An uninterruptible power supply, or a UPS, is a type of electrical device that is capable of providing emergency power to a load in the event that the power fails from the mains or the regular input power source. While this sounds very similar to an ancillary power source, or in emergency power source there are differences. The main difference is the UPS is capable of providing protection from power interruptions instantaneously.

It utilizes the energy that has been stored in the batteries, flywheels, or super capacitors. Therefore, it is quickly and easily accessible by the unit that needs the power. Essentially, this is a battery backup. A number of different types of devices can be plugged into one of the UPS systems. In many cases, they are used for computers and monitors, but they can be used for a wide range of other types of electrical devices as well.
 

The uninterruptible power supply is available in a wide range of different sizes and shapes. Most of the time, they are rectangular in their freestanding. It will generally sit on the floor and be relatively close to the item that it is powering. They tend to be rather heavy, but they can still be portable. There are also large options for networks and servers and even data centers.

On the front of the UPS, there will be a power switch that allows the you to turn the device off and on. In some cases, there may be additional buttons for other functions. Some of the options have LCD screens. These screens are used to show the user how much power is being used and how much of a charge the batteries inside have. The batteries themselves are rechargeable.

If you need to have an uninterruptible power supply, you need to know exactly how many of these power supplies you will need to accommodate your work or project. In some cases, you might only need one. You will want to have an idea of how long the power will last when it kicks on, as well as have an understanding of the features that the machines offer. Keep in mind that different machines may have different features as well as different runtimes concerning the additional power.
 

A number of different companies make these types of products today including APC, Cisco, Monster, Tripp Lite, and more.