Adding a Surge Protector and an Uninterruptable Power Source (UPS).

1. Surge Protectors. Surge Protectors are designed to interrupt the power supply to your computer when a very high voltage is passed down the electric wire toward your electronic device. The power surges generally come from lightening; however, any surge beyond a given tolerance will trip the circuit and immediately stop power to your device.

   You should look at your surge protector periodically to see if the power light is on, or if it is blinking. If it is blinking, you have no surge protection. A second surge will kill your device. Also, a surge protector does not "condition" the power.

2. UnInterruptable Power Supply (UPS).
   1. UPSs can cost as little as $80.00 and up to $4600.00 for multiple systems. It is probably the one most important device, especially if your power source is unstable, for preventing crashes or burn-outs.
   2. UPSs filter power through a "battery", giving you constant voltage to your device.
   3. Modern UPSs have a connection to a PC that will notify the PC that the power to the UPS has failed, and that the UPS power will be depleted in a given time.
   4. Batteries have to be replaced every 3-4 years.
   5. A UPS is an absolute necessity for your servers.
   6. I would take a UPS to the field to filter "generator" provided current.

RECOMMENDATION:

At home and work, use a "surge" protector - always. A "UPS" is also recommended - prices are very low, around $150.00 for a home model. Prices for larger UPS's are $200-500.00. Preventing a single crash will pay for the UPS.