Computers and computer networks pose a unique set of challenges when it comes to power management. In the event of an electrical outage, progress can be lost in an instant if not saved properly. Although many computer programs and functions have progress-saving features, it's best not to tempt fate. Remember: save early, save often, and keep a few power backup and safety techniques in your plans to make sure your progress is saved in an emergency.
Buying Time With Uninterruptible Power Supplies
If you're running a business or project that absolutely requires data integrity, you need a set of Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) to give your computer users a little more time to save everything and shutdown safely.
A UPS is a sophisticated system consisting of high-capacity battery cells and a power management block. Depending on your investment, you can find UPS models that offer different amounts of time—ideally at least 5 minutes, but possibly hours—to keep your computers powered.
In a typical setup, the computer connects to one of the UPS ports. The UPS is then plugged into the wall or other reliable power source. Multiple devices can be connected to the UPS, but keep in mind that multiple devices means more power being taken from the battery at once.
The more advanced UPS models include a changing meter system that shows the battery charge level and the amount of time left on the UPS. Make sure to test the capacity of the UPS, as like any batteries the UPS battery can eventually lose its maximum capacity and charge over time.
Generators For Mission-Critical Tasks
A UPS is nice, but you may need to power an entire department or business with more than just desktop computers and laptops. If you have computer servers, high-powered machinery and a list of other business-critical electronic and electrical devices, you may need a backup generator.
The purpose of a generator is more than just storing information; a generator creates an electrical charge to be delivered anywhere necessary. You can use the generator-built power to fill battery cells, the direct business power grid or a combination of both.
Many different generator styles exist, ranging from solar arrays to fossil fuel-powered generators. For the fuel generators, you'll need to make sure to have either a fuel such as diesel on hand or a fuel delivery truck ready to service you. If you store your fuel, the fuel needs to be checked periodically depending on the blend; like anything else organic or organic-based, fuel can expire and lose its potency.
Contact a generator service professional (such as one from South Shore Generator Service Inc) for tips on installation, power conservation and generator types.
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