An unexpected increase in the amplitude of a signal that lasts for two or less nanoseconds anything more is considered a surge. If not properly protected, a power spike can cause damage to any electrical component, including a computer.

Hardware devices such as surge protectors are designed help prevent any surges and spikes from damaging any electrical equipment by. All electrical devices, including your computer, should have a surge protector to help prevent them from becoming damaged when an electrical surge occurs.

Lag spike, Power terms, Spike guard, Surge, Voltage drop