The key differences between a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) and a surge protector are:
- Functionality:
- Surge protector: Protects devices from voltage spikes and surges.
- UPS: Provides backup power during outages and protects from surges.
- Power outage protection:
- Surge protector: Does not provide power during outages.
- UPS: Keeps devices running for a short time during power loss.
- Components:
- Surge protector: Contains circuitry to divert excess voltage.
- UPS: Includes a battery and circuitry for power conversion and surge protection.
- Cost:
- Surge protector: Generally less expensive.
- UPS: More expensive due to additional components.
- Use cases:
- Surge protector: Suitable for most electronics that don’t require continuous power.
- UPS: Ideal for computers, servers, and critical equipment needing uninterrupted power.
- Data protection:
- Surge protector: Does not prevent data loss from sudden power cuts.
- UPS: Allows time to save work and safely shut down devices during outages.
- Power regulation:
- Surge protector: Does not regulate voltage.
- UPS: Often includes voltage regulation for consistent power output.
In summary, a surge protector is primarily for protecting against voltage spikes, while a UPS provides both surge protection and temporary backup power during outages.