Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is an electronic device that offers battery backup service to computers or other devices during power interruptions. They therefore allow your devices to shut down safely in case of power outages. Another function of UPS is to protect your device from over-voltages and brow-outs. Choosing UPS system that suits your need can improve performance of your devices.

Ensure that you choose a UPS that has enough power supply. Peripherals attached to your computer should not demand more power than your UPS battery capacity. A good battery backup system should detect the power output and make an alert if over-voltages or power insufficiency is noted. Some devices may also require more power on start up or during heavy usage; and furthermore, you might need to invest more to get better UPS system.

The UPS run time is another feature that determines the suitability of a backup device. This is an estimation of how long a power backup device can supply power. Some low cost UPS systems may offer lesser duration of use depending on what devices are used with them. Always choose a UPS system that has a longer run time and the one that make an alert in case power goes out to prevent possible damage to the computer.Different UPS have different methods of detecting when battery backup support should be started. This is based on the point that the UPS systems are categorized based on their power tolerance levels. The most basic backup system is the standby mode type that only switches to battery after the power supply voltage drops below a certain level. This backup system is the most commonly used and is considered relatively cheaper.

Another type of UPS system is on-line interactive type that features an inbuilt transformer. The system will detect changes in power supply to ensure that your computer hardly goes to battery power unless the current supply is too low. It is not advisable to use such a UPS system during a frequently power interrupted period to avoid consecutive switching to battery power, since such a process may impact negatively on the battery capacity or lifespan.

The other kind of UPS system is the dual compression type that is the most advanced battery protection and backup mode. Power is broken down to DC and perfectly reconstructed to AC by the inverter with no transfer switching time. The process will eliminate any incoming line noise or surge, as it adjusts high or low voltages and producing perfect AC power. This will ensure that your battery power remains intact unless when there are power outages.

The best UPS system is the dual compression model that features an advanced system. Power quality is determined and reconstructed to suit your devices power requirements. An inbuilt inverter will convert AC power to DC power and later to AC after all power shortcomings have been addressed. This model will hardly damage your battery or affect the life span.

It is also of importance to consider how your backup system output power. This has to do with the actual sine wave power from an AC current. Some backup systems may not output the correct sine wave power but instead convert the power to square wave. This may not support power consuming devices like wireless routers and they may go off or get damaged in the process. To ensure you get the best value for money, consider trying the dual conversion UPS systems.

Lastly, find out the specifications of the power backup system in terms of number and nature of power outlet ports. You will need a backup system that can protect your battery and computer from power outages and blowouts results. Some cheaper systems have outlets that offer protection for only electrical noise and surges. Also consider whether the system has other ports that are fully protected from electrical risks. Such ports may include the Ethernet, phone jack and other cable outlets.