Computers

Batteries need to be replaced from time to time and devices need to be tested. Here are a few simple tips to keep your uninterruptible power supply uninterrupted.

So you have got your workstations or your network plugged into an uninterruptible power supply. Well, you have made the right decision. No more worry about losing hours of progress thanks to a blown fuse. However, there is a degree of maintenance that goes into keeping uninterruptible power supplies uninterrupted.

For example, say you use RBC batteries in your workstation. That is a great idea, but an even better idea would be to replace that battery before it gets too old.

RBC batteries last a remarkably long time, but they do eventually wear out. Most RBC battery suppliers offer a one year warranty, so its not a bad idea to replace the battery once the warranty runs out. We know, we know, nobody wants an annual expense stacked on top of the bills they are already paying, but if you look at it as an investment, it makes sense. You can either spend a few pounds each year to replace your RBC, or you can risk your battery burning out and leaving your computer unprotected in the event of a power outage.

Another example would be if you maintain any sort of communications network, be it an office network or a wireless internet hotspot. Obviously, you want to keep your network up and running, or else risk losing work progress or customers, so you get an uninterruptible power supply system to keep your network going should there be a power surge or what have you.

Great, but try to make sure you are relying on a reliable product to provide you with that security. Going with a top Brand might cost a pound or two more than some no-name brand backup power supply product, but you wont get the same kind of reliability, you are not likely to get any sort of warranty, and if the thing breaks down the first time you need it, you are likely to eat the costs yourself.

An on-line UPS is perfect for situations where there are extreme voltage fluctuations and the equipment connected to it is highly sensitive. They are more expensive than the line-interactive and the stand by UPS and were earlier available only for larger consumption installations. However, they are now available in smaller consumer equipment that use about 500watts of power. They are convenient for locations where there are large numbers of noise-making equipments such as those seen in large industries. Apart from this they may require a back up generator to supply an uninterrupted power supply to these equipments.

Really it comes down to the same kind of common sense you would practice in maintaining any electronic device. When your UPS is all hooked up, set up an old laptop or something and run a test now and then to make sure it will be able to provide standby power when the lights go out. Replace it when it starts getting old. Simply put, you want to make sure its going to work when you need it to work.

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