UPS

Updated: 09/10/2024 by Computer Hope

UPS may refer to any of the following:

APC Battery Backup

1. Short for Uninterruptible Power Supply, UPS is a hardware device that provides a backup power source in case of a power outage (blackout), brownout, or surge in power. A UPS provides enough power to prevent unsaved work from being lost with a power failure by allowing the user to save work and shut down. If the outage is short, the computer remains running during the outage. The picture shows an APC battery backup power strip.

Note

Because laser printers draw a lot of power, it's not recommended they be connected to a UPS. Instead, connect it only to a surge protector.

What should connect to a UPS battery backup?

If you're using a desktop computer, we recommend it be the only device connected to the UPS battery backup. Other devices, like an external drive, may be needed to store information during a power outage and therefore should also be connected. If you don't experience many outages, we don't recommend connecting a monitor to a UPS because of its power consumption, and most brownouts and power outages are short. However, if your area experiences frequent or extended power outages, having the monitor connected may be necessary to help properly shut down the computer during an outage.

Tip

If you are using a laptop with a working battery, it can serve as a UPS (not a surge protector). If the laptop's power were to be lost to the laptop, it would immediately switch to the battery for power.

What should not be connected to a UPS?

Only critical devices should be connected to a UPS; the following non-crtical devices should be connected only to a surge protection port or protector.

How would having a UPS help a computer?

Connecting your computer to a UPS protects it from electrical surges and outages. When computers shut down improperly, such as during a power outage, it can damage the computer's internal parts and cause lost data. Having a UPS helps prevent the computer from being improperly shut down and helps protect the computer and its data.

What are the types of UPS?

There are three versions of the UPS: standby UPS, online UPS, and line-interactive UPS. With a standby UPS (offline UPS), the UPS switches to battery power when the power problem occurs. With an online UPS, the UPS always provides power from the battery, and while they offer better protection, they are more expensive. For most home users and small businesses, a standby UPS will meet all their needs.

Does a UPS have surge protection?

Yes, a UPS also includes surge protection. Often, a UPS has some plugs dedicated to battery and surge protection, and others with only surge protection. Depending on the type of protection a device needs would determine which plug to use. When connecting a device to a UPS, connect it directly to one of the UPS plugs. A device should not be connected to a surge protector connected to the UPS because it might prevent the UPS's surge protection from being triggered. If more power connections are needed, use another surge protector connected directly to the wall.

2. Short for United Parcel Service, UPS is a package and mail delivery service used worldwide.

AVR, Battery, Battery backup, Clamping speed, Clamping voltage, Computer acronyms, Hardware terms, Power cable, Power strip, Power terms, Redundant power supply, Surge protector, TLA