Battery back up: Protect your electronics

The storms over the past week have reminded me of the benefits of investing in battery backup systems. Our uninterrupted power supplies (UPS) have provided backup power during both short and medium length power outages.  These units also feature automatic voltage regulation (AVR), which maintains voltage at safe levels allowing us to work during brownouts and overvoltages.  Our UPS units provide peace of mind from threats of power surges which can result in lost data, equipment damage, or even total system failure. During Sunday's (March 13) wind storm as the lights flickered and all power went out, my server continued to hum.  The UPS allowed me time to shut that system down without once having to worry about losing our corporate data, family photos or frying a mother board.  If the television or gaming system had been in use, all of them would have been safe and protected. Not every electronic needs to be plugged into a UPS but for those major investments or systems which contain important data, it is highly recommended.  Take some time and evaluate your home.  Do you have the right devices to protect against a power surge or power outage? If not, there are some easy, cost effective solutions which can provide peace of mind.