Final answer:
A surge protector is the device that shields computer circuits from electrical surges. It uses components like inductors or capacitors to dampen high-frequency noise and prevent damage to the equipment. Other protective devices include GFIs and isolation transformers, offering additional safety measures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The piece of equipment that protects a computer's fragile circuits from damage by excessive electrical surges is known as a surge protector. Surge protectors work by redirecting excess electrical voltage away from the devices plugged into it, thereby preventing potential damage from overvoltage that can occur during events such as lightning strikes or power line faults.
Surge protectors often incorporate components with large inductance or capacitance to filter out high-frequency noise that could harm computer circuits. Inductance, commonly through the use of inductors, is utilized to impede sudden changes in current, while capacitors store the excess electrical energy and release it slowly, preventing it from overwhelming the computer's power supply.
Ground fault interrupters (GFIs) and isolation transformers are other safety devices used to minimize electrical hazards. GFIs cut off power when detecting a loss of current to an unintentional path, and isolation transformers protect users from electric shock by ensuring the device is not directly connected to the power source.