Thanks for the info, Ron, Peter and Rick.

Originally the UPS drove the computer and monitor, which I consider is
the ultimate configuration. Originally, in the event of a power failure
(alarm buzzed) I had 3 mins to cease what I was doing and manually close
down the computer (I never connected the cable to do this
automatically). As the years went by and computer power consumption went
up I connected the monitor to a power outlet and the UPS only drove the
computer. Not the ideal but it worked. Now not even this works.

I can get my hands on a 700VA/420W unit (Powerware 3110) at a reasonable
price. The unit has software support. I will run some tests to see what
equipment it will support during a power failure and then determine my
final configuration.

Orf

Ron wrote:

>Subject: ups
>
>Hi Orf
>A quick web search reveals that at least the better UPS units utilise
>software that you configure to provide an orderly shutdown of your system
>including USB support in the event of a power failure.
>Therefore you would not need to have your monitor plugged into the UPS unit
>as the monitor plays no part in running your  computer other than providing
>you with a GUI (Graphical user interface)
>To be sure,  set up the unit and test with Monitor plugged into a separate
>outlet by unplugging your UPS unit from the wall and observe what happens
>both ways. Monitor left on and Monitor also unplugged.
>Just make sure that the unit you buy has software support to provide an
>orderly shutdown and you should be alright with one with insufficient power
>to support  a monitor.
>Ron White
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Sat, 20 Mar 2004 12:05:51 +1100
>From:    Orf Bartrop <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: ups
>
>I have been using an UPS for many years to support my computer during a
>power failure. It has saved me many times from loss of data but alas no
>more. My computer systems has grown over the years and what with USB
>devices powered from the computer the power required now exceeds the VAC
>rating on the UPS. Yes, I did replace the battery not long ago but still
>not enough ergs.
>
>The UPS only supplies power to the computer. The power outlet on the
>computer is connected to a colour printer that is seldom turned on (I
>ran out of mains sockets to plug into). My monitor is connected directly
>to a mains outlet.
>
>I leave my computer on 24/7 because it hosts a video security system. It
>is a fairly modern machine with power management facilities and is
>running XP.
>
>So, I think it is about time I purchased a new UPS but am unsure of what
>to connect to it and hence, what size unit to get.. Obviously the
>computer is the main item. The remote security cameras will go down
>during a power failure so that is not a consideration. However,
>restoring the security system once power is restored is.
>
>As the main purpose of the UPS is to prevent loss of data when I am
>creating it manually, should I connect the monitor to the UPS? Any
>thoughts would be appreciated. I do not need to work through a blackout.
>
>Orf Bartrop
>
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>
>

               The NOSPIN Group Promotions is now offering
              Mandrake Linux or Red Hat Linux CD sets along
             with the OpenOffice CD...  at a great price!!!
             http://freepctech.com/goodies/promotions.shtml