mastarecoil
Before you go and buy a UPS, you need to find out what the power requirements of your system are. I jumped on a deal from BB last weekend. CyberPower 900AVR. (149.99 - 30 MIR) Conditions the power coming to the puter so it has a constant power supply. If you arent sure what the power requirements are, here is a general guide.
_____Watts (W) x 1.8=______VA
--OR--
_____Amps (A) x 120=_____VA
I should also mention that this will calculate the MAXIMUM amount of Volts/Watts and not what is typically used by your computer at any one time. You will use approximately 1/2 of the calculated power requirements.
For example, I have a dual monitor system, and a computer with a 250 watt PS, and powered speakers plugged into the unit. Of course your components will vary. But here is my equation.
17" monitor=2.4 A
15" monitor=1.2 A
Speakers=0.2 A
Computer=6 A
Total=9.8 A x 120 = 1176
1176 / 2 = 588
I have tested this (as the UPS comes with software to monitor itself and to shut the computer down after saving all open programs, after a power outage) and with everything running, i am only putting a 54%load on it. After simulating a power outage (i unplugged it), it ran everything for 35 min 43 seconds before the battery gave out. And during that time i was actively using the computer (checking this board-hehe).
But only plug a minimum of what you need to operate your computer into the battery back up ports. For most people that is a monitor and their computer. Your requirements will vary. The unit i have has 3 battery powered plug-ins and 3 that have surge protect only plus phone line surge protection.
Hope this helps.