TOP—7. Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) for computers. Rating 2021!

To ensure the safety of information and minimize the risk of breakdown of office equipment, it is necessary to use an uninterruptible power supply for the computer - the device is responsible for the continuity of electricity supply in a certain time interval.

The use of a UPS is especially important when there are frequent outages or problems with the quality of the supplied electricity. Uninterruptible power supplies have differences in the power supply circuit, differ in power and other parameters, so you need to have a good understanding of the characteristics of those devices that are on sale.

To make the choice easier, we have prepared a review of the best UPS offers, described the operating features of different types of household uninterruptible power supplies, and also identified the main parameters that must be taken into account when purchasing such devices.

Content

• Why does a computer need an uninterruptible power supply?
• Which UPS is better to choose for sharing with a computer?
• Backup UPS (off-line)
• Line-interactive UPS
• Double voltage conversion UPS (on-line)

• How to choose a UPS for a computer based on power?
• What determines the choice of UPS battery life for a computer?
• Russian UPS models recommended for computers

PC protection solutions based on IMPULSE products

• UPS IMPULSE EXPERT
  (from 0.45 to 0.85 kVA) price
  from 4,030 to 4,926 rubles.
• UPS IMPULSE Junior
  (from 0.45 to 1 kVA) price
  from 3,433 to 6,120 rubles.
• UPS IMPULSE MASTER
  (from 0.6 to 1 kVA) price
  from 5,896 to 8,060 rubles.
• UPS IMPULSE Junior PRO
  (from 1 to 3 kVA) price
  from 19,404 to 29,927 rubles.
• UPS IMPULSE MINI
  (from 0.5 to 1 kVA) price
  from 14,777 to 17,016

UPS IMPULSE

– an excellent solution to ensure the safe operation of your PC. The manufacturer offers a large selection of UPS of various capacities and types. IMPULSE uninterruptible power supplies for computers are fully adapted to the power grids of various regions of Russia and have all the key qualities for providing power to sensitive equipment..

Why does a computer need an uninterruptible power supply?

The development of computer architecture has led to the fact that nowadays even a home desktop PC with average computing power parameters is a fairly powerful and complex computing system. However, modern computers can hardly be called perfect devices.

As before, power outages and sudden changes in network voltage pose serious vulnerabilities to PCs today. They are the causes of both hardware failures (elements of the power supply, motherboard, hard drive) and computer software errors (malfunctions, loss of unsaved data, damage to system files). If such consequences for home use of a “system unit” can be called extremely undesirable, then for office machines in the banking or financial sector that store and process large volumes of important data, they are in no way acceptable.

The most effective way to protect computers and power-sensitive peripheral devices from power outages and low-quality voltage is to use UPS - uninterruptible power supplies. A properly selected UPS will not only protect expensive office equipment from breakdowns due to fluctuations in the mains voltage, but will also guarantee protection from the loss of important unsaved data and damage to system files in the event of a sudden power outage.

The main function of any “uninterruptible power supply” is to ensure normal operation of the load in the event of a complete absence or deviation of the voltage in the main (main) supply network from the permissible values. Continuity of power supply to the load (in our case, a PC) connected via a UPS, in the event of a shutdown or unacceptable voltage fluctuations in the network, will be ensured by the device switching to offline mode and powered by batteries.

The presence of such optional features as constant stabilization of voltage and current frequency, filtering of pulses and noise in the main network is determined by the type of UPS. Of course, greater functionality, and, accordingly, the complexity of the internal structure of a UPS for a computer will affect its cost. However, by comparing the cost of a PC and a UPS, one can come to the obvious conclusion about the demand for its use not only in the commercial sphere, but also for home use.

Top quality UPS for computers

IPPON Back Verso 800

A backup uninterruptible power supply with an output power of 480 W will protect your office computer from sudden changes. There are also 6 additional connectors, with which you can power all sensitive equipment and be calm during the next surge.

