PC hardware safety during thunderstorms: How can you completely protect a desktop or laptop computer from electrical-storm damage and surge entry through any connected cable?

Introduction / Context:
Electrical storms can inject large voltage spikes and common-mode surges into equipment through any conductive path. This question tests best-practice surge protection for PCs beyond basic power-strip usage.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A thunderstorm is in progress or imminent.
• The PC may have multiple external connections: AC mains, Ethernet, coax, phone/DSL, USB, peripherals, and printers.
• The goal is total protection, not just risk reduction.

Concept / Approach:

A surge can enter through any cable: power, network, coax, or phone lines. Surge protectors reduce risk but cannot guarantee protection from severe lightning-induced transients. The only way to ensure no energy path into the device is to physically disconnect every external cable, including the AC power cord and all data/communication lines.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Electrical safety guidelines consistently state that only complete disconnection ensures isolation from lightning surges. Surge protectors and UPS units add protection but cannot guarantee immunity during a direct or close strike.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Turn off AC power switch only: still connected; surge can couple through the cord.
• Use a surge protector: mitigates, does not guarantee total protection.
• Disconnect AC power cable only: data/coax/phone lines remain surge paths.
• None of the above: incorrect because full disconnection is correct.

Common Pitfalls:

Assuming a premium surge strip makes gear invincible; forgetting Ethernet or phone lines which often carry damaging surges; leaving laptop power bricks plugged in with the DC plug inserted.

Final Answer:

Disconnect all external cables and power cords