± 5 Hz
- Input Connection: British BS1363A
- Cord Length: 1.83 meters
- Maximum Input Current: 13.0A
- Surge Energy Rating: 918 Joules
- Peak Current: 12kA (Normal Mode), 24kA (Common Mode)
- Nominal Surge Response Time: 1 ns
- EMI/RFI Noise Rejection (100 kHz to 10 MHz): Up to 40 dB
- USB Charging Ports: 2 x USB Type-A (5V, 2.4A total)
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 56mm x 385mm x 73mm
- Net Weight: 0.72kg
- Color: White
- Operating Temperature: 0–40°C
- Operating Relative Humidity: 0–90% (non-condensing)
- Operating Elevation: 0–3000 meters
- Storage Temperature: -15–45°C
- Storage Elevation: 0–15000 meters
- Certifications: CE, Kema, Gost, C-tick, A-Tick, Telepermit
- Warranty: 3 years (local manufacturer warranty)
- SCC Codes: 1073130431385 1
Benefits of the APC Essential SurgeArrest PM5U-UK
- Comprehensive Device Protection
With a 918-Joule surge energy rating, fail-safe mode, and EMI/RFI filtering, the PM5U-UK protects sensitive electronics from power surges, spikes, and noise, extending their lifespan. - Convenient USB Charging
The two USB ports (5V, 2.4A) provide efficient charging for mobile devices, reducing clutter and the need for additional adapters. - User-Friendly Design
The compact size, right-angle plug, and resettable circuit breaker make the PM5U-UK easy to install and maintain, even in tight spaces. The wiring fault indicator adds an extra layer of safety. - Cost-Effective Solution
Priced competitively, the PM5U-UK offers professional-grade protection at an affordable cost, making it accessible for home users and small businesses. Retailers like UPSBuyer offer price matching to ensure the best value. - Environmental Responsibility
The use of recycled packaging and a specific waste collection program for disposal aligns with global sustainability standards, reducing environmental impact.
Applications
The APC Essential SurgeArrest PM5U-UK is ideal for:
- Home Offices: Protects computers, monitors, and routers from power disturbances.
- Home Entertainment Systems: Safeguards TVs, gaming consoles, and audio equipment.
- Small Businesses: Ensures reliable operation of POS systems, desktops, and peripherals.
- Mobile Device Charging: Powers smartphones, tablets, and other USB devices in homes or offices.
Customer Feedback
The PM5U-UK has limited recent reviews, but feedback on similar APC SurgeArrest models (e.g., PM5-UK) is generally positive. On BT Business Direct, customers praise the device’s reliability, compact design, and USB charging convenience, with a 4.5-star average rating from a small sample. Users note its effectiveness in protecting home electronics and appreciate the wiring fault indicator for identifying electrical issues. Some mention the price is higher than basic power strips, but the added USB ports and fail-safe protection justify the cost. No significant negative feedback was found, though some users desire more outlets for larger setups.
Installation and Setup
Setting up the PM5U-UK is simple:
- Choose a Location: Place the surge protector near a BS1363A UK outlet, ensuring the 1.83-meter cord reaches your devices.
- Plug In: Connect the right-angle plug to the wall outlet. The plug’s design allows placement close to walls or furniture.
- Connect Devices: Plug up to five devices into the BS1363A outlets and use the USB ports for charging mobile devices.
- Check Indicators: Verify that the Protection Working Indicator LED is on, confirming surge protection is active. Check the Building Wiring Fault Indicator for any wiring issues.
- Wall Mounting (Optional): Use the keyhole slots on the back to mount the unit on a wall for space-saving placement.
The included user manual provides detailed instructions, and a PDF installation guide is available on Schneider Electric’s website.
Conclusion
The APC Essential SurgeArrest 5 Outlets with 5V 2.4A 2-Port USB Charger 230V UK (PM5U-UK) is a reliable and versatile surge protector for home and office use. Its 918-Joule surge rating, fail-safe mode, EMI/RFI filtering, and USB charging ports make it an excellent choice for protecting computers, entertainment systems, and mobile devices. The compact design, resettable circuit breaker, and compliance with global safety standards ensure ease of use and peace of mind. Backed by a 3-year warranty and Schneider Electric’s commitment to sustainability, the PM5U-UK offers professional-grade protection at an affordable price.
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