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How to choose a UPS to keep your computer (and files) safe
Today’s topic isn’t the most exciting — you might call it downright boring. If you don’t care about damaging your computer and losing your work because of a power outage, keep scrolling for the tech news you need to know. You won’t hurt my feelings.
Oh, good, you’re still here! 👍
So, an uninterruptible power source (UPS) is one of those tech necessities you need, and I don’t want you to get the wrong one. Here’s the scoop on what to look for and how to choose the perfect one for your needs.
How does a UPS work?
If you’ve ever had your computer shut down mid-project or you’ve lost data because of a sudden power outage, you know just how annoying and dangerous that can be. A UPS is a backup battery, giving you precious time to save your work, shut down properly and protect your tech from harmful surges.
It’s plugged into the wall, quietly charging its internal battery while you go about your day. When the main power fails, the UPS takes over instantly. It also shields your computer from voltage spikes that could fry the hardware.
Features to consider
A few key things matter. Don’t worry, I’ll keep the jargon minimal.
- Power capacity: Measured in volt-amperes (VA) and watts, this tells you how much equipment a UPS can support. Your UPS needs a higher wattage rating than the total wattage of the devices you’re plugging in.
- Runtime: The higher the capacity, the longer the runtime. Most UPS devices give you 5 to 30 minutes. All you truly need is enough to shut down properly.
- Surge protection: The higher the joule rating, the better the protection. This is super important!
- Number of outlets: Some UPS devices are battery-backed; others provide only surge protection. Make sure your UPS has enough battery-backed outlets for your critical devices. Surge-only outlets are perfect for printers and other peripherals you don’t need to keep running.
- Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): This keeps your voltage levels consistent, protecting your devices from high and low voltages without switching to battery power.
Choosing the right UPS
The most important step is calculating the total wattage of the devices you want to protect. Then, add a 10% to 20% buffer for future upgrades. If you’re a tech geek, you can find that in your device specs.
Don’t worry, I did the hard work for you. Below are my UPS recommendations, depending on your gear. These are all fair prices when it comes to protecting your expensive devices.
- Basic: 425VA/225W (22% off, $59); a great option for plugging in your modem and router so you keep the internet going for a few more minutes in an outage.
- For a computer: 600VA/300W ($80); get about 15 minutes of extra life for your desktop computer.
- Home theater protection: 900VA/480W (13% off, $126); you don’t have to worry about surges if you hook up everything to this. It filters the power for better-quality audio, too. No more humming!
- Top of the line: 1500VA/1000W (8% off, $220); ideal for two computers or a computer and other equipment.
Pro tip: Never hook up a laser printer or shredder to a UPS. They can draw way too much power and overload it.
💤 Phew, I hope I didn’t put you to sleep. A good UPS is like insurance. You might not think about it until you need it, but when you do, you’ll be glad it’s there.
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Tags: computers, devices, power outages, protection, UPS
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