Battery backup systems are devices set up where the primary power source becomes unavailable. This can happen due to a power cut, a circuit failure, or any other related reason. The solution is available in various forms, from single-cell backup batteries used in computers to more advanced versions installed in large facilities with separate battery rooms, generally provided for data centers. The UPS (uninterrupted power supply/source) is an alternative to the usual battery backups.

Uninterrupted power supply/source – What it means
The UPS system activates automatically when the main power source becomes defunct. This source is distinguished from the other backup systems in that it provides almost instant protection from any interruptions due to power failure. This is made possible with the help of the pre-stored power in its battery packs.

Apart from this convenience, UPSs also help shield appliances from any spikes of voltage that might occur. Usually employed to protect electrical and telecom equipment, these devices come in various sizes. Allowing electronic gadgets to function smoothly without any work loss, UPSs recover their energy stock as long as the utility power is functional. This helps maintain its energy stores, providing optimal support for a long time.

Its main role
The UPS has the main role of bridging the power gap between the failure and the backup. This warrants that the system be extra sensitive to any power variation, be it voltage fluctuations or full-out power cuts. This especially makes UPSs instrumental in areas with rampant power cuts or a generally unstable power supply.

This is why these devices are installed between the main power source and the appliances and equipment. This presence would make it the first point of contact when the electricity goes out and would also enable it to restore the power backup while the main line is on.

Where are UPSs used?

Now that you know what UPSs are, it will be helpful to know the areas where they are most commonly used. These include hospitals, burglar alarms, and power stations.

• Hospitals: While normally a power cut is nothing to worry about, in places like hospitals and intensive care units, the time it takes for a device to reboot following even a slight current fluctuation can become a matter of life and death.
• Burglar alarms: In areas where the UPSs are powering surveillance systems, including cameras, microphones, etc., the event of a power failure can be better dealt with. Even if the electricity is cut deliberately, these devices will keep the alarms active, thereby maintaining the safety walls.
• Power stations: Power failure in power stations would cause a general blackout and lead to significant and, at times, irreversible damage to the generators.

Top UPS choice for 2023
In 2023, there are mainly two brands ruling the UPS market. Some of their best-selling models are discussed here:

• APC: With models like the APC BGM1500 Gaming UPS, the APC UPS, the 1500 VA Sine Wave UPS, and the APC 2200 VA Smart-UPS with SmartConnect, UPSs from this brand will meet any criteria for powering your home safely through their holistic bundles. They also accommodate what you spend most of your time on, including gaming and other long-term activities on electronics.
• APC BGM1500 Gaming UPS: With a loading time of 4 minutes and 7 seconds for 900 watts, the main input voltage utilized by this UPS is 120 volts with the same output. The device uses six NEMA 5-15R and four NEMA 5-15R surge connection types.
• APC UPS, 1500VA Sine Wave UPS: Providing ultimate battery backup and shielding against power surges, this sine wave UPS is suited for small office devices, home appliances, and equipment used for networking and gaming. The added advantages of this model are the USB power slots, heightened runtime, and sinewave outputs for essential electronics.
• APC UPS 2200VA smart-UPS with SmartConnect: As the name suggests, the SmartConnect feature of this UPS provides innovation through monitored functioning with auto notifications, advanced support services, and firmware updates. This model comes with a three-year warranty for repairs and replacements for the body and two years for the battery alone. Also, this UPS device complies with the Energy Star Program requirements.
• CYBERPOWER: CyberPower provides a smart and safe solution to all your power needs through its intelligent UPS models that take special care to protect your home from the adverse effects of power fluctuations. Top choices among the CyberPower models include the CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD PFC Sinewave UPS and the CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD Intelligent LCD UPS System.
• CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD PFC Sinewave UPS: This Sinewave UPS comes with a total capacity of 1000 W or 1500 VA. Working through a Line Interactive Sine Wave, the device produces an output of 120 Vac  5% through a NEMA 5-15P, five-foot cord. This UPS uses SNMP, USB, and relay modes to communicate with connected devices. This device is ENERGY STAR certified and comes with a 3-year warranty.
• CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD Intelligent LCD UPS System: This model provides coaxial and Ethernet data line protection and a 3-year warranty. This intelligent LCD UPS system has a capacity of 1500 VA or 900 W through simulated sine waves. This mini-tower device protects computers, networking devices, home entertainment systems, and workstations against power surges. This is further complemented by the battery backup, which becomes significant, especially in areas with frequent power fluctuations.

