Uninterruptable Power Source/Surge Protector

[Jaysi]

So, now that I have a full time job and some spending money, I've started looking into a computer set up. I thought, gee it would be nice if there was a surge protector with backup power in case I have a desktop/router and the power goes out for a few seconds... and low and behold there's such a thing. I was just wondering if any of you had any advice on selecting one(and if you know of any that arnt gigantic).

 

Feel free to discuss other things such as dual/triple monitors, keyboards(lit or etc), mouses, chairs, USB docking stations (I just bought one to easily hook up my lab top or surface to my monitors, keyboard and mouse), etc.

 

I'm also considering building a desktop. Any thoughts or advice?

 

Thanks guys.

[Midknight]

The most important thing is to determine whether or not the power supply in your computer requires a true sine wave power signature. Electricity coming directly out of the outlet has a sine wave shape, but normal UPSs typically have a square wave shape. Some UPSs have a "simulated sine wave" which is more of a step triangle shape. These won't work if your comp requires the same kind of sine wave that comes directly from the outlet. When I got my current computer about 5 years ago, I was still using the same old UPS that ran my old computer. But then, I found that when the power went out, the computer would shut off and rapidly cycle on and off maybe 10 times/sec because my UPS didn't use a pure sine function.

 

Other than that, it's basically just a small-scale lead acid battery (same type that's in a car) with plugs. You only really need enough power to keep the computer and monitor running long enough until either the power comes back on or you can properly shut them down. Beyond that, get enough to run your modem/router so micro-outages won't knock out your internet. Don't worry about peripherals like speakers, printers, etc. I'm currently using a CyberPower 1000PFCLCD and it will keep my computer, monitor, and modem/router combo running for a solid 10 minutes with 600 Watts. I've had it for 5 years and just replaced the battery a few months ago. It has an LCD display that shows how power, life, and load and you can hook up a USB to automatically run shut down if the battery level starts getting too low. It's currently about $140 on NewEgg.

[SCV]

If you consider building desktop, consider what you want your desktop for (gaming, regular use, etc). Also, consider whether or not you want to upgrade it in the future and price range. Can't tell you too much without knowing what you want your desktop for and price range.

[PlantMan]

My best advice is don't cheap out on the PSU/Fan. A moron friend of mine once did, one month later $2000 of equipment blew up.

[Jaysi]

Thanks for the advice guys.

 

Midknight, I had no idea about the problems some power sources have trying to replicate AC power, thanks for the heads up. Kind of sucks they go bad that quickly.

 

In regards to a new computer, I just have to see how much gaming I'm going to have time for. Would be nice to actually play games with graphics on high for once, but not sure if it's going to be worth the investment.

[Midknight]

Kind of sucks they go bad that quickly.

 

Keep in mind it's just the battery that goes bad, not the entire unit. I bought the replacement battery for far less than a whole new UPS would cost so it isn't that bad. Not much different than needing to eventually replace the battery in your car.

[DavidChan]

I only heard of UPS, which I learned about when I visited local Fry's Electronics store. Don't know much about it. Perhaps, a Tesla home battery? haha

 

As for dual or triple monitors. I think two monitors are enough. Third one is just for the luls. I had two 60hz monitor for so many years. Recently wanted to test out 144hz for gaming, so I now have three. I rarely use the third one unless I work. lucky to work at home.

 

 

Here my setup. Ignore the chair. I can't believe I listened to the reviews online for this over-hyped chair. Get a Herman Miller Aeron or something.

 

 

 

 

[Jaysi]

What size are your monitors David?

 

I'm assuming their mounted to the desk?

Edited October 30, 2016 by Jaysi

[DavidChan]

They're all 24", and they're not mounted to the desk. I can move around it left, right, forward, and back by just picking up by the bar attached to the stand in the middle. It is called Triple monitor stand.

[SCV]

Thanks for the advice guys.

 

Midknight, I had no idea about the problems some power sources have trying to replicate AC power, thanks for the heads up. Kind of sucks they go bad that quickly.

 

In regards to a new computer, I just have to see how much gaming I'm going to have time for. Would be nice to actually play games with graphics on high for once, but not sure if it's going to be worth the investment.

 

If just for gaming, something like the gtx 750 ti would be enough. I would recommend invest mostly on the motherboard and CPU. The rest can be added later on to suit your needs. For power supply, I recommend using corsair. The rest is up to you.

[DoraKnita]

hi!