Every time I write about Conway Electric, I receive multiple comments like this:
I can’t believe how much they charge for a surge protector. I can make that thing from off-the-shelf parts for $20 tops.
What’s important to know is this: None of these butthead amateur sparkys have ever managed to make one of these surge protectors from off-the-shelf-parts for $20. I’ve challenged them to do it. I’ve requested photos of their work. I’ve offered to feature their work on the blog. Instead, here’s what I get:
Crickets.
These commenters are the same people who say that infill planes can be made from a piece of steel U-channel, a hunk of Southern yellow pine and a Stanley plane iron they found in the street. Price: less than $25 and better than a Spiers. Sure thing, buddy.
I’ve long been a fan of Conway Electric stuff, especially their surge protectors (the Exto Surge 900 is a fixture on my bench and Megan’s bench). Before I bought my first Exto four years ago, I’d had my fill of surge protectors from office supply stores. Even the expensive ones (more expensive than an Exto) are too fragile for a shop environment.
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