Interesting facts about GPS technology

Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are a critical component when it comes to the use and application of many of the technologies, on a daily basis. Although the system was primarily designed to navigate using signals which accurately pinpoint your location, nowadays GPS and navigation systems are a common technological fixture.

However, there are many things you didn’t know about proprietary GPS and navigation systems although we are pretty much relying on the same for proper guidance. Here are a few interesting facts about this three-decade-old technology.

GPS and navigation technology: The concept which revolves around GPS technology may be similar, but the technology is not unique. This means GPS is not the only space-based radio navigation systems. It is one of the much popular and used systems globally. Russia has its own navigation system known as the GLONASS, along with Galileo in Europe and BeiDou in China. However, presently GPS and GLONASS are the only two satellite-based space radio systems that offer global coverage. The Galileo and BeiDou systems are yet to be made fully functional for global coverage.

Number of Satellites in orbit: Since GPS and navigation systems heavily rely on global satellites for positional and coverage accuracy of the signals, there are currently 32 satellites orbiting our planet. Global coverage is only possible when a total of 24 satellites work together in cohesion to provide uninterrupted signals and coverage, which was achieved back in the 90’s itself. However, today with the additional eight satellites, extra coverage is possible without any downtime when the GPS satellites are undergoing scheduled maintenance and repairs.

GPS visibility and line of sight concept: We may have 32 satellites orbiting at any given point of time, however, for GPS and navigation systems to function properly, we only need a minimum of four satellites to achieve positionally and signal accuracy. Four satellites in our line of sight will ensure uninterrupted coverage and accurate location mapping since there is constant communication between the signal sender and receiver. The signals travel at the speed of light which is constant and based on these factors it is easy to determine an accurate position for mapping.

Relativity plays a key role: Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity in simple terms states that time tends to move faster in places where there is the minimum effect of gravity, which is why the time onboard GPS and navigation satellites will be different when compared to our clocks back home. In fact, the difference of 38 microseconds faster per day will not sound so significant, but in reality, if this factor is not taken into account, the locations mapping could be off by more than a couple of miles thus affecting positional accuracy. This is also one of the main reasons why we need four orbiting satellites in line of sight to determine accuracy.

The government owns and operates GPS system: The technology might have been invented and developed by the military, to be used for advanced warfare and systems, but it was made freely available to the public after 2000. The technology is owned and operated by the government as a public domain for everyone to benefit from GPS and navigation systems which have become a major part of our routine.

Other uses of GPS:

• GPS is not just for determining your location, but also can be used to find out the exact time also with the help of onboard atomic clocks.
• GPS and navigation shoes are designed for people who are suffering from Alzheimer’s so that they can be tracked in case they lose their way.
• Not only automobiles, but ships and planes are also very dependent on this technology to navigate safely across continents.

Smart clothing is a type of wearable technology that is still being explored by various markets. Its fabric is implanted with interactive technology which is primarily used for tracking fitness goals. And even though it’s not mainstream as yet, it undoubtedly has a lot of potential to be the next decade’s most sought-after product. Therefore, thrilled with the possibilities of smart clothing, several manufacturers today have come up with their original products.

If you are wondering how this such kind of wearable technology can be beneficial for you, then read further.

