Choosing an uninterruptible power supply

November 21, 11:48 AMGadgets ExaminerDan Appleman

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It looks like an oversized surge protector
but does much more

The amount of power used by an electronic device is measured in watts. Most electronic equipment will include the power requirements somewhere in the specifications or on the label. Here are the power requirements for some common equipment:

• Xbox 360 or PS3 – about 180 watts (less for newer models)
• Desktop computer – 500 watts
• DVR – typically under 100 watts
• External hard drive – typically under 50 watts

You’ll want to choose a UPS that has a power rating greater than the total load you’re going to plug in. Most UPS equipment will give you at least a few minutes of operating time at that load – but that is plenty of time to save what you are working on and shut down the equipment safely. If the equipment you plug has a lower demand, the backup time will be longer.

When you set up your UPS be sure to follow the instructions. You’ll probably have to connect the battery – the instructions will show you how. Also keep in mind that most UPS’s have some outlets that are connected to the battery backup and others that are only surge protected.

Your UPS will probably also come with a USB port. Plug it into your computer and your computer can be set up to automatically shut down when the power goes out. If you don’t do this, remember to plug your display into the UPS as well so you can see what you are doing while you are manually shutting down the computer.

American Power Conversion (APC) makes some of the most popular UPS systems. They come in various sizes and have user-replaceable batteries (a battery typically lasts a few years). They also come with an insurance policy - $75,000 if your equipment is fried by a surge while connected to their UPS.

Cyberpower also has an excellent line of UPS systems, often at better price points than comparable APC devices.

Recommended for DVRs and games

• 390W/685VA - Cyberpower CP685AVR UPS 8 outlet
• 330W/550VA – Back-UPS ES 8 outlet
• 390W/650VA – Back-UPS ES 10 outlet

Recommended for computers

• 600W/1000VA - CyberPower CP1000AVRLCD 9 Outlet
• 900W/1500VA - Cyberpower CP1500AVRLCD 8 Outlet
• 540W/900VA – APC BR900 7 Outlet
• 865W/1500VA – Back-UPS 8 Outlet

Here’s a hint – there are many models available. If you’re getting one on Amazon.com, look for one in the power range you’re looking for that qualifies for free shipping (these things are heavy!).

Part I – Uninterruptible power supplies vs. surge protectors – which do you need?

Part II – Uninterruptible power supplies – your hard drive’s best friend