Sunday, October 26, 2014

What To Look For When Choosing UPS

By Armando Rodriguez


Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is an electronic device that offers battery backup service to computers or other devices during power interruptions. They therefore allow your devices to shut down safely in case of power outages. Another function of UPS is to protect your device from over-voltages and brow-outs. Choosing UPS system that suits your need can improve performance of your devices.

You need to put into consideration the power output of the UPS system as compared to your devices power consumption. Buy a backup system that can support all devices including wireless routers that demand much power. Furthermore, choose a backup system that can alert you about power shortcomings such as over-voltages, blowouts or power insufficiencies. That said, you might need to invest a little more to get the best UPS system.

Another important factor to consider is the backup run time which determines how long the UPS will supply power. Some UPS might last for a short period of less than 30 minutes depending on its power output. Desktop computers require more power that the laptop. The UPS should offer a long period of use and should not cut power supply without an alert. This may damage your computer or devices.

Also consider how the UPS detects when battery backup support should be activated. UPS systems can be grouped into 3 categories depending on power tolerance. A standby mode UPS system will only use battery power when power supply drops under a certain limit, say below 120 volts. In terms of cost, this type of power backup is relatively cheaper and more users basically consider buying it.

There is also an on-line interactive type that has an inbuilt transformer that controls the AC voltage when too high or too low. This ensures that the device battery will be used only when incoming power supply drops too low. Too much power interruptions can damage your battery as the UPS keeps on switching to battery. This will reduce your battery usage lifetime and the battery capacity.

There is also a dual conversion type UPS system that is the most advanced battery protection and backup mode. Power is broken down to DC and perfectly reconstructed to AC by the inverter with no transfer switching time. The process will eliminate any incoming line noise or surge, as it adjusts to high or low voltages and produces perfect AC power. This will ensure that your battery power remains intact unless when there are power outages.

You would also need to consider the UPS system power output power. Cheap UPS may not output the actual sine wave AC power but instead converts battery power to square wave AC. devices like computer and monitors may have no issue with the square wave AC power but others devices like wireless routers might breakdown or get damaged. Dual-conversion UPS are the most efficient but they do cost more money.

Lastly, find out the specifications of the power backup system in terms of number and nature of power outlet ports. You will need a backup system that can protect your battery and computer from power outages and blowouts results. Some cheaper systems have outlets that offer protection for only electrical noise and surges. Also consider whether the system has other ports that are fully protected from electrical risks. Such ports may include the Ethernet, phone jack and other cable outlets.




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