Issue 39.16
A couple of months ago we talked about how important a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) or battery backup is for your computer related electronics. Things like flat panel TVs, DVD Players, gaming systems and, of course, computers will all last longer and work better if they are protected from low voltage, sudden power outages, surges and spikes. A UPS not only does those things, it conditions the electricity so no static or “dirty power” can cause trouble for your electronics. I use them on all my critical equipment.
The cost on these units is significant but not expensive. Small units that can keep power on for your equipment for 10 to 15 minutes cost about $40. More powerful units run from $60-$250 and more depending on how long you want the reserve power to last and how many things are plugged into it.
All of these units run on a large battery that makes up most of the size and weight of the UPS. The battery actually provides the power to your computer, but is always being recharged by the power from your wall jack. As with all rechargeable batteries, they eventually are unable to recharge sufficiently to power your equipment. When the voltage dips below a certain level, the unit shuts off and an alarm usually sounds that is a consistent beeping noise.
At this point, you have a choice. You can bypass the UPS and plug into the wall which leaves you unprotected. You can buy a new UPS unit. But, you can also buy a replacement battery from a number of battery sources. If you opt for the low end (10 minute) version, you are likely better off to purchase another one locally rather than trying to replace the battery. The cost is pretty close and you have a newer and probably better UPS. With the higher end units though, it is likely you can save some money by ordering the replacement battery and replacing the failed battery in the unit. Some of the better but still reasonable UPSs run near $100 or more. The replacement batteries can be purchased online for around $30- $40. Because these batteries are heavy, shipping is a concern and can run from $6 to $15, but even with that, you can save cash.
Replacing them is not usually terribly difficult and there are online tutorials to guide you if you have trouble. Some people I know of have chosen to wire a more expensive and powerful 12 volt battery into their existing UPS to give them more reserve time. One fellow bought a golf cart battery and wired it into his UPS. He reports that he can run off the battery for a couple of hours in a power failure. I cannot advise that you do this and I am sure it voids the warranty on both your UPS and your computer, but he told me it is very easy and safe if you are careful.
One quick note of caution. Battery backups are not designed for the high peak power required for laser printers, vacuum cleaners, air conditioners, refrigerators and other items using high speed, high torque motors or compressors. There are power backup systems that can run these such as whole house or business automatic generators or multi-battery installations, but they are very expensive and you would want to get professional help to design your system. For most of us, it is best to just protect the regular equipment we have – and remember to always have a backup of anything important.
Shaun McCausland has worked in the computer industry for over 33 years, 26 years of it locally with Bits ‘N’ Bytes and Musicomp and currently works as a computer consultant. If you have questions you can reach him at 435-668-7118 or shaun@musicomp.net.