UPS Battery Backup

UPS Battery Backup

A UPS battery backup or "uninteruptible power supply" protects delicate electronics by providing surge protection as well as contant power in case of a power failure from the main power source.  When utility power fails, the UPS steps in so quickly that power is not lost to the protected equipment.  Depending on the load and size of the UPS, that power may last a couple minutes up to an hour or more.

Without a UPS, the computer, server or recorder will crash and data can be lost permanently.  If network switches, modems or routers aren't protected, the network and Internet connection will fail even if the computer is backed up.

A UPS is typically installed to protect equipment such as computer workstations, servers, network equipment like routers and switches.  UPS battery backup should also be installed to protect DVR and NVR for surveillance solutions.

When selecting a UPS pay close attention to both the VA (volt amp) rating as well as the Watt rating as these, combined with the load they are protecting, will determine how long the battery back up will last.  It could range from a minute or two, up to an hour for large UPS systems protecting critical devices.