Technology
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I Choose the Best Portable Power Supply?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

A portable power supply is often an essential in a number of situations. Businesses often keep portable types of power supplies on hand in the event that the main power supply is interrupted. Individuals may also keep a portable power supply at home so certain appliances, such as refrigerators or freezers, will continue to have power in the event of a power failure. Even in activities like camping, a mobile power supply may be desirable for a number of reasons. Choosing the best portable power supply typically involves defining the reasons for the backup supply, the amount of power that is needed to drive those applications, and the cost connected with the acquisition and maintenance of the power supply device.

For businesses, settling on the best portable power supply often focuses on keeping essential equipment functioning when there is an interruption in the main power supply. For example, an office may utilize a backup generator that uses either gasoline or battery power to maintain the operation of a server and a select number of workstations during an outage. Hospitals and other medical care facilities may rely on generators to keep operating rooms functional or to maintain equipment that is necessary for the care of patients. Understanding the demands on the portable power supply will make it much easier to choose the right type of backup power source, as well as help determine the power supply output that the source must generate in order to be effective.

An office may utilize a backup generator that uses either gasoline or battery power to maintain the operation of a server and a select number of workstations during an outage.
An office may utilize a backup generator that uses either gasoline or battery power to maintain the operation of a server and a select number of workstations during an outage.

Ease of activation is also often important when it comes to choosing the right portable power supply. Some backup systems today are configured to automatically activate in the event that the main power source for the facility becomes inactive. With gasoline-powered generators, many models today require nothing more than a tank of fuel, the use of an ignition to start the engine of the device, and a power cable that is plugged directly into an outlet, allowing a flow of electrical current to move through the existing wiring. With any portable power supply that is manually operated, it is important to make sure it can be moved into position, connected and started by no more than one to two people in a matter of minutes.

Medical care facilities use generators to maintain equipment that's essential for patient care.
Medical care facilities use generators to maintain equipment that's essential for patient care.

Cost is also often a factor when it comes to securing the best portable power supply. Generally, options that supply greater amounts of power for longer periods of time will be more expensive. Along with the initial cost, it is also important to consider the cost of maintenance over time. Backup equipment that is cheaper on the front end may require an output of maintenance expenses that is much higher than equipment that cost a little more at the time of purchase. Make sure you know what the costs are over the long-term before settling on a specific portable power supply. Doing so will not only save you money, but also a lot of time and frustration down the road.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • An office may utilize a backup generator that uses either gasoline or battery power to maintain the operation of a server and a select number of workstations during an outage.
      By: Lisa F. Young
      An office may utilize a backup generator that uses either gasoline or battery power to maintain the operation of a server and a select number of workstations during an outage.
    • Medical care facilities use generators to maintain equipment that's essential for patient care.
      By: Tyler Olson
      Medical care facilities use generators to maintain equipment that's essential for patient care.