There is single-phase voltage at the input and output, like most UPSs. The input voltage varies from 170 to 270 V. For convenience, there are informative indicator lights and an audible alert, so the user will not miss a notification about the lack of voltage. There is a cold start.

The battery charging time is about 16 hours, which is more of a disadvantage. It is possible to replace old batteries with new ones, this increases the usefulness, since not all products support this option. A nice bonus is the presence of a high degree of protection. So the IPPON Back Verso 800 has almost everything from standard noise filtering to telephone line protection.

The warranty period is 2 years, the warranty is the same. Weight – 4 kg.

The average cost is 4,000 rubles.

IPPON Back Verso 800

Advantages:

• Good performance considering the type of UPS;
• Quiet operation;
• Non-irritating alarm sound;
• 6 euro sockets;
• Compactness;
• Assembly;
• Several degrees of protection.

Flaws:

• Not suitable for a powerful computer.

Energy Guarantor 500

This is an improved version of the standard Energy Guarantor, which is designed to ensure PC safety in the event of an emergency. The device is placed on the floor, which is convenient for most. There is also a nice informative display with which you can track the current status and improved circuitry, which increases the service life up to 10 years and reduces electricity.

The disadvantage of such a UPS is the presence of one outlet. Output power is 500 VA or 300 W, which also does not reach the top spot, but good protection and simple controls have won the trust of users. Warranty – 1 year, service life declared by the manufacturer – 10 years.

The average price is 8,000 rubles.

Energy Guarantor 500

Advantages:

• The noise is not annoying;
• Convenient control;
• Doesn't take up much space;
• An additional battery is connected;
• Automatic By-pass.

Flaws:

• One connector.

Powercom RAPTOR RPT-600A EURO

Uninterruptible power supply from a good budget manufacturer, which will take a special place among those who like to save money. The internal components are of high quality; no problems were found with boards hanging on one bolt, as with some Chinese versions. The case is made of cheap but pleasant plastic; when unpacking there is a slight smell, which confirms this, but over time it evaporates.

Among the positive aspects, the output power is 360 W and the presence of three sockets. The device operates with a voltage range from 160 to 275 V, which is also a good result, considering the price tag of an uninterruptible power supply. Of course, there is no LCD display, but this UPS does not need it.

Overload and short circuit protection will keep your PC safe and prevent it from breaking down. The noise level emitted during operation is 40 dB, which can be compared to a slightly loud whisper. Sleeping with the equipment on or off is up to the user.

The average cost is 2,000 rubles.

Powercom RAPTOR RPT-600A EURO

Advantages:

• The connectors are recessed;
• Suitable option for a computer;
• High-quality overload signals;
• The UPS will automatically put the computer into hibernation mode;
• Doesn't heat up.

Flaws:

• There aren't any for that price.

APC by Schneider Electric Back-UPS BX500CI

A popular uninterruptible power supply, which in its characteristics can be compared with the previous version. But this device will benefit in the switching speed to the battery, which is 6 ms. Output power is 300 W, which will allow you to connect your computer and peripherals without danger. For convenience, there are three connectors. The case is made of good plastic, so it will not cause much discomfort when unpacking. The input voltage is 155-280 V, which makes it possible to use an uninterruptible power supply in low-voltage conditions.

LEDs and sound are used for indication, which is typical for budget models. There is protection against short circuits and surges, and there is noise filtering. The user can easily replace the battery when the standard one becomes unusable. The fuse type is automatic.

Weight – 5 kg. 2 year warranty.

The average cost is 5,400 rubles.

APC by Schneider Electric Back-UPS BX500CI

Advantages:

• Compactness;
• High-quality execution;
• Adjusting the signal volume;
• Easy controls;
• Reliability.

Flaws:

• Long battery replacement, requiring complete disassembly of the device;
• Crackling sound when running on battery.

