Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) (421 products)

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Why do I need a UPS?

There are several reasons why you'd not only want but need back-up power - notably a break in the electricity supply or hardware failure. Either event can be catastrophic when you're using your PC or running an always-on server. However, a UPS can kick in immediately and prevent any damaging affects to hardware or loss of data.

How does a UPS work?

The uninterruptible power supply draws power from the mains supply which effectively charges its back-up battery. In day-to-day operation, an UPS simply acts as an extension cable, passing power to plugged in devices. But when a power outage unexpectedly knocks the mains power out of operation, the UPS instantly switches to its battery to keep any connected devices powered.

On battery, the UPS can only distribute power for a limited time, but provides a live-saving back-up until either the original power is reinstated or a new sourced is plugged in.

Why do I need a UPS?

In a similar vein to backing up your data, you don't appreciate the benefits of a UPS until you desperately need it. A UPS buys you a short - but vital - amount of time to save important documents, pause in-progress tasks and go through the proper shut-down procedure.

Who are UPS for?

Conventionally, uninterruptible power supplies are intently targeted at businesses to minimise disturbances for reliable operation. Even the slightest, sub-minute interruption can wreak havoc. The resulting fallout can have long-lasting or even potentially irreversible implications on businesses. A UPS is practically essential in data centres, hospitals and other locations where even a momentary lapse of power to a computer or server can cause plenty of damage.

However, the home deployment of a UPS for a non-work PC is also an alluring option. The price tag of an all-out gaming PC can quickly add-up, with hundred's worth of the latest generation CPUs, GPUs and other components. One ill-fated surge or loss in power could have disastrous affects on your hardware if not adequately protected by a UPS. PCs are inherently always-on machines, you don't want your power dropping out during a critical BIOS or firmware upgrade.

As a business-centric piece of kit, a UPS may not be the most captivating or exciting purchase. A UPS won't improve your frame rates, but it'll help keep the hardware you're deeply invested in safe.

What should I look for in a UPS?

Ebuyer stocks a vast array of uninterruptible power supplies catering to any demand. Here's a few key considerations when picking out a UPS.

Output power capacity

When the mains power shuts off, a UPS battery can only last so long. The main distinction between UPS models is their output power capacity. This figure, measured in watts and volt-amps, dictates the total power a UPS can output when battery powered. You'll need to ensure your set-up doesn't draw more power than the UPS can handle, otherwise it won't work.

Like PC PSUs, similar advice applies to a UPS: the total draw of your set-up shouldn't exceed more than 80% of the UPS output power capacity, to safely account for the constantly fluctuating power delivery of components.

The output power capacity in turn affects the length of time the battery lasts. If you're UPS is mainly for weathering brief blimps in power outage, a UPS with a smaller capacity may be all you need. But if you're routinely subject to sustained outages, a UPS with a larger capacity helps.

Power outlets

The number of power outlets you'll need on a UPS is heavily dependent on your set-up and use case. There are uninterruptible power supplies with ample stacks of outlets for powering expansive arrangements of PCs, peripherals and accessories. There's also smaller units to perform one critical role.

On some UPS models, not all the outlets are necessarily protected by battery back-up. Some are no-frills, surged protected outlets. This allows the user to configure to plug in non-essential devices, like a secondary monitor, without it draining the battery.

Ports

A device connected to a USB port on a UPS can receive signals in the event of a power loss to start procedures configured by the user, such as powering down in an organised, timely fashion. The USB connection can also send useful information pertaining to the status and condition of the UPS. Battery drain rate, time until loss of charge and more - these parameters can be used by software to gain a greater understanding of how to effectively manage the device while on battery power.

As a bog-standard USB port, it can power USB devices like a smartphone in case of emergency. Some uninterruptible power supplies feature ethernet ports to protect power-over-ethernet devices and keep them switched on, like networking devices.

Form factor

Uninterruptible power supplies come in two distinct form factors: tower UPS and rack-mounted UPS. UPS. The design of a tower UPS closely resembles a desktop PC, a free-standing unit that's situated underneath your desk. They're primarily used in conjunction with desktop PC set-ups.

A tower UPS tends to be more user-friendly, with user friendly and accessible LCD displays and on-device buttons to see and control the status of the UPS. Whereas a rack-mounted UPS is installed in a server cabinet and as such supplies back-up power for servers.

UPS at Ebuyer

If you are looking for a new uninterruptible power supply, Ebuyer stocks both rack-mounted UPS and free-standing tower UPS. You will also find all the extras and add-ons you need to extract the maximum functionality, utility and potential from your UPS, including easily replaceable, hot-swappable batteries and power distributor units.

And don't forget to check out our broad range of UPS accessories including supplementary surge protectors, cable organises and extended run enclosures. You'll find great deals on all our UPS products and UPS accessories, available with next-day delivery if you order today before 11PM, terms and conditions apply.

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