Summary: UPS devices that can be placed by your PC on your desktop are the most commonly used ones as they fit conveniently and will give power to the PC in the event of a power failure. The ideal protection against brownouts and spikes, however is not provided by this. This is the reason why you need to have a proper UPS system that can supply energy as well as shield your PC.
An UPS system is basically an on-line system that has the ability to transform AC power from the main source to DC power to be stored in the battery and back to AC power to be supplied to connected equipments during an unexpected power failure. This kind of an UPS system is capable of providing an uninterrupted power supply along with complete security against brownouts and spikes.
UPS systems generally refer to more than one UPS working in conjunction with another UPS, thereby providing superfluous energy and better security to equipments. Power is stored in the UPS system in batteries, most common of which are the lead acid batteries that can last anywhere from 4 to 5 years.
The capacity of these UPS power supplies is determined by the usage requirement that can be evaluated by the number of equipments that will ultimately use its power source. As they support a vast number of equipments, it is essential that a regular scrutiny of the systems be maintained so as to ascertain proper service at all times.
Unlimited power however, cannot be provided to the UPS systems and maybe restricted to a condition of energy for perhaps only a few days or a week. A backup source such as a generator is therefore necessary. The uninterrupted power supply is provided to a vast number of equipments by the two working together; this safeguards them from disruptions like brownouts and spikes.
There are three types of UPS systems available that include on-line, line interactive and standby UPS systems. The least expensive UPS system is the ’standby UPS’, it provides upto 20 minutes protection. However, it only offers the very basic attributes which are surge defence and backup energy. This makes is extremely vulnerable to any sudden unexpected collapses in the system, as it does not have the ability to monitor or self-test the potential of the battery. They cannot hence be considered a reliable option for your equipments.
The line interactive UPS is very similar to the standby UPS. The main difference being it consists of an autotransformer that can add or take away power coils, which in turn is able to control the output of the electrical energy of the transformer. It can keep back high voltage surges and low voltage brownouts. Although similar in technology the on-line UPS is more costly than the other two UPS systems, due to the fact that it has an advanced cooling system and a more powerful charger.
The standby and the line interactive UPS systems are not rated as highly as the on-line UPS system. This is due to the fact that it offers a protective electric firewall between the inward bound energy and the vulnerable equipment. If you are considering buying a UPS system, then this is a more feasible option.
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