APC by Schneider Electric Back-UPS BK500EI

Another model from this manufacturer, only in this case the uninterruptible power supply is reversible. The device has proven itself well in the market and is in demand among users. The output power is the same as the previous model (300 W). The changes affected the number of sockets, there are 4 of them in this device, although only 3 are powered by the battery, this is important to take into account when choosing. The switching speed is 6ms, which is enough. But this is not why users like the device; its main feature is its efficiency, which is 99%, and the absorbed pulse energy is 310 J.

There is an Ethernet 10/100 interface and a cold start function, which is rare for backup types. A high degree of protection from interference, surges, and overloads will protect not only the computer, but also the peripherals from negative consequences.

The average cost is 7,200 rubles.

APC by Schneider Electric Back-UPS BK500EI

Advantages:

• Performance;
• efficiency;
• Ethernet interface;
• Easy battery replacement;
• Doesn't take up space.

Flaws:

• Loud sound alerts.

IPPON Back Power Pro II 600

A good UPS that will impress the user not only with its price and LCD display, but also with good performance. So, the output power will be 360 ​​W, and the time spent on switching will be 10 ms, which is enough for the computer not to detect power problems. There are 4 euro sockets, where each is powered by a battery in case of a problem.

There is full USB support and a convenient display, thanks to which a person can track the current state without effort and draw appropriate conclusions about the work. To ensure greater safety, the manufacturer has equipped the device with 6 degrees of protection, so, in addition to fluctuations, the equipment monitors the state of the local network and telephone line, which gives it an additional advantage.

The average cost is 3,400 rubles.

IPPON Back Power Pro II 600

Advantages:

• Price;
• Automatic troubleshooting every time you turn on;
• Easy setup;
• Informative display;
• USB port;
• 4 connectors.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Energy Pro 1700

This option is intended for people who use a gaming computer, and along with it other demanding and sensitive equipment. The output power of this model is 1200 W, which is enough to connect almost the entire house, but there is a slight limitation due to the number of connectors: there are only two. This is a big minus, because buying such a device is at least not practical if the voltage used is 700-900 W.

So that a person does not experience difficulties with work, there is a convenient display where all information about the current state is displayed. There is an audible alarm and cold start. This device is more intended for connecting a couple of demanding PCs, but not just one, then the power will pay off and the performance will please you.

The average cost is 20,000 rubles.

Energy Pro 1700

Advantages:

• High-quality Russian assembly;
• 10 years of active use;
• Output power;
• Display;
• Easy to set up;
• The signal shape is a sinusoid.

Flaws:

• 2 sockets.

Which UPS is better to choose for sharing with a computer?

It is safe to say that the use of any type of UPS to power personal computers is already a serious step in organizing their protection from software failures, loss of information data and hardware failures. However, the level of protection provided largely depends on the type of uninterruptible power supply used.

Based on the operating topology and internal structure, modern UPSs are divided into the following types:

• reserve;
• linear-interactive;
• online with double conversion.

Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of each of them when used together with a computer.

Backup UPS (off-line)

This is a class of the simplest devices with little functionality - switching to autonomous operation from a battery in the event of power outages or voltage deviations in the main electrical network from the norm.

An advantage worth mentioning is their price. The use of devices in this budget segment makes it possible to implement passable computer protection at relatively low financial costs.

As a rule, the non-sinusoidal shape of the output signal of such UPSs allows them to be used to power PC system units that are undemanding in terms of voltage shape. However, for some voltage-sensitive peripheral devices (copiers, laser printers, scanners, optical drives), the use of backup UPSs with a modified sine wave cannot be called a good solution.

The most significant disadvantages include the lack of high-quality voltage stabilization and filtering when operating from the main network and a rather long transition time to offline mode and back.

Line-interactive UPS

The presence of voltage stabilization and less time spent switching to off-line operation and back makes devices of this type more preferable for implementing uninterruptible power supply systems for computers. UPS models of this type may differ in the shape of the output voltage: with a regular (pure) and a modified sine wave.

The disadvantages of linear-interactive devices are, as a rule, stepwise adjustment of the input voltage and the presence of a transition time to offline mode, which can cause the PC to freeze and printer printing errors.

