The world runs on 24/7 commerce more efficiently than ever before. With high speed Internet, efficient computers and automated processing, even small businesses are getting in on virtually uninterrupted services. Unfortunately, virtually uninterrupted comes with a lot of caveats, including computer breakdowns, Internet outages and power outages. There's computer repair technicians and Internet Service Provider calls for the first two issues, but take the time to understand how you can mitigate power outage problems and give your computer systems a bit more time.

Start With The UPS

An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is a valuable, relatively low-cost way to add extra power support to your computers. Like a laptop's battery, the UPS can give a few extra minutes or hours to computer use before the system has to shut down. This is useful for saving information and shutting systems down to avoid damage.

The UPS is basically a battery inside a power management computer case. The computer isn't a high power demand system like a desktop or laptop, and is used to measure how much power is delivered to the connected devices at a time.

There are power strips located on the surface of the UPS, much like a power strip or surge protector. In fact, many high-end UPS units provide surge protection functions and warranties in case of damage.

In order to gauge the amount of time you have on UPS power, you'll need to perform a dry run of sorts. Follow the UPS instructions for properly charging the unit for the first time and let it charge to full. Unplug the UPS from the wall (or other power outlet), connect all the devices required to use your computer properly and let the computer run until power is lost.

On more sophisticated units, the time is measured on a dedicated screen, but may still require your own testing to be safe. It's just an estimate, and it's better to have a physical observation of what your UPS can accomplish.

Standby Generator Power Support

For large-scale computer systems, or if your business is based on emergency services/disaster relief, you'll need power to go beyond saving information and into full operations. 

Standby generators can power an entire office or building, and can be powered by a number of fuel sources. Liquid fuel such as diesel or gasoline are used to power some generators, while solar power and conversion has become a great way to charge a robust battery system. There are even hybrid fuel and solar systems to reduce fuel usage while conserving stored battery power.

Backup generators can be free-standing and connected with extension cables, but to get the best business use, you'll need to integrate the wiring with your building's wiring. To discuss the right generator system for your emergency power at any level, contact a standby generator professional such as Original Donnelly Heating Cooling & Electric.