How to Pick the Right UPS for your Desktop Computer

Laptops have become extremely popular in recent years. They provide you with enhanced productivity and benefits and are extremely convenient for working on the go. However, as popular as laptops are, several institutions, offices, and households still prefer desktop computers. These computers are not just more budget-friendly, they come with additional features and offer a better value for their price. Moreover, desktop computers grant their users the ability to customize and upgrade the setup at will. 

Unlike laptops, desktop computers must be provided with a continuous source of energy as they do not often have a designated battery backup. Most users of desktop computers prefer installing a UPS that keeps the computer running on emergency power in case there is a power disruption. Therefore, if you have a desktop computer at your home, you must pick the right UPS to prevent your computer from shutting down abruptly during sudden power blackouts. 

What is a UPS?

UPS refers to an uninterruptible power supply or an uninterruptible power source that has been specifically designed to act as a temporary source of power. It provides emergency power to a device when there is a disruption in the main power line. 

The UPS is, however, different from an auxiliary power source or an emergency power system. A UPS provides a near-instantaneous supply of power to the electrical device during sudden power interruptions. But the power is contained in batteries or supercapacitors, which can provide this emergency power only for a short while. 

A UPS is usually used across protected hardware including telecommunication equipment, data centers, and desktop computers. 

The best UPS for a computer is designed mostly to provide sufficient power to keep a device from standby or from shutting down a piece of protected equipment. The UPS does not provide power for a long time like an inverter. Instead, it grants you some extra time to save changes and important documents on your desktop computer and shut it down normally, instead of the desktop computer shutting down abruptly during a disconnection in the input power. 

How Big Does My UPS Need to Be?

A UPS is a vital device that safeguards electronic equipment from power disruptions in residential and commercial capacities. It acts as a power backup during outages, preventing data loss or damage to sensitive devices. By supplying temporary power, a UPS allows users to save their work and shut down equipment properly. It also protects against voltage fluctuations and spikes. UPS units come in various sizes, providing different levels of power backup based on specific needs. Commonly used in offices and data centers, a UPS ensures a reliable and uninterrupted power supply for critical devices.

Determining the size of your Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) depends on the power requirements of your connected devices. Calculate the total wattage of all equipment you intend to connect, considering both active and standby devices. Select a UPS with a capacity slightly higher than this calculated wattage to accommodate potential power spikes or future expansions. UPS capacities are typically measured in Volt-Amps (VA) or kiloVolt-Amps (kVA). A 1000 VA UPS, for example, can handle 1000 watts. When selecting the appropriate UPS size for your setup, you must consider future needs and potential growth.

What's the difference between sine-wave and simulated sine-wave UPS?

There are many types of UPS available keeping in mind the various requirements in terms of devices and equipment. A sine-wave UPS produces an output waveform that closely mimics a pure sine wave, resembling the electricity supplied by utility grids. It ensures compatibility with sensitive electronic devices and reduces the risk of malfunctions or damage. On the other hand, a simulated sine-wave UPS generates a stepped approximation of a sine wave, which may not be as smooth as a pure sine wave. While simulated sine-wave UPS units are more cost-effective, they may not be suitable for certain sensitive equipment. Choosing between them depends on the specific requirements and the types of devices connected to the UPS.

Consider UPS Volt-Amps Rating

The UPS Volt-Amps (VA) rating represents the total power capacity a UPS can provide to connected devices. It comprises both real power (measured in watts) and reactive power. Real power is the actual energy used by the devices, while reactive power is necessary for the functioning of certain equipment. The VA rating indicates the maximum load a UPS can support, ensuring devices receive sufficient power during outages. It is crucial to size a UPS appropriately, considering the combined power needs of connected equipment. Undersizing may lead to overloading, while oversizing can result in inefficient operation and increased costs.

Compare Warranty Coverage

Warranty coverage for Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) can vary between manufacturers and models. Typically, warranties include a specified duration and terms of service. In general, warranties for UPS systems commonly range from 1 to 5 years. During this period, manufacturers typically cover repair or replacement costs for defects in materials or workmanship. Some warranties may offer additional services, such as technical support or on-site repairs. UPS warranties usually cover batteries for a shorter duration compared to the overall system.

Comparing warranties involves evaluating the duration, coverage specifics, and additional services offered. Choosing a UPS with a comprehensive and reliable warranty ensures that users receive adequate support and protection for their critical power infrastructure.

How to pick the right UPS for your Desktop Computer 

As important a role is played by the UPS, it is essential to pick the right UPS for your desktop computer. While choosing a UPS for your desktop computer, you must look into the following:

• Terminal Protectors - Terminal protectors ensure absolute safety from electrical shocks and accidents.
• Vent plugs - A UPS must have fully functioning vent plugs, designed to regulate gas pressure within the battery.
• Warranty - A longer warranty is one of the most important factors when it comes to UPS. A higher warranty, ranging between 12 to 48 months, is indicative of the superior quality and longer life.

APC Home UPS 

Many regions in India suffer from inconsistent power connections. The APC Home UPS from Schneider Electric has been specifically designed to combat the harsh power conditions, and provide the user with emergency power in times of need. The APC Home UPS has been specifically designed for household use and comes with shock and short circuit protection, making it safe for children and pets too. This sine wave UPS is compatible with flat plate and tubular batteries of 80ah to 180ah.

The APC Home UPS has been designed using robust tubular plates, that are durable and long-lasting. The low antimony alloy frame contributes to the low-cost maintenance and affordable rate of the APC Home UPS. In addition, it has superb overcharge tolerance without breaking down, and allows very deep discharge, making it suitable for areas that suffer from long power cuts frequently. The APC Home UPS, available from Schneider Electric, comes with a warranty of 18 months and is among the best UPS for pc. 

Conclusion

Schneider Electric is one of the biggest manufacturers and distributors of electrical components and devices across the globe. It is a one-stop online destination for all your electrical requirements and solutions. Other than UPS for desktop computers, you can look into offers on MCCBs, RCBs, and a wide range of electrical components at affordable rates from the Schneider Electric eShop.

Read More: How to Extend the Battery Life Of Your UPS?