These “uninterruptible power supplies” can be recommended for use in networks with relatively small voltage deviations in frequency and magnitude and provided that a possible failure in the PC will not lead to financial losses (for example, for home use).

Double voltage conversion UPS (on-line)

This type of UPS represents the most advanced group of devices today. Even when used in networks with low voltage quality, double conversion technology (AC to DC and output AC) provides power with benchmarks in terms of compliance with the nominal value and stability, as well as in terms of current frequency and the absence of impulse noise and harmonic distortion waves in the network .

The ideal sinusoidality of the output signal makes online UPSs universal power supplies for any load, suitable not only for working with a PC (which is important, given the need to connect peripheral equipment that is demanding on the signal form).

The main advantage of using these “uninterruptible power supplies” to power computer equipment is the complete absence of transition time to offline operation in the event of a power outage in the main network or a critical deviation of its voltage value from the norm.

This maximum level of uninterruptible power supply is achieved thanks to the use in the UPS of a circuit with batteries constantly connected to the load power supply circuit (which, in fact, became the reason for the conventional name of the device type - “online”).

Variety of UPS

Over the past 10 years, the uninterruptible power supply market has made great progress. Maybe not every year, but manufacturers improve their models. So they try to improve the characteristics and lower the price tag so that the product wins 90% of the shelves. Despite thousands of options, ingenious designs, differences in voltage range and other parameters, uninterruptible power supplies come in three groups:

• Reserve. The main function of such models is to connect internal batteries in the event of an unexpected power outage and the subsequent resumption of “home” power after solving the problems. Such UPSs do not have sufficient power and are often designed to quickly save data and properly shut down the computer. It will not be able to function fully without electricity. The design is ordinary, the additional functions are luxurious. The main disadvantage of such UPSs is that there is no voltage stabilizer, but more than half of the buyers know about this, so they buy them when they are sure that they are not in danger.
• Interactive. Uninterruptible power supply systems of this type belong to the middle class category. They have a voltage stabilizer, so sudden drops or shutdowns are not a problem for them. The PC is always supplied with stable power, which increases the life of the elements and extends the average service life. In the event of an excessive voltage drop or a complete network shutdown, power will be supplied from the built-in batteries. Such uninterruptible power supplies are common among most buyers, as they have a reasonable price tag and additional charges. possibilities.
• With double conversion. This type is only used for expensive devices or servers. It is difficult to find it in everyday life, but in large enterprises the use of such an uninterruptible power supply is mandatory. Only he is able to provide equipment with complete protection from negative influences. The principle of operation is simple: the supplied alternating current from a standard network is rectified and converted into direct current, after which it is supplied to the output of the device, where the reverse process occurs. Accordingly, the cost of such UPS exceeds 20,000 rubles. Therefore, a rare user will want to invest in a personal computer.

It is important to remember that some premium power supplies are equipped with modules that provide continuous connection between input and output. This allows you to reduce power costs during power outages.

How to choose a UPS for a computer based on power?

One of the most important technical parameters when choosing a UPS for a computer is its power. Obviously, it must have a reserve relative to the total power consumption of connected electrical appliances. The UPS power reserve recommended by modern manufacturers is 20-30% of the total power of the load planned to be connected.

Before purchasing a UPS, you should first decide what kind of equipment will be connected to it. The correct choice of UPS assumes that the device must not only “cope” with the load, but also not have a power reserve greater than recommended, which will naturally affect the cost of the device. Therefore, say, the need for additional uninterruptible power supply to a laser printer, the oven of which may have a peak power consumption of 1-2 kW, needs serious justification.

What parameters to focus on when choosing a UPS

One of the main characteristics by which you need to choose a UPS is the maximum permissible power of the connected devices. Uninterruptible power supply can be used for a PC (system unit and monitor), router, office equipment, set-top boxes and other devices. The electricity they consume must be summed up.

