Q: I see battery backup systems at several office supply stores. Can you provide an explanation as to how they work and why would I want one?

 

A: Battery Backup systems or UPS (short for Uninterruptible Power Supply) are a great addition to your personal computer because they will keep power going to your computer in case of:

-A sudden black-out (I guess they are never announced in advance)

-Someone accidentally yanks your computer cord out of the wall or turns off your outlet

-A tripped-off circuit in your building

 

The Battery Backup immediately kicks-in providing you enough time to power-down your computer without loosing any of your work. Even if you are not at your computer, the Battery Backup will power-down your system automatically - again saving your unsaved work.

 

The reason I want to talk about Battery Backup is that I have found that several of my clients with Battery Backup systems had them connected incorrectly.

 

When you connect your Battery Backup be sure:

1) You connect your Battery Backup unit power cord directly into a wall outlet - Do not plug it into another surge protector

2) If your Battery Backup is has a USB connection, be sure it is plugged directly into your computer - not into a USB hub.

3) Verify the software that runs your Battery Backup is installed on the computer it is protecting - Why go through all the setup without ensuring your computer will shut-off in a controlled manner during a power outage?

4) Be sure your computer & monitor are plugged into the outlets labeled 'Battery', 'Battery Backup', or 'UPS' on the Battery Backup unit.

 

Following these guidelines will your computer if the lights go out!