Issue 30.14
Yes, I know it is a shipping company – but in the computer world it is something else and you probably need one or two. UPS stands for Uninterrupted Power Supply. It is basically a battery backup unit that can power your computer or television or other electronic devices for a period of time if the power goes out. But that is not all it does. These units are about the size of a large brick and just about as heavy.
They not only provide steady 110-120 volt power to your electronics, but they also condition the power you receive. That means the power is “clean” or without serious static or fluctuations that can create problems in microprocessors. Since everything from refrigerators, televisions, stereo systems, printers, monitors and yes, computers use microprocessors, it is a good idea to consider having a UPS in use – especially for critical components or equipment.
UPS units also protect you from surges, lightning strikes and brown outs (low voltage) which happen here a lot when the weather is either very hot or very cold. Low voltage is very rough on electronics so these are especially useful for big screen TVs and computers since they are the most sensitive to voltage fluctuations.
Companies that sell these include APC, Tripplite and Belkin. You can find them at BestBuy, Staples, Costco and sometimes Wal-Mart and Kmart. Prices are based on how long they will run your equipment after the power goes out. Most units that will run a computer and monitor for 15-20 minutes are available in the $45-$60 range and those that last longer are a little higher priced. There are very powerful UPS products that run $200 or more and can last for 1 or 2 hours, but that is more than most people need.
A couple of informational issues need to be mentioned. Most laser printers draw too much power and have to be plugged into the wall, not the UPS. They will usually shut off your UPS by tripping the internal breaker/safety switch. You can run your network cable and phone cable through many of them which will give you added protection from lighting strikes on those cables. Make sure whatever one you buy has an equipment replacement guarantee (they will replace any equipment damaged by a power outage or spike if you are connected correctly). They do not guarantee your data however, so even if you buy one, you should be sure to always back up anything on your computer that is important to you.
Shaun McCausland has worked in the computer industry for over 32 years, 25 years of it locally with Bits ‘N’ Bytes and Musicomp and currently does in-home and on-site computer consultation, service, training and repair. If you have questions you can reach him at 435-668-7118 or shaun@musicomp.net.