TrickleStar TS1003 / 180SS-US-7XX Advanced Powerstrip Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The TrickleStar TS1003 / 180SS-US-7XX Advanced Powerstrip is designed to help reduce energy waste by automatically cutting power to peripheral devices when the main control device (like a TV or PC) is turned off. This helps combat 'vampire' or standby power consumption, which can account for a significant portion of household utility bills. It also provides premium quality surge protection for connected electronic equipment.

Figure 1: Top-down view of the TrickleStar Advanced Powerstrip, showing all 7 outlets and indicator lights.

2. Key Features

• Fireproof Surge Protection: Provides 2160 Joules of surge protection for all connected devices.
• 7 Outlets: Includes 1 Control Outlet, 2 Always On Outlets (one transformer-spaced), and 4 Switched Outlets.
• Selectable Switching Thresholds: Adjustable thresholds of 10W, 22W, or 42W to ensure compatibility with various PCs and TVs.
• LED Status Indication: Features LED indicators for Ground, Surge Status, Control, and Switched Outlets, providing clear operational feedback.
• Noise Filtering: Less than 40dB noise filtering for cleaner power.
• Child Protection Covers: Integrated covers help prevent accidental insertion of objects into unused outlets.
• Heavy-Duty Power Cord: Equipped with a robust 4 ft cord rated to 15 Amps and high-quality flat plugs for durability and safe placement.
• UL94 V-0 Rated Plastic Material: Constructed with highly flame-resistant plastic for enhanced safety.

Figure 2: Detailed view of the powerstrip's outlets, showing 'always on', 'control', and 'switched' sections.

3. Safety Information

Electrical safety is paramount. Incorrect use of power strips can lead to serious hazards, including fires. Please observe the following safety guidelines:

• Avoid Daisy Chaining: Never plug one power strip into another. This can overload circuits and create a fire hazard.
• Prevent Overloading: Do not plug too many devices into the power strip, especially high-current devices. Ensure the total wattage of connected devices does not exceed the power strip's rating.
• Proper Placement: Do not place the power strip near moisture, water, or in outdoor environments. It is designed for indoor use only.
• High Current Loads: Appliances such as air conditioners, space heaters, and refrigerators should NEVER be plugged into a power strip. These devices require direct connection to a wall receptacle due to their high power draw.
• UL Certified Products: Always use UL or ETL certified power strips. TrickleStar products are certified to the latest UL safety standards, and our factory is inspected and certified annually by UL.
• Check LED Indicators: Regularly check the LED indicators for Surge, Ground, and Switched status. Proper grounding is essential for surge protection to function correctly.
• Child Safety: The integrated child safety protection covers help prevent children from inserting objects into unused outlets.

4. Setup and Installation

1. Unpack: Carefully remove the power strip from its packaging.
2. Inspect: Check the power strip for any signs of damage. Do not use if damaged.
3. Plug into Wall Outlet: Plug the power strip directly into a properly grounded 240 Volt wall receptacle. Avoid using extension cords with the power strip.
4. Connect Control Device: Plug your main device (e.g., TV, PC) into the designated Control Outlet.
5. Connect Switched Devices: Plug peripheral devices (e.g., DVD player, sound system, monitor, printer) into the Switched Outlets. These devices will automatically turn on/off with your control device.
6. Connect Always On Devices: Plug devices that require continuous power (e.g., modem, router, DVR) into the Always On Outlets.
7. Set Threshold: Adjust the selectable switching threshold (10W/22W/42W) on the power strip to match the standby power consumption of your control device. This ensures accurate detection for automatic switching.
8. Verify Indicators: Ensure the Ground and Surge Status LEDs are illuminated, indicating proper grounding and active surge protection.

Figure 3: Bottom view of the powerstrip, highlighting the safety screws and mounting holes for secure installation.

5. Operating Instructions

Once properly set up, operating the TrickleStar Advanced Powerstrip is straightforward:

• Automatic Switching: When you turn ON your control device (e.g., TV or PC) plugged into the Control Outlet, the power strip will sense the power draw and automatically activate the Switched Outlets, turning on all connected peripheral devices.
• Energy Saving: When you turn OFF your control device, the power strip will detect the reduced power draw and automatically cut power to the Switched Outlets, eliminating standby power consumption from connected peripherals.
• Always On Outlets: Devices plugged into the Always On Outlets will receive continuous power regardless of the control device's status.
• Circuit Breaker: In case of an overload, the integrated circuit breaker will trip to protect your devices and the power strip. To reset, unplug some devices and press the circuit breaker button.

6. Maintenance

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your TrickleStar Advanced Powerstrip:

• Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the power strip, cord, and plugs for any signs of wear, damage, or overheating.
• Cleanliness: Keep the power strip clean and free from dust and debris. Use a dry cloth for cleaning; never use liquids.
• Avoid Obstruction: Ensure the power strip is not covered or placed in a way that obstructs ventilation, which could lead to overheating.
• Surge Protection Status: Monitor the Surge Status LED. If it is off, the surge protection has been consumed and the power strip should be replaced to ensure continued protection for your devices.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

• Model Number: 180SS-US-7XX
• Manufacturer: TrickleStar
• Total Power Outlets: 7 (1 Control, 2 Always On, 4 Switched)
• Surge Protection: 2160 Joules
• Voltage: 240 Volts (AC)
• Plug Format: Type B
• Cord Length: 4 ft
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 15 x 2.5 x 1.25 inches
• Item Weight: 3.5 pounds
• Material: Durable plastic casing with internal ceramic-encased components.
• Usage: Indoor use only

9. Warranty and Support

TrickleStar offers a Lifetime Warranty on this product. Additionally, it includes a Connected Device Warranty of up to $20,000, providing peace of mind for your connected equipment. Unlike many manufacturers, TrickleStar does not require product registration for the warranty to be valid.

For further assistance or inquiries, please contact TrickleStar customer service:

• Phone: 1-888-700-1098
• Email: customer.service@tricklestar.com

TrickleStar maintains comprehensive product liability insurance through Lloyd's of London, offering up to $8 million per occurrence, which is recognized as the most comprehensive product liability insurance coverage in the market.