Power when you need it; the 9th simple rule for computing

On August 8, 2004, I posted '8 simple rules for computing'. After reading a nice email from Ann I feel it necessary to mention something I overlooked in that post. Go down to the local office supply or even "wallyworld" and purchase a battery backup. They come in all different flavors and the starting price seems to be $39.95 + local tax. The APC 350 is very popular.

Please remember to use the battery backup strip for only the computer and monitor. Don't plug in other peripherals especially printers. They draw too many amps and will negate the battery back up function. Also use the software along with the enclosed USB cable and set up an automatic shut down. This will save any open data and perform a normal shut down if the computer is unattended.

"The best things in life aren't things."
-Art Buchwald