First of all, before we look at whether you need a UPS system in your home, let us just work out what it is. UPS stands for uninterruptible power supply, and it includes a battery in order to maintain power in the event of a power outage. Typically, a UPS system will keep a computer running for quite a few minutes after a power outage so that you can save any data before shutting the computer down as it should be, rather than it just blacking out and you losing all of your hard work. You can also get a UPS system that carries a software component that will automatically backup your files, and shut down in case there is a power failure while you are away from your desk and so unable to save your data manually. Basically, there are two types of UPS systems.

: the SPS (standby power system) and an online UPS system. The online version is superior to the SPS because the latter, although it constantly monitors the power supply and switches to battery power if it detects a problem, can sometimes be not quite quick enough. It takes milliseconds for the switch to battery power, during which the computer is not receiving any power. An online UPS system.however, avoids these transitory lapses because it is constantly providing power from its own inverter, even when there is not a problem with the power. Naturally, with a better ability comes a higher price so this must be taken into consideration when choosing a UPS system that is right for you. Unless you have a huge network installation, the SPS will be perfectly adequate. This UPS system works by redirecting power from an AC outlet through the UPS. It includes a surge suppressor to protect your computer.

and a filter to eliminate spikes and line noise. From here, the power moves to an internal switch in the UPS. If the electricity fails, the switch transfers the power supply through a battery charger, onto a battery and then onto an inverter, which keeps your computer running, rather than leaping into darkness, losing your data and leaving you hysterical. The benefits of a UPS system are obvious, and it has the added bonus of being quite small, and has a relatively low cost. It sounds great, but is a UPS system really necessary in your home? Well, to answer that question, it is essential to have a look at national statistics for power outages. Individual locations vary, of course, but industry sources say that that there are approximately 15 power outages a year in North America that are enough to cause problems for office computers. Most last for less than five minutes, but over a year that adds up, and if you run your business from home and depend upon your PC for your livelihood, then maybe a UPS system will be a welcome addition to your home to prevent that worst case scenario from ever occurring.