A typical and most commonly misused Surge Suppressor or Surge Protector ONLY provides protection from a voltage spike. It reacts similarly to a household circuit breaker. Too much and it trips open, disconnecting the circuit. This is OK, but it is only one part of the potential power problem you may encounter. That is, higher than normal voltage. For lower than normal voltage or a "brown out" or power outage, you must have an uninterruptible power supply.

A UPS contains a battery and electronic circuit that filters voltage and keeps it in a very narrow, useable range and provides power when the "house power" goes out. This protects electronic gear and computers from damage.

Why use a UPS?

Electronic and computer-based equipment in industry, the service sector, or at home needs a high quality uninterrupted power supply.

The electrical distribution systems are subject to interference arising from atmospheric and industrial sources. The voltage supplied by electrical power providers is intended to supply a stable 110 volts.

In fact, no electrical installation is free of brown-outs, interference and variations in voltage. Many phenomena cause excess voltages (above 130 volts) or voltage drops (below 100 volts), and jeopardizes the operation of computer systems.

SUPs (Stable Uninterruptible Power Supplies) also known as inverters or UPSs (Uninterruptible Power Supplies) are an ideal way of providing vital protection for the operation of computer installations.

Whatever its power level, a UPS is the only way of ensuring a high quality electrical supply.