The power of the UPS is indicated in VA (volt-amperes) or in W. When selecting a device, it is important not to confuse these indicators.

It is best to have a power reserve of 30-40%. Firstly, the computer can be upgraded to increase performance or additional peripherals can be connected to it.

And secondly, the battery life of household batteries (this is the second most important indicator) at maximum load is small and is usually 1-3 minutes.

At a consumption level of 50-70% of the maximum, batteries can power devices for much longer: 6-20 minutes for household models.

Some UPSs allow the connection of external batteries. This significantly extends battery life. A low-power computer can work for several hours

The input voltage range determines to what values ​​the uninterruptible power supply will not power the computer from batteries. If the voltage drops frequently, you should not use devices whose lower limit of this interval is greater than 180 V. Otherwise, frequently turning the batteries on and off will lead to a rapid loss of their capacity.

The number of output connectors does not at all guarantee the connection of the corresponding number of computer peripheral devices - the UPS is capable of carrying a certain power. It is always recommended to estimate the total volt-amperes of devices.

Many UPSs have an LCD display and/or a connection to a computer via a USB port. This allows you to program their actions in case of problems with power supply, as well as inform the computer operating system about this.

When placing uninterruptible power supplies in residential or office premises, their noise level is important. Devices operating on a backup power circuit do not emit much heat and do not have coolers, so they are the quietest.

If the UPS is paired with a computer and its fan is working properly, then it produces a sound comparable in power to the noise of the system unit. Sometimes, when overloaded, the uninterruptible power supply can produce high-frequency irritating sounds.

And the last parameter that needs to be taken into account is the weight of the device. Especially if its place will be on the shelves of a computer desk or there are plans to mount the device on the wall.

UPSs are often installed for other household appliances; read more about choosing such devices in the articles:

1. Uninterruptible power supply for TV: ten best UPS models + valuable tips before purchasing
2. UPS for gas heating boilers: purpose, review of models, maintenance tips

What determines the choice of UPS battery life for a computer?

The choice of this equally important indicator depends not only on the power consumption of the equipment connected to the UPS, but also on the possible duration of power outages in the main network, as well as the specific requirements for uninterruptible power supply of the PC.

To explain the latter, we can compare examples of the need to maintain the computer’s functionality for one hour or more and five minutes, which is quite sufficient to save information data and turn it off correctly. It is obvious that the technical characteristics of the UPS in terms of battery life, depending on the battery capacity, in the given examples will differ significantly.

Ample opportunities for increasing the duration of autonomous mode are provided by the use of UPS models that support the connection of additional batteries. Increasing the capacity of the built-in batteries by connecting external ones allows you to repeatedly scale the operating time of the uninterruptible power supply. Such UPSs with support for the use of external batteries will be especially in demand for critical server equipment, routers, hubs and other network devices, the full functioning and stability of which 24/7 is a prerequisite.

Selecting a UPS for a PC

When buying an uninterruptible power supply, it is important to pay almost all your attention not only to the manufacturer, but also to the technical characteristics. It is better if a person considers both options at once. After all, in the 21st century, write in those. Almost anything can be done in the parameters, but only an experienced specialist can check it. Also, we must not forget about the capabilities of the computer itself and build only on this. Then the protection will be good, and the risk of defeat is minimal. According to the main selection criteria, the following parameters are distinguished: power, operating time when the power is off, number of connectors, the presence of special software, light indication, control method.

What to look for when choosing by power

This is the main parameter when choosing not only an uninterruptible power supply for a computer, but also for almost any equipment. Its importance comes first, only then is the operating time, etc., considered. The right choice is if the power of the computer is lower than that of the UPS. Otherwise, an overload will occur with further shutdown, and the purchased device will not be able to implement primary functions. For a successful purchase, it is important to purchase a device with a power that will be 30% higher than the connected equipment along with additional equipment. Only then will the user be confident in the correct operation of protection against power surges or power outages.

