1. Introduction
The TrickleStar 183TS-US-8XX 8 Outlet Timer PowerStrip is designed to provide surge protection and time-based control for your electronic devices. This power strip is suitable for various home and office applications, including managing lighting, office equipment, and other peripherals. It helps in scheduling device operation for convenience and potential energy savings. This manual provides instructions for proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your power strip.
2. Important Safety Information
Please read all safety instructions before using this product. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or damage to the product.
- Do not exceed the electrical ratings of the power strip.
- Do not use in wet environments or near water.
- This product is intended for indoor use only.
- Do not disassemble or modify the power strip.
- Ensure the power strip is plugged into a properly grounded outlet.
- Keep children away from the power strip and connected devices.
- Do not use with aquariums or other water-related products unless specifically rated for such use.
3. Product Overview
The TrickleStar 183TS-US-8XX features eight outlets, a mechanical timer, and surge protection. It is designed for ease of use and reliability.
Key Features:
- 8 Outlets: Four (4) switched outlets controlled by the timer and four (4) always-on outlets.
- Mechanical Timer: 24-hour programmable timer for automated control of switched outlets.
- Surge Protection: Protects connected devices from power surges.
- Resettable Circuit Breaker: Provides overload protection.
- LED Status Indication: Indicators for Ground, Surge Status, and Power.
- Noise Filtering: Less than 40dB noise filtering.
- Heavy Duty Power Cable: Durable 4-foot power cord.
Component Identification:

Figure 1: Front view of the power strip. This image displays the central timer dial, the four outlets outlined in green indicating they are timer-controlled (switched), and the four outlets outlined in grey indicating they are continuously powered (always on). LED indicators for power, ground, and surge protection are also visible.

Figure 2: Angled view of the power strip. This perspective highlights the timer dial and the arrangement of the eight outlets. The red master power switch, located on the side of the unit, is also clearly visible.

Figure 3: Angled view of the power strip with its power cord. This image shows the entire unit, including the integrated 4-foot power cord and its standard three-prong plug, ready for connection to a wall outlet.
4. Setup Instructions
4.1 Placement
- Place the power strip on a flat, stable surface, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture.
- Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.
4.2 Connecting to Power
- Ensure the master power switch on the side of the power strip is in the OFF position.
- Plug the power strip's 4-foot cord into a standard, grounded 3-prong wall outlet.
- Flip the master power switch to the ON position. The 'Power' LED indicator should illuminate.
4.3 Setting the Timer
The power strip features a 24-hour mechanical timer. The timer controls the four 'switched' outlets (typically marked with a green border).
- Set Current Time: Rotate the outer dial of the timer clockwise until the current time aligns with the arrow indicator (usually a small triangle or line) at the center of the dial. The dial is marked with hours (e.g., 1-24 or 1-12 AM/PM).
- Program ON/OFF Periods: The timer dial has small segments (pins) around its circumference. Each segment typically represents a 15-minute or 30-minute interval.
- To set a period when the switched outlets should be ON, push the corresponding segments inward towards the center of the dial.
- To set a period when the switched outlets should be OFF, leave the corresponding segments in the outward position.
- Connect Devices: Plug devices you wish to control by the timer into the 'switched' outlets. Plug devices that require continuous power into the 'always on' outlets.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Master Power Switch
The red master power switch on the side of the unit controls power to all eight outlets. Ensure it is in the ON position for the power strip to function.
5.2 LED Indicators
- Power LED (e.g., Green): Illuminates when the power strip is receiving power and the master switch is ON.
- Surge Status LED (e.g., Red): Illuminates when surge protection is active. If this LED is off, the surge protection may have been compromised, and the unit should be replaced.
- Ground LED (e.g., Green): Illuminates when the power strip is properly grounded. If this LED is off, there may be a grounding issue with your wall outlet, and you should consult a qualified electrician.
6. Maintenance
6.1 Cleaning
To clean the power strip, ensure it is unplugged from the wall outlet and all devices are disconnected. Use a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or abrasive materials.
6.2 Resetting the Circuit Breaker
The power strip is equipped with a resettable circuit breaker to protect against overloads. If the power strip stops providing power to connected devices, the circuit breaker may have tripped.
- Unplug all devices from the power strip.
- Locate the circuit breaker button (often a small black or red button) on the side or back of the unit.
- Press the button firmly to reset the breaker. It should click into place.
- Plug the power strip back into the wall outlet and reconnect your devices one by one to identify the overloaded device, if any.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power to any outlets. | Master power switch is OFF. Circuit breaker tripped. Wall outlet has no power. | Ensure master switch is ON. Reset circuit breaker (see Section 6.2). Test wall outlet with another device. |
| Switched outlets not turning ON/OFF as programmed. | Timer not set correctly. Current time not aligned. Timer segments not pushed in/out correctly. | Verify current time setting. Re-check timer segments for ON/OFF periods (see Section 4.3). |
| Surge Status LED is OFF. | Surge protection has been compromised. | The power strip has absorbed a significant surge and can no longer provide surge protection. Replace the unit. |
| Ground LED is OFF. | Wall outlet is not properly grounded. | Consult a qualified electrician to inspect your wall outlet's grounding. |
| Overload indication (power cuts off). | Too many devices or high-power devices connected. | Reduce the number of connected devices or use lower-power devices. Reset circuit breaker (see Section 6.2). |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | TrickleStar |
| Model Number | 183TS-US-8XX |
| Number of Outlets | 8 (4 Switched, 4 Always On) |
| Surge Protection | 720 Joules |
| Cord Length | 4-Foot |
| Material | Plastic |
| Colour | White |
| UPC | 859244003328 |
| GTIN | 00859244003328 |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official TrickleStar website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.





