ALL electronic devices are simply motors. While you cannot see the moving parts of an electronic engine, they are moving nonetheless. And, like any engine, when running, they are subject to wear. Additionally, the electronic engine is also subject to fluctuating line voltages and power surges--something a mechanical engine is not vulnerable to.

Now, turning an electronic device on subjects it to surges as well, but that surge is usually suppressed by certain components in the power supply. The best rule of thumb is if it's not turned on, the engine is not running. If it's plugged in, you CAN get zapped when you least expect. And finally, NO surge suppressor on the planet can protect your equipment from a nearby lightning strike. If lightning hits the power line pole on your street you can bet your bottom dollar that everything that's plugged into a power outlet will probably get fried--even when connected through a surge suppressor. It should know--it has happened to me twice in the past 30 years.

Cheers,

Gary