“The electricity crisis has severely compromised key growth sectors.” This statement regarding power cuts in South Africa was reported by Bloomberg in August 2009.
Jacques Liebenberg, product manager for Eaton Power Quality, AxizWorkgroup, said “Although South Africa is currently experiencing fewer power cuts, companies should still ensure they have a continuous power supply solution. By establishing an infrastructure that allows business continuation despite power cuts, power surges and blackouts as a result of lightning storms or base station malfunction, customers are able to minimise the negative effects on their operations.”
An uninterruptible power system (UPS) provides instantaneous protection from power interruptions. Liebenberg explains: “A UPS is the first line of defence against surges and power outages, and is a reliable solution for businesses, factories, offices and even home use. And also an ideal power solution to electrical equipment that on failure may result in injuries, fatalities, significant business disruption or data loss.”
Ranging in size and capabilities, a UPS is frequently used to maintain power to computers, data centres and telecommunication equipment. A UPS can provide power to a computer, an entire building or even cities. This variety of application means that when choosing a UPS solution, customers should assess the requirements of the power supply unit inside their IT equipment, as this will influence UPS selection, reliability and performance.
Many companies have installed or investigated installing generators to combat power loss; however, this route can be very costly especially for smaller operations. Installation of a UPS can provide a quality solution at an affordable price.
“By providing a continuous supply of power to all devices connected to the UPS, customers are able to avoid malfunction, damage and downtime that can result from the inevitable power cuts and surges,” concludes Liebenberg.
