A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is a device that provides backup power to your electronic equipment when the main power source fails or fluctuates. It acts like a battery backup system that keeps computers, servers, networking gear, or other sensitive devices running for a short time during power outages, giving you a chance to save your work and shut down safely—or in some cases, keep running until power is restored.
Key Functions of a UPS:
- Power Backup – Supplies electricity for a limited time during a blackout using its internal battery.
- Surge Protection – Protects equipment from sudden spikes or surges in voltage.
- Voltage Regulation – Maintains steady power output during brownouts (low voltage) or overvoltages (high voltage).
- Safe Shutdown – Prevents data loss or corruption by giving you time to turn off devices properly.
Common Types of UPS:
- Standby (Offline) UPS – Kicks in only when power fails; good for home PCs.
- Line-Interactive UPS – Regulates minor voltage fluctuations; common for small businesses.
- Online (Double Conversion) UPS – Provides constant, clean power by always running off the battery; used for data centers and critical equipment.
Typical Uses:
- Computers and home offices
- Servers and data centers
- Networking equipment (routers, switches, modems)
- Medical equipment
- Security systems
👉 In short: a UPS keeps your devices running safely and consistently even when your main power isn’t.