Protect computer during power outages

[Corey_J]

So the power shuts on and off in my apartment at least once a week. It's only off for ~30sec at most before it turns back on. This happened last night and when my computer turned back on I heard one continuous beep and three short beeps - no VGA found, so I think it toasted my video card. I got three years out of it, but I'd like this not to be a problem in the future.

What is the best way to prevent my computer from being damaged? Surge protector? UPS? Something else??

Thanks!
Corey

 

[genghiskron]

rule of thumb: if it costs more than a surge protector, plug it into a surge protector.

 

[srynznfyra]

Get a UPS if the power goes off that frequently!

 

[Corey_J]

I've been looking at UPS's. Is there anything special I should look for in a UPS? I like this one (link below) mostly because it has good reviews and is in my price range.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16842101349&cm_re=ups_apc-_-42-101-349-_-Product

 

[westom]

I've been looking at UPS's. Is there anything special I should look for in a UPS? I like this one (link below) mostly because it has good reviews and is in my price range.

Most computers (even with 800 watt supplies) consume less than 200 watts and rarely approach 300 watts. Therefore that UPS is sufficient. But a UPS is made so cheaply as to only have a battery life expectancy of three years. In those three years, the battery quickly degrades. So your 200 watt system may need a 300 or 400 watt UPS so that is can supply sufficient power three years later.

The UPS is doing one task. To provide temporary and 'dirty' power during a blackout. That UPS battery may provide sufficient power three years later for most systems. Or may not if the system is slightly more power hungry.