Preventing data loss from power interruptions: Which device should you deploy? To avoid corrupted files or unexpected shutdowns when the mains power drops momentarily, what hardware protection is most appropriate for a workstation or small server?

Introduction / Context:
Power anomalies such as sags and brief outages can abruptly shut down computers, risking file system corruption and data loss. Choosing the right protective device is essential for continuity and graceful shutdowns.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Requirement: ride through short power losses and allow orderly system shutdown.
• Environment: single workstation or small server.
• Available choices include surge suppression and battery-based solutions.

Concept / Approach:

A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) provides stored energy via batteries and an inverter, keeping equipment powered during short interruptions and signaling the OS to shut down cleanly during extended outages. Surge protectors only clamp spikes; they do not supply energy when voltage disappears.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

UPS logs show transfer events where loads continue without reboot; file systems remain consistent. Surge strips alone show no such capability and computers crash on power loss.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Surge protector: clamps transients but cannot supply power during outages.
• Multiple SIMMs: RAM quantity does not address power continuity.
• Data guard system: vague/nonstandard; not a power continuity device.
• None of the above: incorrect because a UPS directly addresses the requirement.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing surge suppression with backup power and undersizing UPS capacity. Always size for wattage and runtime, test shutdown integration, and replace batteries periodically.

Final Answer:

Battery back-up unit (UPS)