What Backup UPS system to use???

[spike99]

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Looking for a Backup UPS for my home computer system. Nothing too expensive or too "wild". But, something that is reliable and easy to use. But most of all, financially affordable. For the folks who know me, I hate computer "complex" things. Even if the backup UPS unit comes with fancy auto shut-down cabling and software, I probably won't use it. Especially if we upgrade to an iMAC "mid range" computer system next year.

Currently using Sympatico HS Internet modem, medium size Printer, medium size Intel PC tower and using 20" LCD display. Typical PC home system. Was thinking of Backup UPS 350, 500, 650 or ???? VA. The APC Backup UPS 350VA looks most afordable to me. Something that will work on a 110/120V - 15 Amp circuit with standard "push in" electrical plug.

For my current and future computer power needs, what Backup with Surge Protection UPS unit (make / model) do you recommend? If using a Backup UPS system of your own, how do you like it? Would you buy it again?

thanks.

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[chrisw]

Hi Spike,
For your system a 350VA should be fine, but do not plug the printer into the UPS side of the unit (one side is UPS and the other is just surge protected. However if you leave your system turned on the DO use the auto-shut-down system or you might as well not have the back-up system at all!! It is not hard to hook up.
The batteries in the UPS unit do not last forever, I have had 2 different 350VA APC units (one was replaced under warranty - excellent service), a 500VA APC unit and a couple of 350 VA "Power Sentry" units. This is for two separate computers (Gwen's and mine) over a 15 year period (they don't last forever!).
Currently my Power Sentry (bought on sale for a ridiculously low price) runs a 17" LCD monitor, Tower PC, Cable modem, router and Vonage phone adapter. After shutting down the computer it has about an hour of power for the phone adapter.

[Blossom/Jackie W.]

Spike; I had an APC; gotta tell ya it lasted for a good 12 years.....

[spike99]

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Thanks for your replies. Especially the detailed reply from Chris. You are correct. Not all computer items need to be on UPS (but should be conneced to Surge Protection). Thus, allowing more UPS "up time". Your details are much appreciated.

Yes. I like APC brand UPS units as well. We use the APC brand at work and the Server Support folks seem to like the APC brand the best. Although, the Backup UPS units they use are "sized" for larger Server boxes. Over kill for my typical home computer system.

After some more surfing on the APC site, I found a cool page. You enter your computer parts and its auto calculates your system's needed VA. For my current home system (and being upgraded to an IMAC in the future), their online tool spit out "Total Power (VA): 491". Thus, sounds like I should focus my attention on their larger then 500 VA range box. Hopefully, their APC UPS 550VA units comes on sale soon. The Power Centry 525VA unit looks cool as well. Which ever box is "most affordable". Hopefully, one of these boxes comes on sale soon.

re:
www.newpoint.com/products/100897.php
www.apc.com/products/resource/include/techspec_index.cfm?base_sku=BE550G&total_watts=200

Thanks again for your recommendations. Much appreciated.

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[spike99]

Update:

During the holiday season, I visited a Future Shop store (from some Mall Walking exercise) and stumbled upon their APC UPS Sale. At first, I couldn't believe their $100 "off" sale. Immediately, walked away with an APC 1300VA for only $129+ taxes (CDN dollars). Pretty darn good for a regular priced $229 + taxes unit. For more details, surf: www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?sku_id=0665000FS10088400

I'm sure this "over sized" 1300VA Backup/UPS unit will work great....

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[Deleted]

So spike you went to a seer and she said to you 'The Future holds good news for you.'