Power outages, brownouts, and voltage spikes cost Australian businesses money every year — through lost work, corrupted data, and damaged hardware. A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is the simple fix. But choosing the right one isn't obvious if you haven't done it before.
What Does a UPS Actually Do?
A UPS sits between your power outlet and your equipment. When mains power fails or fluctuates, the UPS switches to its internal battery — keeping your computer, monitor, and network gear running long enough to save your work and shut down safely. Higher-end models also include AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulation), which smooths out sags and surges before they reach your equipment.
What Size UPS Do I Need?
UPS capacity is measured in VA (volt-amperes). Here's a simple guide for Australian small business setups:
- Under 500VA: Suitable for a single laptop or networking equipment only.
- 750VA: Covers a desktop computer and single monitor. The APC Back-UPS 750VA is the most popular choice for standard office desks in Australia.
- 950VA: Suitable for dual-monitor workstations, larger tower PCs, or small NAS and networking gear. The APC Back-UPS 950VA handles these comfortably.
- 1500VA+: Small server rooms, rack-mounted networking equipment, or multiple workstations.
Australian Sockets — What to Check
Not all UPS units ship with Australian Type I sockets. Always confirm the model is the Australian variant (look for "-AZ" in the part number). Both APC models we stock — the BX750MI-AZ and BX950MI-AZ — include Australian sockets natively.
How Long Will It Run During a Blackout?
Runtime depends on the load. A 750VA UPS powering a typical desktop and monitor will typically give 5–10 minutes — enough to save your work and shut down. If you need longer runtime, go up in VA or consider a model with replaceable/expandable battery packs.
Buy UPS Units in Australia
TechAuthority stocks APC Back-UPS units with Australian sockets, sourced through Ingram Micro with full Australian warranty. Browse our UPS range or contact us for a quote on larger or rack-mounted systems.