You may not have one of these devices for your PC, but you should to avoid a lot of trouble. We are talking about UPS or Uninterruptible Power Systems . These devices allow us to continue using the PC for a limited time when the power goes out, but they can also protect our computer .
UPS, also called UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) are quite common in offices and workplaces. Unfortunately, most users do not have one of these devices that can save them a lot of trouble. We will see the types that are (above) and which one you should have at home.
What types of UPS are there?
When we look for UPS, they all seem more or less the same or similar boxes, changing the power and size, and little else. The really important thing about these systems is inside the case. There are three main types of UPS and each one has different properties and uses. While all three types are intended as backups when the power goes out, they offer additional protections for users.
Before we must say that we are going to identify the two types of circuits that integrate. The main and the load. As main we will understand the circuit that does NOT go through the batteries. While the charging circuit is the circuit used to charge the batteries and the one that will power the system if there is a power outage.
offline
These are the most basic and easiest. Its main circuit is direct, it lacks any filter or voltage stabilization system . When there is a loss of voltage, it will go to the charging circuit, without further ado.
Interactive
Also known as In-Line, it has an intermediate protection in the main circuit. They have a voltage regulator that “cleans” it, so to speak. It ensures that the voltage is as close as possible to 230 V and there is no noise. When we have an electrical drop, the charging circuit will be activated.
On-line
These are a bit complex, but the ones that can offer the best features and capabilities. As main circuit we have a double conversion system , which transforms AC into DC and then transforms it through an inverter, back to AC. The charging circuit is unique to the main circuit.
The battery output has a DC to DC rectifier to adjust the voltage to that of the inverter. Therefore, the charging circuit does not offer the voltage directly when there is an electrical drop, it passes through the last stage of the main circuit .
These systems integrate a special circuit called Bypass . If a problem is detected in the main or charging circuit, this mode will be activated so that we continue to have power.
What is the type of UPS I should buy?
To connect it to our PC, whether it is the one we use to play or to telework, the best are the interactive UPS . These filters that they integrate make the voltage that arrives be of better quality and can extend the life of our power supply. They are more expensive than the Off-Line ones, but they are worth it for the additional security they offer.
The Off-Line are not very interesting, being able to use them for common appliances , such as the television. They are simply for if we have an accidental cut, to be able to turn off the device safely. We do not recommend it for gaming computers or that we use to work.
Finally, the On-Line are reserved exclusively for servers, critical computing facilities and the like . These are usually quite expensive as they use high quality and precision electronic systems. For this reason, they are not interesting for domestic use