Computer Source

Computers and power brownouts simply don’t mix. If you don’t save your work frequently and the system loses power, all your hard work may be lost. On top of that, frequent occurrences can corrupt critical system files, causing boot issues and more data loss. The solution: a battery backup for your system!

A good battery backup serves two purposes:

1. Provides power to the system during a brownout/blackout.

2. Constantly controls the voltage flowing to the system.

Battery backups vary in price and function quite a bit. Some are designed to only allow enough runtime to gracefully save your work and shutdown while others are designed to be a replacement power source when needed. Your individual needs will determine the best solution. In general, the more expensive the device, the longer the runtime. Some battery backups even provide software that can control the system in case of a power outage when no one is present, allowing for a graceful shutdown and avoiding possible data corruption and loss. (This is usually done via a proprietary cable that is attached to the system via serial or USB.)

Voltage control is something the better models provide on top of the basic power protection. A computer is surprisingly picky about the power provided to it. If the voltage fluctuates frequently, it can quickly burn up the electronics in a power supply, causing it to fail, and even harm other parts in a system at the same time. A good battery backup will constantly control the flow of electricity a system gets, ensuring it’s a steady stream of what it needs (120V). The average home electrical system fluctuates constantly between 118-122 volts. Without a battery backup, the power supply must control this changing flow all by itself, causing it to work harder and fail sooner.

Last but not least, every battery backup also acts as a surge suppressor. Like the power strips everyone is used to, a battery backup will stop power surges from reaching the devices is protects, sacrificing itself if needed. Hint: look for a battery backup that also provides phone/modem protection or even ethernet/coax if needed. (This is good for protecting computer modems, DSL modem, and cable modems - power surges can come through ANY line that starts outside your home!)