Belkin UPS

If you live in an area prone to unexpected power outages, you need one of these. If you live in an area prone to thunderstorms, you need one of these. If you live somewhere prone to ice storms, you need one of these. If you’re someone who needs their computer for work, you need one of these. If you fit into one of those categories, keep reading. About a year ago, my area kept experiencing brief power outages. They only lasted a few seconds, but it was long enough to shut the computer off. You might not think that’s a problem unless you don’t have your stuff backed up. Wrong.

• A few good knocks like that, and your entire OS can break. That’s right, boys and girls, you can wind up with the blue screen of death. You’ll recognize it, because, well, it's blue, and just has tons and tons and tons of numbers scrolling up and down. If you meet up with that screen, odds are that will be the end of your computer. Believe me, several qualified individuals had a go at fixing mine – no good.

• What happened next? I lost 2 out of 3 hard drives and whatever I’d currently been working on. Yeah, you can blame me for not clicking “save” every 5 seconds, but whatever. I honestly don’t have time to be doing that when the writing’s flowing.

• So just reinstall the OS, already. I did. It was like having a brand new computer – but without everything that had been installed previously. Office was gone, all my drivers were gone, etc, etc, etc. You know how full of useless crap a PC can be.

• So what did you do? I started over, and went on a mad hunt for something that would keep my computer going during a power outage. Enter the Belkin UPS.

• How does it work? They come in different sizes, with varying numbers of outlets. Mine has 6 outlets. 3 are only surge protection. It’s the OTHER 3 which really make the difference.

• Whats so special about those other 3? The Belkin UPS has its on power supply. So if the power cuts out, the UPS battery comes on (along with a warning alarm) and whatever’s plugged into it STAYS ON for the duration of the battery. Mine lasts for 20 minutes, I think.

• That’s not a very long time…. No, and your goal isn’t to use it a generator. You just want enough time to get to your computer, save what you want, and shut it down properly. Number 3 being the most important.

• How much do they cost? Mine ran about 80 bucks, but the price will vary depending on how many outlets and how strong the battery is.

• Where can I buy one? Your local electronics shop.

Not everyone needs one of these, obviously. But if you’re like me, you’re probably better off getting one. It’s far cheaper than replacing your computer if it comes to that.

xx Isabella