Generator or uninterruptible power supply: what to choose and what to pay attention to
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At the very moment when you need stable and continuous operation of electrical engineering, and the state of the energy infrastructure of Ukraine due to Russian shelling leaves much to be desired, it is worth thinking about an alternative solution.
< p>Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) and generator are two different devices that are used to provide uninterrupted power supply, but they have different principles of operation, purpose and features, which we will tell you about.
Uninterruptible power supply (UPS)
Such a system stores energy in a chemical form, charging from the network when there is current.
Furthermore, the uninterruptible power supply works in cyclic mode: it discharges, giving energy to connected devices, and then again charged from the system.
Provides protection of sensitive electronic devices from voltage fluctuations, short-term power outages and other electrical anomalies.
It also supplies power for a short period of time (from a few minutes to a few hours depending on the model) to safely shut down or switch to a backup power source.
In addition, it contains built-in rechargeable batteries that can be charged from the mains. .
In the event of a power outage, the uninterruptible power supply automatically switches to batteries, providing continuous power to connected devices.
Conveniently, it makes an instant switch to backup power. Voltage filtering and surge protection. Limited operating time, depending on the capacity of the batteries.
Generator
This device is used to provide power for a long period of time, especially in case of long power outages.
Intended to provide power to large facilities such as homes, businesses and other institutions.
It also runs on fuel, converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. Can function for a long time with fuel available, and does not provide instant switching to standby power, may have a slight delay during start-up. It needs regular maintenance and refueling.
Its minus compared to uninterrupted is that it is quite loud, it can disturb you and your neighbors.
Main differences and what to choose for yourself
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The uninterruptible power supply provides instant but short-term protection against power outages, while the generator provides long-term backup power but with some start-up delay.
If you have access to diesel fuel and are willing to refuel the unit from time to time, choosing a diesel generator may be a good idea.
It will provide economy and performance, although it can be noisy. At the same time, if you need to ensure the continuous operation of sensitive equipment without delays when switching to backup power, an uninterruptible power supply will be the optimal solution.
The choice between a generator and an uninterruptible power supply depends on specific needs, conditions and priorities, such as the duration of backup power, type equipment that needs protection and the availability of a service resource.
For a cottage, apartment or office, a linear-interactive UPS is the optimal solution. For example, if you often have short-term outages or significant voltage drops in your country, such a UPS will ensure uninterrupted operation of electrical appliances, preventing their damage. Connected devices will receive stable power, which is especially important for computers, TVs, routers and other sensitive devices.
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