Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does Standby Saver work?

A: Please see our ‘Product Details’ page.

Q: Help. I have lost my instructions that came with my purchase.

A: Standby Saver is available in two versions: one for use with Infra red remote controlled electrical appliances, the second for use with USB port products. The Infra red version (green colour box) can be operated using any appliance that is controlled with an IR remote control e.g. TV, DVD, VCR stereo and games console. The USB version  (blue colour box) can be operated with any device that has a USB port e.g. PC, laptop, printer and speakers.

Q: Why is Standby Saver better than other devices on the market?

A: This amazing British invention was seen first on BBC’s Dragons' Den and was the first product ever to receive approval from all five dragons. Standby Saver is unique because it cuts 100% of the standby power used by TVs, Hi-Fis, VCRs and DVDs. It cuts 100% of the power to PCs and printers and speakers.

It is rated at a full 13A, unlike other products with only 10A support.

It has 6 sockets, two of which are flexible so that DVD recorders and other essential appliances with a timer can be left on.

It is easy to use. The Infra red version takes 15 seconds to program and the USB version is simply plug in and play.

The Infra red version uses your existing remote – there is no need for another one!

Unlike the competition, Standby Saver has no need for ‘master’ and ‘slave’ devices. Ironically for these products to work, the ‘master’ device has to be always left on!

There is no internal battery – so no environmental issues arise from battery disposal.

Q: Do I need special software to use my Standby Saver device on my computer?

A: There is no special driver software required for use with your computer. Simply plug your PC, monitor, scanner, printer and speakers into your Standby Saver.

Q: Can I use Standby Saver with my laptop?

A: Yes. Standby Saver is particularly compatible with a laptop and docking station where Standby Saver can switch off the power to the docking station and other associated devices e.g. printers and monitors.

Q: We have a TV/DVD recorder/Sky set-up. We can turn the TV off but the DVD and Sky have to be left on stand-by. Would the Standby Saver work for this?

A: Some devices cannot be switched off completely. A DVD recorder that is recording on a timer must remain on ordinary standby power for the timer to work. Sky+ and Sky HD should also be left on standby for the same reason. Sky can be fully switched off using Standby Saver, but may take approximately 30 seconds to become fully operational once switched back on using Standby Saver. This is due to the way in which Sky works.

Two of the Standby Saver’s six sockets can be continuously powered when left in the ‘switched’ position. This could be used for Sky+ or a DVD recorder.

Q: We have issues with our home office system of computers /printers /remote hard drives where some have to be left on standby. How would this work?

A: Certain computer equipment such as remote hard drives and network-attached storage may need to be left switched on. If you are sure that such a device will never need to be used when the main PC is not being used, Standby Saver could be used to switch them off.

Always consult the manufacturer’s manual to ensure hard disk drives can be safely switched off. Two of the Standby Saver’s six sockets can be continuously powered when left in the ‘switched’ position.

Q: I have a HDD DVD recorder. Will Standby Saver affect pre-programmed recording? In effect will it allow my DVD to switch back on and record automatically?

A:  Plug the DVD recorder into one of the two ‘switched’ sockets on the Standby Saver with the switch in the mains position. This will leave your device in ordinary standby i.e. with no power saving. This is essential for your recorder to work.

Q: Does Standby Saver have surge protection?

A: Surge reduction is fitted.