Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:
- Uninterruptible Power Supplies
Step1
If you have a limited budget, choose a standby (also called "off-line") UPS that switches to battery power when power goes out.
Step2
Choose an "on-line" UPS if you need unlimited backup power.
Step3
Select a "line-interactive" UPS if your needs fall between the two other types.
Step4
Determine the total power needs (in watts and volt-amperes) of equipment you will connect to the UPS.
Step5
Choose a UPS that equals or exceeds the total power requirements of the equipment that you'll connect to it.
Step6
Compare the following five specifications for different models: maximum surge current (expressed in amps - more is better), surge suppression (expressed in joules - more is better), suppression response time (faster is better), battery recharge time (faster is better), and number of AC outlets (more is better).
Step7
Find out if the unit under consideration has a replaceable battery, and if the battery is user-replaceable.
Step8
Compare battery operating times (how long the UPS will keep equipment running after power failure).
Step9
Look for a unit with modem surge protection and electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio-frequency interference (RFI) noise reduction if you need those features.
Step10
Check for alarms or LEDs that indicate wiring problems, whether the equipment is running on UPS battery, and whether the battery is low.
Step11
If you are buying a more expensive unit, get one with software that automatically saves documents, closes applications, and turns off equipment when power goes out.
Step12
Compare warranties and insurance guarantees.