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If the letters UPS bring to mind only brown delivery trucks, do continue reading. If you already know what they mean in terms of computing, do read on as well because I think I have found a solid solution for those looking for a new one, or a better one.
For those new to computing, UPS stands for uninterrupted power supply. These are words to keep in mind, and more importantly point to one of the most neglected parts of computing. While computer users, even experienced ones, may be quick to purchase new PCs, scanners and the like. UPS systems always seem to be the most neglected part of computing. So let me explain just briefly their importance and why every PC user, particularly home users, need one.
A UPS is more than a surge protector. While surge protectors are important, they are not the same thing as an uninterrupted power supply. They do nothing should the power go off where you are computing. What a UPS does is store power so that should your power go off, you will have sufficient time to turn your PC and monitor off without harming your PC or losing important information. If you think that this will never happen, or live in a place where power outages are rare, do think again. For the longest time I lived without one, and I saw the day come when I regretted not having a well made UPS around.
When power suddenly goes out, your PC can face problems with ruined files, lost work and sometimes system instability. Just like turning off a PC without properly powering down is always a bad idea and should be used as a last resort, power outages do just as much harm to delicate systems. As anyone who has used a PC can tell you, should you be working on an important document and the power goes dark, you will lose what you have not saved. Sadly, power loss and outages do not respect hard work.
Should you live in a place where outages are a rarity, power loss can happen. I thought it would never happen to me, until one day the power went out not once, but five times, literally destroying several hours of hard work. It was at that point that I realized everyone, and I do mean everyone, should have a UPS no matter what.
Like I cited earlier people may spend thousands on a PC and balk at spending a few dollars on a good UPS. Since it happened rarely to me, I assumed I was safe until I lost several hours of hard work. So do not let that happen to you. If you buy either a PC or a Mac, do consider a UPS.
Now if you're like me, the whole idea of a UPS, and figuring out which one to purchase was like a walk through a techno jungle. Fortunately for those of you reading, I did a little homework, leg work and have found what I think maybe a really solid solution for your UPS needs.
Certainly you can look for bargain basement units, but if you are using broadband and phone lines, you will want a unit that is solid with a good reputation to back it up after the point of sale that offers solid support. From my searches, I found APC. American Power Conversion. APC has been a major international leader in providing solutions for power issues like power outages for both end users and corporate users as well. From my contacts with APC, I can honestly say I was, and still am, impressed. They do mean to be available and clearly want to reach the consumer.
While they offer several units, one that I feel may have wide appeal for most end users is the APC UPS ES 725 Broadband. Sporting 8 outlets, four for complete battery back up, and four for just surge protection, this unit offers a great deal in a relatively small package. With RJ-45 Modem, Fax, DSL/ 10-100 Base T protection and even Co-axial Video/Cable protection with DB-9 RS-232 and USB ports, this unit packs considerably more than some others I have seen within these price points.
Unlike some systems I have seen, the 725 va offers software that allows you to shut down from your PC via a USB link. Several bargan units I have seen perform this function via the serial link which can be limiting for some users who have other uses for their serial ports. The added value of cable and ethernet protection no doubt will have appeal for broadband users. Another added selling point is that should the batteries go bad, or wear out, you can replace them without having to send the 16 lb unit back to the factory. This is no small point, and one worth considering when purchasing a UPS.
If automated shut downs and software concerns you, the 725 does have you covered. APC offers a solid assortment of manuals and software for back up purposes. So if you use a Mac or a Windows machine, APS has software available for download, gratis. With some value systems finding software and updates is problematic at best. When working with a large corporation like APC, one does not have to fear not having software should you need it as well as solid documentation. Accessing customer support, particularly with devices like a UPS is an important concern. APC does maintain a clean easy to navigate site that will make finding answers that much easier.
For those wanting a little more detailed information, below you will find some highlights.
These are just a few highlights to the system to provide some outlines on the capacity of the unit. Runtimes while on battery supply may vary depending on PC, or Mac, size of unit and other factors. You computer back up time maybe longer than what is suggested here.
Certainly the plethora of information, figures and facts can be confusing, what is not is the importance of a battery powered back up should the lights go out. With computers costing thousands of dollars, spending around a hundred (in the case of the APC 725 va the units are in the $90 to $100.00 range) it makes solid sense to factor in the cost of a UPS for each PC or Mac you operate.
Even if your needs are just basic, UPS protection is just as important for the newbie as it is to the pro. Considering how sudden shut downs can damage delicate computer files and hardware, this one device not only can save hours of hard work, it just may save your PC investment. No matter what your PC needs are, a UPS should be a part of your computing budget.
Certainly there are many companies with UPS units on the market, but APC from my judgement offers the most solid protection with great support and ease of use. You can compute knowing that you will not be harmed by an unexpected power loss.
PC or Mac, any size or type of system. The enclosed software, Power Chute Personal Edition runs on Windows 98, Me, 2000, XP and OS 9.0.4/9.1 and OS 10.1
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