Type 3 point-of-use
Tripp Lite by Eaton ISOBAR6ULTRA
The metal-cased reference point-of-use strip: 3,330 joules, isolated filter banks, and a $50,000 insurance policy.
Best for
The point-of-use layer at your electronics
Specifications
| Rating | 3,330 joules, 6 outlets |
|---|---|
| UL 1449 | Listed, 5th Ed. 2021 |
| Let-through | 330 V UL 1449 rating |
| Filtering | 3 isolated banks, EMI/RFI filtered |
| Indicators | Protection present / line fault / line OK LEDs |
| Build | Metal housing, 6 ft cord, 12 A breaker |
| Warranty | Lifetime, $50,000 insurance |
Specifications as published by Tripp Lite by Eaton. Confirm against the current spec sheet before buying: manufacturers revise models without renaming them.
What's good
- All-metal build in a category of disposable plastic strips
- Diagnostic LEDs actually tell you protection state and wiring faults
- Isolated filter banks keep noisy loads from polluting quiet ones
What's not
- Point-of-use only: the last layer, not the first
- Metal chassis is larger and heavier than a plastic strip
Our verdict
The panel SPD can't see surges generated inside the house, which is most of them. This is the layer that does. One at the desk and one at the media stand completes the layered protection the panel device starts.
Compare with the alternatives
- Siemens BoltShield FSPD140: the default whole-house pick on any brand of panel
- Eaton CHSPT2ULTRA: a lifetime-warranty alternative at the top of the market
- Square D HEPD80: the proven value pick, especially on square d panels
- Leviton P2120-B: service-entrance installs and meter-adjacent mounting
- Intermatic AG3000: adding a protection layer at the ac condenser or heat pump