Smart_Battery_Backup
A Backup Article Contributed by Melissa Larose
Smart_Battery_Backup
Battery backup should be part of your recovery plan. Most of the time a battery backup is referred to as an uninterruptible power source because that is exactly what it is, uninterruptible and unstoppable. During an office disaster that involves electrical outages, a battery backup can be the day's hero.
Often hidden behind a computer's tower or shuffled to the far back corner of an employee's desk, a battery backup device can save the system from the stresses and surges most systems see during the course of a work day. Areas of the country that especially prone to surges and noise, such as San Francisco, should install battery backup immediately.
Battery Backup Advantages
Protecting your data and your equipment should be at the top of a disaster plan. A battery backup plays a role in protecting both data and equipment. Here is how.
A battery backup is plugged into the electrical outlet of your choice. Its system triggers the backup battery when it detects an outage. Your computer is plugged in to the battery backup so that when the backup detects an outage your computer stays on long enough to allow you to save and close all open files and then properly shutdown the computer. Many of these devices also monitor the wall outlet for surges, sags and spikes in the voltage.
They are oversized surge protectors and provide a smoother, continuous flow of electricity to your equipment. This save the wear and tear on your devices and allows for a long life for these devices.
Battery Backup Software
Today's battery backup sources work around the clock for your protection. Most battery backup devices now come bundled with a software package that guides your system during a power outage. Power outages don't necessarily happen when you are available to head off their aftermath. Software bundled with your battery backup can assist you when you aren't available.
By using the settings interface you can customize a few controls and tell your computer what to do if the power source indicates an outage. You can tell the computer how long to stay on the battery before shutting down. You can tell the software to save and close any open files or applications. You are also kept apprised of the status of your battery and the power source. And many battery backup devices come with ports for phone and modem protection as well as network line. Surges and spikes can come via these outlets as well.
Battery Backup Works for How Long?
The time a battery backup will stay powered up will depend on which product you have purchased. Standby battery backup sources will usually last 5 minutes and should only be used on individual computers and not as a battery backup for a network. Other, more expensive products provide longer battery time and can be extended in time frame usually by adding another power source unit.
Some systems are better documented and some have better software. It will take some research into your battery backup needs to know which product is better for your company.
