Uninterruptible Power Supplies , or UPS, are devices that maintain a
constant supply of power to any equipment connected to it.
Uninterruptible Power Supplies do this by supplying power from a
separate source when the original source of utility power is
unavailable, giving a host of benefits against disruptions. The UPS
systems basically sit between a power source, like a wall outlet, and a
device, like a computer. In the event of a power failure, the
uninterruptible power supply will provide the necessary power to the
device as a back-up. A UPS can be anything from a battery to a back-up
power generator: it is typically anything that helps a device remain
temporarily operational when power is interrupted. Uninterruptible power
supply generators are also anything that protects the device from
undesired aspects of the power source, like surges, outages, or sags.
There are two major types of uninterruptible power supplies 'off-line
which is called 'line interactive' and on-line for all your
power-solution needs. The off-line type will switch from the original
power source to its own power source instantly should a power failure
occur. By this method it keeps the device temporarily powered until the
original power source is available again, or its own power source runs
out. The on-line type continuously draws energy and stores it into
reserves, such as batteries, and will convert it into AC power for use
by the device when the original power source has failed. Typically
either system would also be backuped by a standby generator .
Uninterruptible power supplies should not be confused with standby
generators . Standby generators do not protect the devices they are
connected to from the undesirable features of power failure: the surges,
sags, or any other momentary interruption. However, standby generators
can assist a UPS in the event of lengthy power failures. In fact the
two systems are often incorporated in the design of emergency power
systems , larger systems of back-up power designed for crises that
include lighting, generators, and refrigeration that are utilized in
such places as hospitals and laboratories and ideal for medical and
mobility applications. A UPS system is the perfect device to guard
against power disturbances such as faults on the electric delivery
system, power line poles or lightning surges that can cause blackouts.
To prevent loss of data while working on a computer, install an
uninterruptible power supply. The slightest drop in power or a power
surge may cause your computer to freeze or automatically shut down,
both resulting in lost work, data and valuable time. Yet crisis
situations aren't the only power failures to be prepared for. One
should always protect the power that is used on a continuous basis:
computers are a good example of this. To determine what size of power
supply equipment you will need, consider how much energy you would need
should power fail. Also do you need disaster prevention as well A UPS
has a VA rating, voltsamps. The rating is the maximum amount of
voltamps it can deliver in a power failure . If you choose a UPS with
too small a VA rating, you will not be able to power your equipment;
however if you choose one with a larger VA rating than what you need,
this will be fine. You will just be able to power your equipment for
longer periods of time should it be necessary. Overall, it is better to
error on the side of a larger VA rating. You will want uninterruptible
power supplies with ratings that are large enough to deliver power to
all your necessary or vital equipment and allow for future growth of
additional equipment. PowerContinuity Means Business Continuity.
