Introduction
The Furman PL-8C is an advanced level power conditioner designed to protect and optimize the performance of your electronic equipment. It features Furman's exclusive Series Multi-Stage Protection (SMP), Linear Filtering Technology (LiFT), and Extreme Voltage Shutdown (EVS) to provide comprehensive power protection and noise reduction. This unit includes nine AC outlets, dual retractable LED lights for rack illumination, and isolated outlet banks to minimize inter-component interference.
Safety Information
Please read and understand all safety instructions before operating the Furman PL-8C. Failure to do so may result in injury or damage to the unit or connected equipment.
- Grounding: Always connect the PL-8C to a grounded three-prong AC outlet. Do not defeat the grounding plug.
- Power Source: Ensure the power source voltage matches the unit's requirements (120V AC, 60Hz for North American models).
- Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. Do not operate near water.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit. Do not block ventilation openings.
- Servicing: Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Do not attempt to service this unit yourself.
- Overloading: Do not overload the unit. The total current draw of all connected equipment must not exceed 15 Amps.
Features
- Series Multi-Stage Protection (SMP): Provides surge and spike protection without sacrificing itself in the process.
- Linear Filtering Technology (LiFT): Reduces AC line noise, ensuring consistent audio and video clarity.
- Extreme Voltage Shutdown (EVS): Protects equipment from sustained over-voltage conditions by safely shutting down the unit.
- 9 AC Outlets: Eight rear panel outlets and one front panel convenience outlet.
- Dual Retractable LED Lights: Front panel pull-out lights with dimmer control for rack illumination.
- Isolated Outlet Banks: Minimizes inter-component interference and noise contamination between connected devices.
- 15 Amp Rating: Features a high inrush magnetic circuit breaker for added protection.
Setup
Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully remove the PL-8C from its packaging. Inspect the unit for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. If damage is found, contact your dealer immediately.
Rack Mounting
The PL-8C is designed for standard 19-inch rack mounting. Secure the unit using four rack screws (not included) through the front panel mounting ears. Ensure the rack provides adequate ventilation.
Connecting to Power
Plug the attached AC power cord of the PL-8C into a properly grounded 120V AC, 60Hz wall outlet. Ensure the outlet is capable of supplying 15 Amps.
Connecting Equipment
Connect your electronic equipment to the AC outlets on the rear panel of the PL-8C. The outlets are divided into isolated banks to reduce noise. For optimal performance, connect sensitive audio/video equipment to separate banks from high-current or digital devices. A front panel outlet is available for temporary connections.

Image: Rear panel of the Furman PL-8C, illustrating the eight AC outlets, the main power cord, and the circuit breaker reset button. Note the two isolated outlet banks.
Operating Instructions
Powering On/Off
Press the main power switch on the front panel to turn the unit on or off. When the unit is on, the front panel outlets and rear panel outlets will be energized.

Image: Front view of the Furman PL-8C, highlighting the main power switch, the retractable LED lights, and the dimmer control knob.
Using the LED Rack Lights
The PL-8C features two retractable LED lights on the front panel. Pull them out to illuminate your rack equipment. The "LAMP DIMMER" knob controls the brightness of these lights. Rotate the knob clockwise to increase brightness and counter-clockwise to decrease it.
Indicator Lights
- Protection OK (Green LED): This indicator illuminates when the PL-8C's surge protection circuitry is functioning correctly. If this light is off, the protection circuit has been compromised, and the unit should be serviced.
- Extreme Voltage Shutdown (Red LED): This indicator illuminates when the input voltage exceeds safe operating levels, and the EVS circuit has shut down power to the outlets. The unit will automatically restore power once the voltage returns to a safe range.

Image: Angled front view of the Furman PL-8C, detailing the indicator lights for SMP (Series Multi-Stage Protection), EVS (Extreme Voltage Shutdown), and LiFT (Linear Filtering Technology).
Maintenance
Cleaning
Clean the exterior of the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
Circuit Breaker
The PL-8C is equipped with a 15 Amp thermal circuit breaker located on the rear panel. If the total current draw of your connected equipment exceeds 15 Amps, the breaker will trip, cutting power to the outlets. To reset, disconnect some equipment, then push the circuit breaker button back in.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power to outlets. | Unit is off, circuit breaker tripped, or no power from wall outlet. | Ensure main power switch is on. Check and reset the rear panel circuit breaker. Verify wall outlet has power. |
| "Protection OK" LED is off. | Surge protection circuit has been compromised. | The unit still functions as a power strip, but surge protection is no longer active. Contact Furman support for service. |
| "Extreme Voltage Shutdown" LED is on. | Input voltage is too high. | The unit has automatically shut down power. It will restore power when the voltage returns to a safe level. Investigate the power source for voltage issues. |
| Noise or hum in audio equipment. | Ground loop or AC line noise. | Ensure all equipment is properly grounded. Try connecting sensitive equipment to different isolated outlet banks. The LiFT technology should reduce common AC line noise. |
Specifications
- AC Current Capacity: 15 Amps
- Operating Voltage: 90 to 139 Volts AC
- Spike Protection: Furman's Series Multi-Stage Protection (SMP)
- Noise Filtration: Furman's Linear Filtering Technology (LiFT)
- Over-Voltage Shutdown: Furman's Extreme Voltage Shutdown (EVS)
- Outlets: 9 (1 front panel, 8 rear panel)
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 1.75" x 19" x 10.5" (4.45 cm x 48.26 cm x 26.67 cm)
- Weight: 8 lbs (3.63 kg)
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Manufacturer: Furman Pro
- Model Number: PL8C
- Date First Available: October 26, 2008
Note: Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Furman website. You may also contact Furman customer service directly for assistance.
- Website: www.furmanpower.com (Example, actual link may vary)
- Customer Service: Refer to product packaging or website for contact details.





