Hello all you electrical wizards out there  -

I need to know the difference between generator with and without an inverter. My understanding is you can't run electronics like computers, TV, or anything with logic circuits unless you have an inverter without damaging the electronics in the product. Apparently you can only run things like refridgerators, microwaves, blenders, portable heaters, lights and stoves, dumb appliances and anything with a motor is OK. Is this correct?

Assuming that...

Will a surge protector on the end of an extension cord take the place of an inverter, or is that something totally different and won't work to prevent damage?  Will a backup UPS between a portable generator and computer, etc, suffice? Is there any way to make this work if my generator doesn't have a built in inverter?

Thanks

I'd ask this in the survival forum, you'd probably have better results.  But My .02 is surge supressor in this case is worthless.  The UPS may work, but only if they accept the power coming in as clean enough.

The power coming from the 'cheap' generators isn't a perfect sine curve or something like that.  That means it is dirty power and can easily handle anything non-electronic.  If you use a UPS between the generator and your computer I'm guessing that could help.  It has to be a good UPS, not one of the cheap ones you get at staples...

This is probably discussed in the survival forum in the Generator FAQ.   Go check there too.