Tech Awareness: Surge Protector, AVR, UPS: Are they really important?

One must comprehend the importance of surge protectors, automated voltage regulators (AVRs), and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) to safeguard valuable equipment. These devices primarily serve to shield computers and other devices from power-related issues such as lightning, power fluctuations, and blackouts.

Surge Protector: What is its purpose?

It prevents power surge at the connected device or devices. The gadget receives power from the main and could be harmed by excessive power.

A metal oxide varistor (MOV) with a lower resistance at greater voltages is a characteristic of a surge protector. The MOV provides considerable resistance when a live circuit is connected to the ground wire. This occurs when the live wire, which is the source of electricity, is not being conducted. This happens in normal situations.

However, when there is a surge, resistance drops. To prevent the surge from reaching any connected devices, the MOV will begin diverting into the live wire.

Automatic Voltage Regulator or AVR.

An AVR is necessary for individuals residing in areas with an unstable power supply. When the input voltage is excessively high or exceeds the standard voltage used by appliances, an AVR works to normalize the voltage.

The AVR is capable of handling voltage dips or surges by raising or lowering the voltage when it surpasses the 220 thresholds, just like the surge protector can. As a result, since AVR balances out the voltage applied to a device, it can also protect your equipment. Although AVR adjusts for voltage variations, it is just barely effective in preventing surges.

Uninterruptible Power Supply or UPS.

What does a UPS do for a computer?

During a power interruption, an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) allows a computer to continue running for a short amount of time. The reserve of energy is also maintained and replenished as long as utility power is available.

To ensure that the computer remains powered for the desired duration, it is recommended to choose a UPS with a battery capacity that matches or exceeds the ideal runtime. This will help prevent unexpected shutdowns and data loss during power outages.

Among the three devices, the UPS is the most expensive as it combines a surge protector, voltage regulator, and backup battery to prevent power interruptions, offering comprehensive safety for electronic units.

By investing in these devices, one can protect valuable equipment, prevent data loss, and ensure uninterrupted productivity. It is important to make an informed decision and choose the right combination of power protection devices for one's needs. It is crucial to remember that when it comes to protecting devices, it is better to be safe than sorry.