Need guidance on purchasing UPS or AVR devices?
Need guidance on purchasing UPS or AVR devices?
Hello. I recently purchased my PC set during the pandemic and am seeking assistance with an AVR problem. I’m not particularly technical when it comes to computer components, but here’s the detailed description of the PC set I bought:
🔥All Brand New!!!
Ryzen 3 QuadCore 💻Computer Set
📟CPU Specifications:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 3200g QuadCore 3.6ghz
- Graphics: Built-in Radeon Vega 8 2GB
- Motherboard: Gigabyte A320M
- Memory: HyperX Fury 8gb RAM DDR4
- Storage: 120gb Kingston SSD / 1TB Seagate
- Case: Keytech CPU Case
- Power Supply: 700watts
Also Included:
- Monitor: 22 inch BENQ LED Monitor (Used)
- Keyboard: LED type RGB color
- Mouse: LED type RGB color
Additionally, I received the following items for free:
- Speaker
- AVR - Secure Voltage Regulator
- Mouse Pad
- Software:
- Windows 10 Professional Activated
- Microsoft Office 2016
- Google Meet, Zoom, Skype, Messenger
- Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom
I noticed a loud noise from the AVR and observed white sparks at the power switch. I turned it off immediately and have not been able to boot up my PC since then. Should I invest in a UPS or have the AVR inspected?
P.S. There’s a label on the back of the PC case indicating 230v 5A—what does that mean?
AVR provides protection only against surges and voltage drops (brownouts), whereas a UPS also addresses electricity loss (blackouts). Therefore, a UPS is significantly superior, particularly when it includes an AVR feature built-in.
When selecting a UPS, consider these two aspects:
1. Output waveform (square wave, simulated sine wave, and true/pure sine wave)
2. Design type (stand-by, line-interactive, online)
Further details on these differences can be found at the following links:
- https://suvastika.com/why-choose-a-sinew...erter-ups/
- https://www.eetimes.com/document.asp?doc_id=1272971
Understanding waveform and design
For computers, a line-interactive UPS is generally sufficient because standard power supplies manage the 2ms to 5ms transition time effortlessly.
Regarding output waveforms, a true/pure sine wave UPS is optimal. Simulated sine wave models are more affordable but incompatible with PSUs that have Active PFC. Running a simulated sine wave UPS with an Active PFC PSU may lead to problems—here’s what happens, how it occurs, and why.
How to identify PSUs with Active PFC versus those without
It’s straightforward: any PSU certified at 80+ (such as 80+ Bronze or 80+ Gold) must feature Active PFC.
What is Active PFC?
For more information:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_fact...near_loads
Potential issues with simulated sine wave UPS using Active PFC PSU
Switching to battery power from a simulated sine wave UPS can trigger one of three outcomes:
1. The PC shows an error and shuts down instantly.
2. The PC powers off immediately.
3. The UPS switches to battery, causing the PC to turn off while still connected.
Why this occurs?
Simulated sine wave UPSes generate a zero output during phase transitions, creating a power “gap.” This interruption can affect Active PFC PSUs when they shift from AC to simulated sine wave output (battery mode).
What should you do next?
As mentioned, your PC may operate on a simulated sine wave UPS temporarily. Be ready for possible complications. If issues arise, consider replacing the simulated sine wave UPS with a true/pure sine wave model or opting for one from the start.
Power requirements
When choosing a UPS, factor in the power consumption of your PC and peripherals. Don’t forget speakers, Wi-Fi routers, or other devices you plan to connect—especially printers and scanners, which may draw excessive current. Always refer to your UPS manual for detailed specifications.
Setting a baseline wattage is wise, as it ensures your UPS can sustain performance longer. For example, with a 700W PSU, adding one monitor (typically 23W–52W) and a Wi-Fi router (around 12V at 3A or 36W) gives you a solid setup.
Recommended high-quality brands include CyberPower, TrippLite, and APC. These are among the top choices available.
Remember: the higher the power rating of your UPS, the extended runtime it can provide before the battery depletes. This is determined by the PSU’s maximum wattage capacity.
Ensure your PSU meets at least 1000VA/700W requirements for line-interactive models that output true/pure sine wave.
It's okay to check your AVR while searching for a UPS, but be cautious. The white spark and loud noise you described suggest something might be malfunctioning, though the presence of a fuse is reassuring. Proceed with care.
AVR has experienced a total breakdown and isn't suitable for its duties. It's beyond repair. Discard it.
It might look like you didn't fully consider the expense of a reliable, high-quality UPS. Because their main purpose is to maintain your PC's operation during power outages by providing stable electricity, they come with a significant price tag.
For instance, I recently spent €230 on a CyberPower CP1300EPFCLCD (1300VA/780W, true sine wave, line-interactive with built-in AVR) UPS, and I currently use two of them—one for the Skylake model and another for the Haswell model (full specifications with photos are available in my profile).
Given how valuable your PC is, replacing it isn't a simple task. Whether you prefer something affordable or reliable, investing in two UPS units would be the best approach.
Understood. Please note the correction.
I currently lack sufficient funds but I plan to save as much as possible to purchase the 1000VA/700W UPS. Appreciate your understanding!