Path Technology

An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) may be all that comes between your computer and nasty power problems. It's also nice to be able to save your work when the power fails!

No longer an esoteric computing peripheral, a UPS is an essential part of any computer system. This is true of even for a desktop computer, not just a server. With UPS prices at an all time low, there is really no excuse not to have one.

It is critical that the UPS you select be able to handle the "load" placed on it. This load is basically everything that is plugged into the UPS. It's also a good idea to opt for more wattage capacity than required; this extra capacity will equate to how long the computer and peripherals can last on battery power when a power failure occurs.

Please do not overload the UPS by connecting high wattage devices such as laser printers. Laser printers operate using a heated roller, and can require great power! A modern UPS has surge suppression outlets, in addition to the standard backup outlets, to protect items like laser printers.

Finally, take advantage of any "automatic shutdown" software (and required cable), to allow the computer turn itself off gracefully before the battery dies completely during a power failure. The cable, usually a custom-designed serial cable or a standard USB cable, allows the UPS to talk to your computer with current power status.