TrickleStar TS1104 7-Outlet Advanced Energy Saving Surge Protector User Manual

1. Introduction

The TrickleStar TS1104 is a 7-outlet Advanced Energy Saving Surge Protector designed to reduce energy consumption and protect electronic devices from power surges. This device automatically manages power to peripheral equipment based on the power status of a primary 'control' device, helping to eliminate standby power waste.

2. Safety Guidelines

• Fireproof Surge Protection: This unit features ceramic-encased, Metal Oxide Varistors (MOV) for enhanced fire safety and surge protection. It is listed to UL 1449 and UL 1363 standards, ensuring performance and safety.
• Indoor Use Only: This product is intended for indoor use in dry locations.
• Proper Grounding: Ensure the wall outlet is properly grounded before plugging in the surge protector.
• Overload Protection: Do not overload the surge protector. The total current draw of connected equipment should not exceed the unit's maximum rating.
• Proposition 65 Warning: This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

3. Product Features and Components

The TrickleStar TS1104 features a distinct outlet configuration and status indicators:

• Control Outlet: One outlet designated for the primary device (e.g., TV, computer). Its power status dictates the power to the switched outlets.
• Always On Outlets: Two outlets that continuously supply power, regardless of the control device's status. Ideal for devices that require constant power (e.g., cable box, router).
• Switched Outlets: Four outlets whose power supply is automatically turned ON or OFF based on the control device's power status.
• LED Status Indicators:
  • Surge: Illuminates when surge protection is active.
  • Ground: Illuminates when the unit is properly grounded.
  • Switched: Illuminates when power is supplied to the switched outlets.
• Selectable Switching Threshold: A switch to adjust the power detection sensitivity for the control outlet (10W/22W/42W).
• Resettable Circuit Breaker: Provides overload protection.

Image: Top-down view of the TrickleStar TS1104, illustrating the layout of the Always On, Control, and Switched outlets, along with the Surge, Ground, and Switched LED indicators.

4. Installation and Setup

Follow these steps to set up your TrickleStar TS1104:

1. Plug in the Surge Protector: Connect the TrickleStar TS1104 to a standard 120V AC wall outlet. Ensure the Ground LED illuminates, indicating a proper ground connection.
2. Connect Control Device: Plug your primary device (e.g., TV, computer, gaming console) into the Control Outlet. This device's power state will control the switched outlets.
3. Connect Always On Devices: Plug devices that require continuous power (e.g., cable box, satellite receiver, router, network switch) into the Always On Outlets.
4. Connect Switched Devices: Plug peripheral devices that can safely have power removed when the control device is off (e.g., DVD/Blu-ray player, sound system, monitor, printer, external hard drive) into the Switched Outlets.
5. Adjust Switching Threshold: Locate the small switch on the side of the unit. Select the appropriate power threshold (10W, 22W, or 42W) for your control device. Start with the lowest setting (10W) and increase if the switched outlets do not reliably turn off when the control device is powered down.

Image: A diagram illustrating typical device connections to the Control, Always On, and Switched outlets of the TrickleStar TS1104, including examples for a TV system and home office setup.

Image: Side view of the TrickleStar TS1104, highlighting the adjustable switch for setting the power detection threshold (10W/22W/42W).

5. Operation

The TrickleStar TS1104 operates automatically to save energy:

• When the device plugged into the Control Outlet is turned ON, the TS1104 detects its power draw and automatically supplies power to the Switched Outlets. The Switched LED will illuminate.
• When the device plugged into the Control Outlet is turned OFF (or enters a low-power standby mode below the set threshold), the TS1104 detects the reduced power draw and automatically removes power from the Switched Outlets. The Switched LED will turn off.
• Devices connected to the Always On Outlets will receive continuous power regardless of the control device's status.

This automatic switching eliminates standby power consumption from peripheral devices, contributing to energy savings.

6. Maintenance

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your TrickleStar TS1104:

• Keep the unit clean and free from dust. Use a dry, soft cloth for cleaning.
• Do not expose the unit to moisture or extreme temperatures.
• Periodically inspect the power cord and outlets for any signs of damage. If damage is found, discontinue use and contact customer support.

7. Troubleshooting

• Switched Outlets do not turn ON/OFF:
  • Ensure the control device is fully powered ON or OFF.
  • Adjust the switching threshold switch (10W/22W/42W). Some devices, especially those with very low power consumption (e.g., certain thin laptops), may not draw enough power to reliably trigger the switching function at lower threshold settings. Try a higher threshold or use a different control device with higher power consumption.
  • Verify the control device is securely plugged into the Control Outlet.
• No power to any outlets:
  • Check if the surge protector is securely plugged into a working wall outlet.
  • Verify the wall outlet is supplying power by testing it with another device.
  • Check the resettable circuit breaker on the unit. If it has tripped, reset it.
• Surge LED is OFF:
  • If the Surge LED is off, it indicates that the surge protection components may have been compromised by a significant power surge. The unit may still function as a power strip, but surge protection is no longer active. It is recommended to replace the unit for continued surge protection.
• Ground LED is OFF:
  • This indicates an improper or missing ground connection. Ensure the wall outlet is properly grounded. Consult an electrician if necessary.

8. Technical Specifications

9. Warranty and Customer Support

For warranty information, technical assistance, or customer support, please refer to the official TrickleStar website or contact TrickleStar customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.