• Ease – For some people, wearing a fitness tracker around the wrists or the arm can be extremely uncomfortable. This is because it can retain a lot of sweat around the area and cause skin irritation. On the other hand, smart clothing comes in various apparel forms which are highly inconspicuous and light. The best part about these is that brands have scaled several heights to make them incredibly comfy. So, you won’t even notice the difference between regular and smart clothing.
• Accurate numbers – Typically, statistics projected on most wearable technology products are correct. However, at times devices can process faulty information which always fuels the debate about how reliable they can be for fitness monitoring purposes. Smart clothing has an added advantage, i.e., the sensors within are much closer to the body so that they can offer precise data about exercise regimes and pulse rates.
• Additional data – Apart from the standard heart rate and motion tracking, currently some smart clothing brands are trying to take a comprehensive approach by monitoring the respiration rate as well. This can be extremely valuable as it gives you an insight into how you should manage your workout schedules as well as time-outs. For instance, if you do yoga exercises daily, smart clothing can be used to observe your breathing patterns, so that you can get better at executing complex postures.
• Healthcare applications – Not just for tracking your workout regimes, such wearable technology is also making its way in the healthcare sector. It can be used for keeping an eye on the infant’s breathing patterns and heart rates. Similarly, a few companies have come up with apparels that could help detect cardiovascular diseases.
• Convenience – Most smart clothing variants have to be washed by hand after detaching the monitoring devices from it. However, you can find products that have washable sensors, but at this point, this feature is only offered by a handful of brands. However, there is a good chance that brands in future will manufacture waterproof apparels to accommodate such consumer preferences.
• Connectivity – Like fitness wristbands, even smart clothing effortlessly connects to your smartphone. Not just for stats, some products can also utilize a social media space for active sharing. Some brands have also incorporated the feature of GPS tracking.

These products also termed as e-textiles, and are available in the form of shoes, bras, running shorts, suits, dresses, socks, trousers, jackets, etc. Besides fitness, smart clothing is increasingly becoming a subject of intrigue for ultra-modern fashion. So, in the coming years, they might be regular apparel to be seen on the store racks.

Hexoskin, Samsung NFC suit, Owlet Smart Sock 2, Nadi X yoga pants, SUPA Powered Sports Bra, Lumo Run, Levi’s x Google Jacquard Jacket, MyZone Sports Bra, Athos, Sensoria running socks 2.0, Neopenda smart baby hat, etc. are some of the popular products that you can consider buying. All of the wearable technology products mentioned vary according to the purpose and budget.

Apart from smart clothing, you can also explore different forms of wearable technology such as smart jewelry, intelligent wristbands and headbands, and smart watches, etc.

Portable audio and video players are entertainment devices for on-the-go. For people who want to listen to music while they work out, or watch movies or television series during their long commute to work, portable audio and video devices are one of the must-have devices. These devices have a large storage space for multimedia. Although smartphones have now incorporated all the features of such devices, the multimedia applications on these phones do drain the battery. In such cases, using a dedicated multimedia device such as a portable audio and video device can be handy. These devices are available in various sizes and with different features. Here are a few things to look for while buying a portable audio and video player:

• Size of the device: The size of the screen and the body determines the size of the portable audio and video device. If you are planning to watch a lot of videos (movies and series), you should buy a device with a larger screen size. A small screen will ruin the viewing experience as you would not be able to make out most of the details of the video that you are watching. If you want a portable audio and device mostly for listening to music while you work out or run, you will prefer a device that is lighter and smaller in size to be easily carried along. The price of your device will greatly depend on the size. A device with a larger size will cost more.
• Battery life of the device: The battery life of your portable audio and video device is one of the most important factors you should consider while buying one. A longer battery life will ensure that you can enjoy listening to your music or watching movies for a longer time without recharging the device. If you look at the specifications of most portable audio and video devices, you will notice that there are separate battery ratings for audio playback and video playback. Usually, audio playback runs longer than video playback on a single recharge. Pick your portable audio and video device based on how you plan to use it.
• Storage capacity: A majority of the portable media players come with the option of storing media files on external devices such as flash memory, hard drives, and removable flash cards. Some portable devices have their own internal memory storage. Along with this, most devices have expandable memory. More memory may mean an increase in price.
• Control functions: Control functions of portable media devices include playback, stop, pause, fast forward, and rewind of media files. Control functions also let you navigate through the media files of the device. Control functions also include volume control and advanced functions such as renaming files, sorting them, deleting them, etc. Buttons or touchscreen or both provide control functionality in portable audio and video devices. Portable players with touchscreen cost more than the one with buttons.
• The interface of the device: A portable audio and video portable device should have a user-friendly interface. The interface should be easy for the user to navigate through the various controls of the device. The interface includes various control functions and other visual cues on the device. Pick a device that has a simple interface that lets you find all the controls and navigate through the device quickly.
• Playback features of the device: This includes the various formats of the media files in your device. Make sure that your portable audio and video device supports at least the basic file formats that includes music files, video files, as well as photos. For a better experience, look for a player that supports advanced formats of media files as well.

