Is connecting a device's power cable through a wall socket electronically different from using a power strip

[SweetTasha]

Support agents for a computer inkjet printer that I own insist that I connect the printer directly to a wall socket, not through a power strip. Do the two types of connection actually differ electronically?

Thanks for your help.

[OceanBreeze]

At first, it might seem like there is no difference between using a wall outlet and using a power strip but there is: power strips usually have  built-in surge protectors while the wall outlet more than likely has no surge protection.

I am a strong believer in surge protectors as they have protected my electronics both at sea (lightening strikes) and on shore (power surges from the mains supply).

In my opinion, the support agents don’t know what they are talking about since it is only laser printers that require to be on a separate circuit because they draw a lot of current which can cause problems for other equipment on the same circuit.

You have an inkjet printer so it can be plugged in anywhere you like, and should be plugged into a circuit with a surge protector.

However, I would not plug it into a UPS; except for the UPS bypass, which is a conditioned line with surge protection.

If the support agents tell you your printer’s warranty will be invalid if you use a power strip, then go ahead and use a wall outlet (or at least tell them you are doing so). If the printer is located in your own home, nobody is going to drop in for an unannounced inspection!