An Overview on Uninterruptible Power Supply

An uninterruptible power supply or continuous power supply is a device which provides a continuous supply of electric power to all the connected equipment by supplying power from a separate source when utility power is not available. UPS differs from an auxiliary power supply as auxiliary power supply does not provide instant protection from a momentary power interruption.

Basically there are three types of UPS, off-line, line-interactive and on-line. An off-line UPS remains idle until a power failure occurs and as soon as the power failure occurs it instantaneously switches from utility power to its own power source. A line-interactive UPS also rely on main AC power and when power fails, the bi-directional unit switches to inverter mode to provide battery power. An on-line UPS continuously provide powers to the protected load from its energy reserves stored in a lead-acid battery. It also provides protection against all common power problems, and for this reason it is also known as a power conditioner and a line conditioner.

UPS is an inexpensive way to prevent unscheduled downtime or data loss due to power problems. However, a UPS alone is not enough for proper operation but with the combination of hardware, software, and configuration, it make up a UPS system that recover data from unexpected power loss or power fluctuations that can also cause damage to the systems and peripherals.

There are various methods one can employ to protect one PC from power problems but none can insulate the system from power troubles as well as a good UPS. UPS just not only filter, enhance or modify the utility power but with the help of the special circuit and battery it prevents the PC from losing power during power disruption or voltage sag.

UPS is basically used to protect telecommunication equipment, computers, or other electrical equipment where an unexpected power disruption could cause serious business disruption or data loss. UPS units come in various sizes ranging from units which will back up a single computer without monitor that is around 200 VA to units which will provide power to entire buildings that is up to several megawatts. Earlier UPS were expensive and were most likely to be used on expensive computer systems and in areas where the power supply is frequently interrupted. As prices have reduced UPS units have become an essential piece of equipment for data centers and business computers, and are also used for personal computers, entertainment systems and in many more areas.