Backup Power
Computer users fall into one of two categories: those who have lost data or hardware
because of a power problem, and those who are going to. Having experienced powerrelated
computer problems more than once, I can tell you with certainty that being
prepared for these unwanted situations is an aspect of setting up your trading
workstation that you should not overlook.
| IBM did a study recently that showed a
typical computer is exposed to more than 120 power problems per month. The effects of
these problems range from the subtle-keyboard lockups and hardware degradation-to the
dramatic complete data loss or permanent hardware failure. Computers contain sensitive
electronic components that are easily affected by fluctuations in voltage. A momentary
power glitch of less than a second is all it takes to cause a loss of data. Should a power
problem strike while your computer is saving a file, you could lose previously written
files or your entire hard disk could be wiped out. Since day trading requires the daily
use of computers, monitors, and other hardware, running into power problems is an almost
inevitable occurrence. But unlike a casual computer user, a day trader has much more to
lose than just the data on his local machine. If a power problem strikes, your
computer could be rendered useless while you're in the middle of managing open positions.
If you are unable to restart it and get back online immediately, it could cost you
thousands of dollars or more in losses.The best way you can prepare for power problems is
to invest in an uninterruptible power supply, commonly referred to as a UPS |
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In the event of a voltage decrease or power
outage, this device detects the problem and instantly supplies your computer with the
electricity it needs to run normally. So even though the building you are in may not have
any power, your computer will run as if everything is normal. A UPS should not be confused
with a surge protector. While both can handle surges, only a UPS can provide reliable
backup power during brownouts or blackouts. The other difference between them is cost. You
can pick up a surge protector for less than $20, but a high quality UPS that can handle a
variety of power problems will set you back between $200 and $600. UPS units aren't cheap,
but considering how much you can lose without one, I'd say they are a wise investment. For
extra protection from lightning you can even place a high quality surge suppressor (High
Joule Rating) between the UPS and the electrical outlet thereby giving your expensive UPS
extra protection also.
Common Power Problems
1.Brownout - A decrease in voltage, due primarily to high demand for electricity during
peak hours. It can cause unexpected system crashes and keyboard lockups.
2.Blackout - A total loss of power, causing a loss of all data in system memory. It can
also destroy the file system on a hard disk.
3.Spike - A dramatic increase in voltage caused most often by a nearby lightning strike.
It can cause catastrophic damage to computer hardware.
4.Surge - A short term increase in voltage, typically lasting 1/120th of a second. Surges
are usually caused by switching off large devices like washers or dryers.
5.Noise - Interference caused by many factors such as lightning, radio transmitters, or
large industrial equipment. Noise can introduce errors into computer programs and data
files.
The length of time that your equipment can
stay supplied with power is directly related to the size of your UPS. Generally speaking,
you want to purchase a UPS that is large enough to keep things running smoothly for at
least 15 minutes. That should give you enough time to exit any risky positions and shut
your system down in a safe manner.
UPS units come in a variety of shapes and
sizes. The size that is right for you will depend primarily on the complexity of your
computer system. To save you some time, I've put together a table of three common computer
configurations used by traders and the UPS that works best for each (assuming 20 minutes
of uptime). I have factored in an overhead allowance of 30%, which means you can add a few
additional peripherals to the base systems I have shown below without having to move up to
a bigger UPS. Also we have included a printer in the following configurations and some
people elect not to include the printer in their UPS configurations. Your Broadband modem
& Router should be included although there is no guaranty that your broad band
provider will stay on line. It would depend how large the affected area is that lost power
and if it includes your
providers service center.
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