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ITFrequently Asked Questions · UPS
What is a UPS?
A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is a device that provides uninterrupted power to your electronic equipment (the load) during voltage fluctuations or a complete power outage. It gives the connected load protection and backup runtime.
A UPS sits between the wall socket and your devices. While mains power is present, it supplies the load and keeps its battery charged; when power fails or the voltage goes out of range, it transfers the load to the battery, within a few milliseconds or with no interruption at all, depending on the type.
There are three main topologies. Offline (standby) UPS units are simple and suitable for a home computer. Line-interactive units add voltage regulation (AVR) and suit offices and network equipment. Online (double-conversion) UPS units continuously generate a new, clean voltage and are used for servers and for medical and industrial systems.
A UPS is not a generator. The runtime of a small UPS is usually a few minutes, enough to ride through a short outage or shut devices down properly. For longer periods you need additional batteries or a generator.
A common mistake is plugging laser printers, heaters or other high-consumption loads into a small UPS. Connect only what genuinely needs continuous power, and replace the battery every 3–5 years, depending on temperature and use.
