UPS

• The big risk
• So, what is a UPS and why do I need one?
• PC peril
• Types of UPS
• The smarter UPS
• Data line protection
• What about large installations?
• Selecting a UPS
• What's the cost

The choice of UPS for your equipment depends on several factors: the type of equipment you have; the number and size of equipment pieces to be protected (each possibly drawing a different amount of current); the features you require (eg, communication port and smart software); and the length of "uptime" you want in the event of an outage. Sizes and specifications of various units vary tremendously, so you need to carefully consult the specifications for each make/model you are considering, taking into account the amount of power your combined equipment will draw and the time that this equipment needs to be supported. Allow a generous safety margin. Thankfully, these calculations have been made a lot easier by several UPS manufacturers, which provide online guides using databases of real Volt-Amps and Watts (or Wattage)requirements of typical devices. Simply consult the relevant Web site and fill in an interactive sizing guide with your requirements to find a type of UPS that suits (see "Sizing it up", below). Choose the right UPS technology for your situation; for simple power outage protection, off-line is the most economical type of system, and online is recommended for larger system applications. While a UPS is a good idea for almost any computer system, for many household and small business applications which don't require a powered shutdown, such as entertainment systems, a UPS could be seen as overkill. In these cases, a device that provides surge protection, line filtering (and possibly telephone/data line protection) may be adequate.