Fitness trackers are undoubtedly one of the most popular types of wearable technology. They have massively evolved over the last few years and have incorporated intelligent features which make monitoring health a lot easier. However, the models vary according to every consumer’s needs. If you are on a lookout for such wearable technology but don’t know where to start from, then begin by shortlisting the kind of features you’d fancy. The following are some of the most sought-after features that can be found in current fitness tracker variants, which will help you pick the best.

• Pedometer – This is the most basic feature any fitness tracker possesses, i.e., it measures the number of steps taken throughout the day. These basically act as a reminder and can motivate you to increase your physical movement on a daily basis. Currently, many fitness tracker models also house useful data like the amount of distance covered and calories burnt.
• Calorie count – Based on the data from the pedometer, the calorie count feature can inform you about the estimated calories you have lost. You can also monitor your calorie intake through the day with the help of the smartphone app. You just have to key in what you’ve had for meals. The results can assist you in making some necessary alterations in your diet for weight management purposes.
• Sleep tracker – Wearable technology today wants to assess all the health factors comprehensively. So, many brands have introduced a sleep tracker which evaluates your quality of sleep. With the help of the sensors, it not only determines how much sleep time did you cover but also gives information about how many times you woke up through the night. If you notice any issues in your slumber period, then you can readjust your routine to rest better.
• Pulse monitor – Certain fitness tracker models also have sensors that record the heart rate. This can be an excellent feature for athletes or people with health problems. By realizing how hard your heart has to work, you can customize your exercise regime to perform better.
• Alarms – If you happen to be someone who despises the shrill sound of alarms, then you should get a fitness tracker that has a silent alarm feature. It’s simple, you just wear it while sleeping and it will gently buzz to wake you up.
• Goal dashboard – Almost all fitness trackers have their own smartphone apps. These apps contain vital statistics about your health. You can also set daily or weekly targets. On the completion of your fitness goals, you receive a congratulatory message which you can share with family and friends. If you wish, you can also pursue collective goals with fellow users.
• Smartphone notifications – You can easily miss some of the important calls through the day. A fitness tracker prevents this situation by projecting notifications if you get a call, email, or text. This can be especially useful while you are traveling or working.
• Battery life – A fitness tracker doesn’t need recharging on a daily basis. Some fitness trackers have a battery life up to five days. But this can differ according to every consumer’s usage patterns.
• Waterproof – There are wearable technology brands which specifically manufacture a waterproof design for swimmers. Moreover, if you are looking for something simpler, then you can also find water-resistant models in the market.

All the wearable technology brands may not offer the features mentioned above, so determine the best combination that works for you. For instance, if you need a something that keeps you active through the day, then a simple fitness tracker with a pedometer and smartphone connectivity will do. Moreover, if you are an athlete, then you will need an advanced model which will keep an overall track of your fitness regime.

Tag – Wearable Technology

If you are an avid reader, reading books on eBook readers can be an amazing experience. The biggest advantage of using an eBook is that all your favorite reads are stored in one place in one huge portable library. In addition, it comes with a plethora of features. So much that the device feels like an understatement.

If you are one of those eBook reader and accessories fan and still need some convincing, the following features of eBook might nudge you into buying one for yourself.

