dlstewart's Full Review: APC BE750G (apc-be750g) UPS System
I depend on a UPS battery back-up system to protect my computer equipment. Power surges are normal in my area, so it's imperative that I own a reliable battery back-up system. Since a local store was running a sale on the APC BE750G UPS System, after some research, I bought it.
What is a UPS?
For those unfamiliar with the term, UPS stands for Uninterruptible Power Source. A UPS gives the user time to save work, close programs and properly shut down the computer. The back-up system provides continual power by automatically transferring from AC to battery backup when there is an interruption in power. Should a power outage or interruption occur, the UPS switches from AC to battery backup, and when power returns, switches from battery backup to AC. It's a seamless transfer that prevents loss of data and damage to machinery.
Depending upon your computer type and monitor size (and whether the monitor is a CRT or LCD), depends upon how long the battery back-up will run. This APC 750va (450 watts) model provides battery backup for between 15 to 70 minutes.
Monitor Size: 15" LCD iMac G4 70 min / Desktop PC 52 min / Power Mac G4 35 min / Tower PC 29 min
Monitor Size: 17" LCD Desktop PC 41 min / Power Mac G4 29 min / Tower PC 24 min
Monitor Size: 19" LCD Desktop PC 31 min / Power Mac G4 24 min / Tower PC 20 min
Monitor Size: 17" CRT Desktop PC 20 min / Power Mac G4 16 min / Tower PC 15 min
What comes in the box?
The box contains:
* One UPS Unit (Black in color) * CD with PowerChute shutdown software * USB Cable * User manual in English and Spanish
Installing the UPS Unit
The battery inside the UPS unit comes unconnected. On the bottom of the unit, slide open the battery compartment door. Connect the battery wire to the terminal. The compartment is a tight fit for the battery, but it is possible to wiggle the battery out a bit to attach the wire. It's a simple process. When done, slide the battery compartment door shut.
This unit has 10 power outlets that serve different functions.
Battery Back-up and Surge Protection Outlets These outlets are used to plug in the computer and monitor.
Master Controlled Outlets Where idle peripheral equipment (such as a printer or speakers) are plugged in. The Master Controlled Outlets sense when the devices are not working and automatically shut off the power. Do not connect equipment to these outlets if you want the equipment to continually run.
Surge Protection Outlets These outlets provide surge protection even if the UPS System is turned off.
Make sure the UPS unit is placed in a dry area that is out of direct sunlight and away from excessive heat.
Plug the power cable directly into a wall outlet. (Do not connect it to a surge protector.) Connect the USB cable between the UPS unit and the computer. If desired, there are also areas to connect telephone, modem, CATV Converter, DSS, DSL, Ethernet, and fax lines.
Installing the Software
Turn the UPS unit on. The UPS System will give a short beep, and a green indicator light will shine. Make sure the UPS unit has charged for 16 hours before installing the software.
Installing the software is simple. Insert the CD into the computer and follow the instructions.
My Experiences
This UPS System works well, but it does have a few quirks. I plugged the computer and monitor into the Battery Back-up and Surge Protection Outlets. I also plugged equipment into the Surge Protection Outlets. However, when I tried to use the Master Controlled Outlets, my computer was not happy. I am running a Gateway PC computer using the Windows 32-bit Vista operating system, and I am using a 19" View Sonic LCD monitor.
When the computer is idle for a certain amount of time, it powers down. To "restart" the computer, I have to hit a keyboard key and re-type my computer password (if your computer isn't password protected, you would not have to do this step). Once the computer is fully operational again, a notification box appears above the taskbar that informs me that the PowerChute shutdown software is not working correctly. When the computer is turned on for the first time, there are no software issues. I only have this problem when the computer goes into the power-save mode and is restarted.
What I absolutely love about this UPS System is that it is unobtrusive. Prior to owning an APC battery back-up, I used Belkin UPS Systems. Much as I liked the Belkin units, after awhile I grew heartily weary of all the loud alarms that kept going off during power surges and blackouts. This APC unit is quiet and does a great job of protecting my computer equipment.
Keep in mind that this APC UPS System takes a bit of real estate. It is not a compact unit. It measures 3.5" high x 13.5" wide x 7.1" deep, and it weighs about 10 1/2 pounds.
This UPS unit has low battery and overload alarms. It also has a push-button circuit breaker. If you need to replace the battery, the instructions that come with the unit state to go to the APC website (www.apc.com). Provide them with the model number and a credit card number to order a new battery.
RoHS Compliant
RoHS stands for "Restriction of Hazardous Substances". It is a directive that restricts the use of six different harmful materials in products. These hazardous materials include: lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, PBB and PBDE. This UPS unit is RoHS compliant.
Purchasing
I bought this UPS system from Staples. It normally sells for $109.99. I bought this on sale for $99.99. Plus I received an additional $10.00 off when I brought my old UPS unit in for recycling.
Summary
This APC BE750G UPS System is working well for me. While it does have its quirks, overall it has been a reliable piece of equipment. If you are looking to buy or replace a UPS system, check this one out to see if it's right for you.
I hope you found this review helpful.
Enjoy your day, Dawn http://dlstewart.com
Warranty
The box says there is a $75,000 Limited Connected Equipment Protection warranty. A 3-year warranty covers all parts and labor.
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