The Heartbreak Of Lost Data
It's always a good idea to save files frequently and to keep a backup but it's especially important if you suspect the power may go off at any moment. To be safe, save your data every few seconds. If the power fails and you haven't saved your file, then you are going to lose the data.
Likewise, this is a good time to remember to back up your data. You never know when components might fail so be sure to have an extra copy of your important data files somewhere - preferably away from your premises.
Copy important data to a CD and store it away from your home or take it with you if you have to evacuate. Consider getting an external hard drive such as the Maxtor One Touch that you can use to frequently back up your computer. The device, which stats at under $200 for 120 gigabytes, plugs into a USB port.
There are a number of web sites, including @Backup.com where, for a fee, you can back up files via the Internet. This is not only easy but it saves you from having to buy extra hardware and — best of all — maintains your backup data in a secure place, safe from fire, earthquakes, dogs eating your disks and other disasters.
If the power does go off, it's a good idea to turn off or even unplug your computers and other electronic equipment. Though your machines will probably do OK when the power comes back on, there is a chance of an electrical surge that could damage your equipment. This goes for TVs, VCRs and any other electronic equipment. Again, probably everything will be OK even if it is on, but a bit of extra precaution is a smart idea.
If you don't already have one, get a surge protector for your PC and other electronic equipment. Surge protectors are rated in "joules" - the higher the number the better. Tripp Lite, one of the leading makers of surge protectors, says that "200 joules will give you basic protection, 400 joules provide good protection and anything with over 600 joules can be considered exceptional."
Another good investment is an uninterruptible power supply or "UPS." Low cost UPS devices, such as the $45 Back-UPS ES 350 from APC (www.apc.com) will keep a standard computer and monitor running for about 5 minutes. That's not enough time to finish your novel, but it is sufficient to save your file and shut down your computer. Make sure you plug your monitor as well as your PC into the UPS but, unless you think you need to print in an emergency, don't bother connecting the printer.
Finally, if you have a laptop computer, consider using it during times of imminent blackouts. By keeping the laptop plugged in, you're continually charging the battery so; if the power fails you can keep working until the battery dies - usually an hour or two.
A syndicated technology columnist for nearly two decades, Larry Magid serves as on air Technology Analyst for CBS Radio News. His technology reports can be heard several times a week on the CBS Radio Network. Magid is the author of several books including "The Little PC Book."
By Larry Magid