Interference or fluctuations in the power supplied to these devices can cause crashes of computers and lighting boards, and in some cases permanent damage. Thus, it is desirable to use some sort of protection on the power line when plugging in these devices.
Most people are familiar with the concept of a surge suppresor for computers and other equipment.
Regular, inexpensive surge suppressing power strips can be used to provide a degree of protection for connected equipment. However, more expensive devices that provide more protection and filtering of the power line are available. These devices often come in rack-mount cases and provide several outlets for the connection of equipment. Some models even include a line voltage and current indicators that can be useful when connecting to an unfamiliar power source. These indicators can show faults on the power line before the first equipment is even turned on.