Do I Need a Backup Battery (aka UPS) for My Computer?

Do you use a PC that needs to be plugged into a power source? An uninterruptible power supply may not be something you planned on procuring, but computer battery backup could save you in more ways than one during a power outage.

Today we're talking UPS -no, not the international courier service, UPS refers to uninterrupted power supply for computers. At this moment, you may be enjoying an uninterrupted power supply, and wondering if I need a battery backup for my computer? If you're curious, read on to discover all you need to know about battery backup for computers. We'll cover the fundamentals of computer batteries, and help you to figure out if you need one. Once we've covered the basics, we'll delve into power needs, battery capacity, and runtime, as well as introducing two reliable UPSs.

What is an uninterruptible power supply, UPS?

An (uninterruptible power supply) is a handy piece of kit that provides emergency electrical power for your computer and other electronic devices in the event of a power cut or fluctuation. A UPS is essentially a backup battery for your computer, ever-ready to ensure continuous power (for the duration of the battery's life).

Starting up automatically upon detecting power loss, a UPS delivers stable voltage levels to your devices, while protecting against surges that could damage your computer, or other electronic equipment. After near-instantaneously kicking-in, the UPS delivers power while you either safely shut-down your equipment, or connect to a standby power source.

Why would I need a UPS?

While UPSs may lack the glitz and glamor of other devices, the importance of battery backup for your computer should not be underestimated. Depending on where in the world you're reading this, power outages and problems may be a common occurrence, or they may only strike once in a blue moon. Think of the problems that a power interruption could cause if your computer suddenly shut down without warning. Now we'll cover a few user groups who require a UPS backup battery.

Data: For those of us working with data in any shape, form or volume, a UPS is essential. From individuals working at home to larger data centres, hooking up a UPS ensures that in the event of a power outage, your data is protected, and you can continue operating safely.
Business: Reliability is at the core of your business identity, and a power outage is no excuse for sagging performance! Whatever business you're in, a UPS can help ensure continuous smooth runnings during power cuts. Power surges often follow power cuts, putting sensitive electronic equipment at risk of serious damage. Installing a UPS, or multiple units, depending on your business size protects against surge damage as well as letting you get on with business as normal.
Medical: It goes without saying that hospitals and other medical facilities require a steady, uninterrupted power source 24/7. Ensuring that medical equipment, from life support machines, to medical cameras have an uninterrupted power supply can, at times, mean the difference between life or death.
Gamers: Last but not least, let's not forget gamers and their need for continuous gameplay! When gaming victory is on the line, the last thing you need is to lose power and potentially damage your trusty gaming steed. If you're serious about gaming, get yourself a UPS before the power cuts out and it's too late!

How to choose the right backup battery?

If you reckon a UPS might benefit you and your computer, then there are a few considerations to make before running out and buying the first UPS you find. Most UPS units have a power factor rating of 0.6-0.8. Choose the correct unit for your needs by following the process below:

1. Power needs

First, make a list of all of the devices that you'll connect to the UPS, including routers, monitors and external drives. Next, check the wattage (power consumption of each device) This is usually written somewhere on the device, or is easily searchable. Your desktop may be 500W for example. Now for a bit of math. Add up the wattage of your assembled devices. Once you've got the total wattage, it's time to calculate the power factor to select a UPS that meets your needs and supplies sufficient VA (volt-amperes).

Say the total wattage of your devices is 600 watts, to check if a UPS with a power factor of 0.8 will deliver sufficient power, simply divide the total wattage by the power factor. So 600/0.8 = 750. This 750 is your Total VA requirement, so you'd need a UPS with minimum capacity of 750 VA to support the 600W load. Ensure that you have a few VAs to spare when selecting a UPS. As well as being future-ready for any added devices, 20% extra capacity in your UPS will also protect you against dreaded power surges.

2. Battery runtime

Once you've calculated your power requirements, the next step is to determine your required runtime. Consider what you do on your PC, and how long it would take you to safely save your work before shutting your devices down, or connecting to another power source.

If, after reading the above, you've decided that a UPS is something that you need in your life, hold your horses before rushing out to find one. Before we say farewell, let's take a look at two popular UPS solutions worth checking out:

CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD PFC Sinewave UPS System, 1500VA

This mini-tower UPS delivers battery backup and surge protection for all of your home computing devices. Featuring an advanced multifunction LCD control panel to quickly confirm status, the CP1500PFCLCD also features two USB charge ports to charge phones and tablets during a power outage. Particularly useful in locales regularly affected by power fluctuations, the CP1500PFCLCD uses automatic volt regulation (AVR) to correct minor power fluctuations without jumping to battery power, extending battery life. This device has a three-year warranty and a $500,000 connected equipment guarantee.

APC UPS 1500VA Sine Wave UPS Battery Backup

With 10 outlets and 2 USB charging ports, this easy to manage 1500VA / 900W battery backup power supply powers and protects your most important devices. This APC UPS features surge protection and Powerchute UPS management via a dedicated battery port. The Sine wave battery power output during power outages ensures that you stay connected, no matter what's happening outside! The APC 1500VA Sine Wave UPS is also active PFC compatible and has a user-replaceable battery, for years of guaranteed power.

The takeaway

We trust that you've enjoyed our outing into the ever-reliable world of UPS batteries. UPS users are a diverse bunch: whether you're an SMB owner who wants to ensure the smooth running of your business, or a serious gamer who simply cannot accept interruptions, a UPS delivers reliable power in the event of an outage. If you decide to get a UPS, make sure to follow the calculations above, and please note that we take no responsibility for damages caused by your battery misadventures if you do lose power! Do your research and none of that will happen: for most home users, the two models above are a good place to start!