Let us first take a look at why eBook readers are better than paper books:

• Making notes
  Almost every eBook reader provides their users the feature of creating and archiving notes. Thus, you can type a note on your eBook rather than scribbling the notes separately on a paper or writing down at the corner of the margin.
• Look-up for words
  Okay, so you are a reader, it does not necessarily mean that you would be aware of every word that is out there in the dictionary. Writers and poets alike use some of the most esoteric words which you might not be aware of. There are some eBook readers and accessories that let you tap on a word which opens a small window below the word explaining its meaning.
• Social highlighting
  Social media is a way of life. With posting photos and videos online, It has become a huge platform to share your ideas and thoughts and connect with anyone located oceans away. Most eBooks let you highlight a quote from a page and lets you post on social media. In a similar way, you can also browse the internet and find the most highlighted quote.
• Searchability
  Similar to the word look up feature, you can also search for the topics and keywords in your eBook readers and accessories or even out of the web. This augments the user’s reading experience.

Now that we have established why eBook readers can be better than paper books, let us take a look at features that different the most competitive eBook readers and accessories manufacturers have to offer.

• Keep the track of your favorite characters
  Although an unusual feature, this feature allows you to find information of your characters, ideas and other notable items, so that you don’t get lost. A disadvantage here is that Android apps don’t have this feature.
• Wiki and search integration
  There are some features offered by eBook reader and accessories manufacturers that let you select a word and find more information about it on the internet.
• Search scan feature

Almost all the books have the feature which is available in Google Play. Search scan in Kindle as well as play books provide this feature to search modern eBooks. Although you may not find older books that are made out of scanned page. Google has recently added the ability to search for scanned pages.

• Language translation
  This feature is made available by almost all eBook readers and accessories manufacturers. The language translator by Google Play is a universal translator that works pretty well for you to get the gist of words and sentences that you might not be able to understand. All you need to do is select the word or a sentence and tap on the “action” icon from the bar. Choose the preferred language that you want the word or the text translated into.

These are just some of the highlighted features that are offered by most of the eBook and accessories manufacturers. Proprietary features make every other eBook reader even more unique. Visit the official website of the eBook reader manufacturer you wish to buy for more information.

Technological advances have changed the way we take pictures today, with camera brands manufacturing products across basic and advanced camera and photo kits. It doesn’t matter if you are just starting out or have been taking pictures all your life, you will still want to work with the best camera and photo essentials available in the market.

Here is a comprehensive guide to buying from the six different categories of camera’s available across major brands in the market:

Basic Camera and photo kits:

Also known as your consumer grade camera, the functioning of these cameras is pretty similar to that of any high-end smartphone that offers professional camera modes inbuilt. The only difference being, these cameras can only take pictures and shoot videos, unlike your smartphone which is capable of doing other stuff as well.

Basic modes of any consumer grade camera include limited control over the exposure settings and unlike DSLR professional grade cameras, you cannot use interchangeable lenses for the desired composition within the frame.
Basic camera and photo kits are also categorized according to their price and utility into the following:

Portable basic cameras: Simple and portable, with some that are even designed to fit in your back pocket. Some of the features include optical and digital zoom, depending on the brand and variants within. These portable cameras are suitable for taking small group shots and pictures from a close distance. Basic portable cameras are priced in the range of $100 to $450. Fujifilm, Panasonic, and Sony are some of the popular brands manufacturing portable cameras.

Zoom portable cameras: Zoom cameras also being portable are recommended when you want to take pictures from a distance, but still, maintain picture quality without pixelating the image. These cameras have optical zoom over digital zoom which means actual lenses elements are used to magnify the image. Ideal for people who love to go to sporting events and music concerts.

Waterproof camera and photo kits: Many popular brands have taken it a step ahead by introducing waterproof cameras which will enable you to take some candid shots underwater, up to a certain depth for adventure enthusiasts. There are cameras which can be used up to a depth of 50 feet also.

Advanced camera and photo kits: Advanced and professional grade cameras give you immense control over every element and settings available inbuilt, which is why professional grade cameras also give you the best photos. These can also be divided into a number of categories, depending on their make and model.

