UPS Archives - Rick's Daily Tips

Q&A: Will a ‘Modified Sine Wave’ UPS damage a computer?

Posted on July 2, 2025

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Question from Celina: I have a question about battery backup devices, Rick.

I went to our local office supply store to buy a battery backup for my iMac and the man I talked to said I needed to pay extra for one that provides “pure sine wave” AC current. The one he tried to sell me costs over $100 more than the one I had planned to buy.

He said the cheaper “modified sine wave” models can damage my iMac because it was designed to only accept only a pure sine wave signal. Is that true? [Read more…]

Review: CyberPower PR1500LCD Smart App 1500VA/1500W Sinewave UPS

Posted on March 22, 2025

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As you probably know, a battery backup / UPS device can help protect your computer and other sensitive electronic gear from the hazards and inconvenience of power blackouts and brownouts.

And if your home or small office is located in an area that’s served by an unreliable power grid, it’s absolutely essential that you have your computer and other important equipment plugged into one.

I’ve tested and reviewed a number of these devices over the years, and for the most part they have all been quite reliable and effective.

I’ve been using a CyberPower PR1500LCD Smart App 1500VA/1500W Sinewave UPS for about two years now and I can tell you that it’s hands-down the best UPS device I have used to date.

[Read more…]

Why your modem and router need their own battery backup device

Posted on February 7, 2024

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You probably already know how important it is to keep your laptop and desktop computers plugged into a battery backup device.

But there are actually at least two other devices in your home that deserve a battery backup unit as well…

[Read more…]

Why you need a Battery Backup Device: A real-world example

Posted on July 2, 2023

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I receive dozens of emails every day from readers of this blog, most of them requesting assistance with computer problems or offering suggestions for posts on the blog.

I also receive quite a few messages offering feedback on one of my posts, and I always appreciate them.

I received a very nice message from a lady named Suzanne, and I’d like to share it with you: [Read more…]

Review: CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD PFC 1500VA 900W Sinewave UPS

Posted on June 18, 2023

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Is your home or office in an area that’s prone to frequent power outages?

Does it receive fluctuating power levels from the main grid?

If so, you’re surely aware of the need for a high-quality Battery Backup System or UPS.

[Read more…]