As we all know, computers are incredibly sensitive pieces of electronic equipment and require a consistent flow of power to function. While there are many reasons that can lead to data loss, the largest percentage of data lost or corrupted is due to power problems. Issues with power quality can affect the reliability and performance of electronic equipment as well as causing unnecessary wear and tear on it.

The following power problems will affect your computers performance:

Surge / Spike: A temporary but very rapid increase in power supply. This is the most destructive problem as it is a large source of electrical distortion.

Brownout / Sag: A temporary dip in voltage levels. This is the most common power problem and often occurs without ever being noticed.

Electrical Line Noise: Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) and Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) which affects the electrical circuit by interrupting or reducing the effectiveness of the circuit.

Blackout / Outage: A total loss of power supply.

Swell: An increase in voltage.

Overvoltage: When the voltage has swelled above the designed voltage.

Issue with power are linked to corruption of data files, keyboard lock ups, unnecessary wear and tear on computer hardware and other electronic equipment and the most frustrating power problem of all – work and data completely lost.

To protect your electronic equipment, you should consider installing surge or overload protection power boards however these are only part of an effective consistent power supply solution. The installation of a UPS provides many advantages.