Advanced point and shoots: These are professional grade cameras with manual controls available for adjusting just about every aspect of your picture, but the only drawback is the camera does not support interchangeable lenses unlike your DSLR camera and photo kits. Even though these cameras fall under the category of professional grade, without interchangeable lenses suited for different purposes, it just doesn’t appeal to the more specific crowd of professional photographers.

Mirrorless cameras: Mirrorless cameras offer both manual control and interchangeable lenses, but with the exception of a mirror inbuilt that snaps up and down to click the image controlled by shutter speed. The only disadvantage of a mirrorless camera is that there is no viewfinder for you to as you will have to look through and focus on the picture manually. This is where DSLR’s come in handy since they offer the best of both worlds for almost the same price. Mirrorless camera’s cost anywhere from $500 to $1500.

DSLR professional grade camera and photo kits: Every professional photographer’s ultimate dream is to own his very own ultimate DSLR kit which will include the best camera body, an array of interchangeable lenses, additional accessories like Speedlights, UV filters, tripods and high-end camera bags to carry it all. DSLR’s cost anywhere from $500 to $3000.

Must have camera and photo accessories for professionals

Professional photography is a good way to make those few extra bucks, even if you are a part-time photographer. Metro cities and bustling urban areas will have a number of events to be covered by professional photographers. The advent of social media and image sharing websites has also increased the demand for camera and photo technicians and freelance photographers to cover live events, wedding receptions, sporting events and even house parties so that people have great images at the end of the day to share on social media.

Professional camera and photo technicians will want to work with the best equipment out there which is why it is imperative to understand the need for these camera essentials. Every photographer must have these accessories as part of their camera and photo kit.

Professional grade camera: These cameras are high end and can be very expensive, with some of the most popular models made by top brands like Canon, Nikon, Sony among many others. Nikon D850, Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, Nikon D810, Canon EOS 5DS, Nikon D750, Nikon D5, Canon EOS-1D X Mark II, Sony Alpha A99 II, Canon EOS 6D Mark II are among some of the best high makes and models when it comes to a professional grade camera and photo equipment.

Professional grade lenses: Professional photographers will have a need for the various type of lenses suited for different uses and purposes. Some of the popular ones include Sigma 18-35mm f1.8, Sigma 50mm f1.4, Sigma 150-600mm, f5-6.3, Zeiss Otus 85mm f1.4, Sigma 24-105mm f4, Sigma 18-200mm f3.5 macro among many others. Just having a professional grade camera will not work, if you don’t have the best lenses to use with the kit.

Tripod: You have bought a camera and a couple of lenses, great! However, it will be quite difficult to manage heavy professional grade cameras especially when you want to capture fast moving and long distance objects with precision, clarity, and focus. This is where a tripod comes handy because it provides all the stable support you will need even on rough terrains. The weight of the equipment also gets distributed evenly which is why investing in a good quality camera and photo tripod is recommended. Vanguard Alta Pro, Gitzo GK, Bonofoto B6, Joby GorillaPod, Vanguard VEO, Manfrotto, Globetrotter are just some of the best tripod accessory brands when it comes to premium quality camera and photo accessories.

External flash: No camera is complete without an external flash or Speedlite. This is especially the case for professional grade cameras since this particular accessory will allow photography in low and dim lighting conditions. Popular Speedlights for premium purchases include Canon Speedlite 600, Yongnuo YN wireless flash, Canon Speedlight 430EX, Nikon SB AF Speedlight, Sony high power flash among many others available online.

White balance cards: White balance is essential for professional grade cameras from time to time to achieve true color images since all colors are made out of mixing the three primaries red, green, and blue. The perfect composition of RGB is what professional photographers are looking for since the picture quality will depend on proper lighting, white balance, and composition at the end of the day.

Wireless memory cards: Eye-Fi brand has innovative solutions for professional camera and photo technicians with their WiFi enabled wireless memory card to upload photos directly from the camera to your computer automatically once it has been set up and synched.

Camera bag: Last but not the least, you will be needing a supreme quality camera bag to keep your DSLR, all the lenses, memory cards, UV filters, extra batteries, battery charger and everything you need for a professional shoot.