So, the acceptable power value for a standard office or simple computer is 300-500 VA. Such uninterruptible power supplies will fit perfectly into the work and will protect the connected equipment until the expiration date. However, some users connect a video card that consumes 250 W, plus the rest of the peripherals and a recommended unit of 500 VA, you can put it on a shelf or give it to the office, because in this case you will need a device with a power of 800 VA or more. Only he is able to cope with the entire load that the system will produce when the lights are turned off, and backup power supplies disappear immediately, because there are practically no representatives capable of protecting the PC.

If a person has difficulty calculating electrical energy, then the best option is to seek help from a specialist rather than taking it at random. Alternatively, some sites offer online energy calculations and suggest a specific model based on the results.

Select by operating time

The second important parameter is the duration of operation during an unplanned power outage. This value must be looked at in the technical characteristics of the purchased equipment. The indicator depends on the capacity of the batteries, which are located inside the case. For standard models, the working time period is from 10 to 15 minutes, this is completely enough to quickly save all files, stop the current session and immediately turn off the computer. However, if the user needs a longer period, then online stores provide him with this opportunity. So, by going to the website, you can filter uninterruptible power supplies to the required model. In addition, the duration of operation when the light is off is increased by connecting additional batteries through the appropriate connector.

Most often, companies involved in the production of UPS indicate battery life taking into account the maximum load, i.e. when using all power. However, not every company will agree that this is a true indicator, since it is often rounded to a value that is more pleasant for the person. You can also find this parameter on the official websites of manufacturers and correctly calculate the work for a specific situation, which is more convenient than coming to the store and not parting with a calculator.

Buying an uninterruptible power supply thinking that the battery life depends on the power is wrong. Only the load size and battery capacity can answer this question.

Select by Accessibility

The technical characteristics discussed above are the main ones, and only focusing on them, a reliable device is selected. It is important to consider them first and only then proceed to additional features aimed at simplifying management.

• Software. Most modern UPS systems for PCs come with a special disk. It contains a utility that is installed on the computer and keeps operation statistics. The received information is stored in memory. This is a useful feature, the presence of which will simplify the operation of the device.
• Number of connectors. The simplest models are equipped with a single connector for connecting a PC, and this is not very practical in some cases. Because a PC always includes peripheral devices that cannot be used if the power supply is not working correctly. To avoid getting into such trouble, it is important to know how many devices will be connected and be sure to calculate the total power. Then a choice is made in favor of a specific model.
• Indication and control methods. The best option is an uninterruptible power supply with light and sound indication of operating modes. In addition, most models are equipped with an informative display that notifies the user about the current state of the unit. It is also welcome to have control modules for customization for a specific network. Thanks to this, service life and efficiency will increase.
• Replacement battery. As practice shows, the first thing that fails is the battery. And this is normal, since the battery has its own cycle of discharge and charge, after overcoming which it becomes unusable. Therefore, it is important to buy a device that supports replacement. After all, it is easier to buy a new battery than to replace a working uninterruptible power supply.

In addition to the presented characteristics, some users pay attention to the presence of interfaces, degree of protection, etc. This is also important, but does not require close attention; these parameters, on the contrary, help you choose a practical option from two, at first glance, identical models. Therefore, it is the buyer’s right to ignore or look at them.

Russian UPS models recommended for computers

The technical characteristics of the Shtil UPS models proposed below ideally meet all the requirements for quality and uninterrupted power supply for computer, network and office equipment.

Model range of uninterruptible power supplies "Stil" for computers:

• floor standing online UPS series ST-SL 1-3 kVA (with built-in batteries);
• floor standing online UPS ST-L series 1-3 kVA (without built-in batteries);
• online UPS of universal design (floor-standing/rackmount) of the STR series 1-3 kVA (with built-in batteries with the possibility of their “hot” replacement).

comparison table

The table shows the main characteristics that will allow you to make the right choice. Of these, the power and number of consumers that can be connected to an uninterruptible power supply deserve more attention.