UPS

The UPS device protects the computer, server, and network equipment during power outages and voltage spikes. Instead of the computer shutting down suddenly, you have time to save your work and shut it down normally. Here you will find compact UPS for home computers, models for office and server racks, online UPS for sensitive equipment, and inverters for solar and standalone systems.

How to choose

• Power. Sum the power of everything you will be powering – computer, monitor, router – and add a reserve of at least 20–30%. Look at the power in watts, not just in VA, because it shows the actual load that the UPS can handle.
• Type. Offline UPS is the simplest and only activates during a power outage. The line-interactive type smooths out voltage drops without switching to battery – the best choice for home and office. Online UPS provides a constant clean current and is for servers and sensitive equipment.
• Signal form. A pure sine wave is the safest for modern power supplies with active power factor correction (PFC), which most gaming computers have.
• Runtime. A standard UPS provides a few minutes for saving and shutting down. For longer operation without power, there are models with external batteries.
• Management. USB or network connection allows the computer to shut down automatically when the battery runs out. The LCD display shows the load and battery status.

What to watch out for

• Do not connect a laser printer, heater, or air conditioner to the UPS – they have high consumption peaks.
• Batteries wear out and need to be replaced every few years – check if they are easy to replace.
• Rack models have a 19-inch format and are mounted with rails.
• Check the type of outlets – Schuko or IEC – and whether they are sufficient for all your devices.
• Inverters convert current from a battery to 230 V and are used in solar systems and standalone power supplies.

Compatibility

Powerful computers with high-end graphics cards can have short consumption peaks, so for them choose a UPS with a pure sine wave and a larger reserve. Power the router and modem through the UPS to avoid losing internet during a brief interruption. For devices that do not require backup power, a power strip with surge protection is sufficient.