The common acronym for this is UPS (also called Battery Backups). A UPS is a hardware device that allows your computer to run for a short period of time during a power outage, provided it has been setup correctly. UPSs house a small battery similar to one you can find in a motorcycle.

UPSs all work under the same idea that while you have power your battery is constantly charging so when the power goes out your computer can still run on its battery backup.  There are very large UPSs that have several batteries to handle

Typical UPS

larger loads or longer run times. There are 2 aspects to consider when selecting a UPS; How much equipment do I want to protect from a power outage and how long do I want to run on battery power, of course these variables can increase the cost of a UPS. Some UPS battery backups will warranty or insure any damage caused to your equipment if the UPS failed in protecting your equipment electronically or mechanically.

To help protect your UPS investment you should NEVER hook up Laser Printers, Under Desk Foot Heaters, Refrigerators, or Photocopy Machines.  These can damage your UPS and not provide the expected protection. Most UPSs come with a communication cable and software that can detect when the power has gone out so it can alert you via e-mail or SMS txt message.  The software can be programmed to gracefully shut down your computer when there is very little battery remaining unless however the power is restored back on before the shut down process begins. With a total solution implemented like this you are not only protecting your hardware investment you are also protecting your data while shortening any down time waiting for a repair to be completed.

Another thing to remember is UPS batteries do not last for ever, they usually have a life expectancy of 3-5 years so you may want to check the date you purchased your UPS and budget on replacing the batteries or the whole unit to ensure you are protected.