Need UPS for my new system

[chinese]

Hey guys, I need help choosing an APC - UPS for my new comp. Specs are as follows:
A64 3400+
X800XT PE
74GB Raptor
2 optical drives
Mitsu 930SB 19" Monitor

I have no idea how many VAs I need or what the hell VA stands for, I'm assuming thats the most important spec for a UPS.

 

[Ockie0107]

How long do you want it to keep your system live?

 

[nomar]

Well APC is the right choice.

They have a page that helps you figure out your needs: http://www.apc.com/template/size/apc/

The monitor is really the tough one. The ES 725 should be fine - but you'll only have a few minutes of battery time. I reviewed the 725 and wrote down some battery times with my 19" monitor attached. Check it out:
http://reviews.designtechnica.com/review1291.html The test results are on page 4 of the review.

 

[tdg]

I have a APC Smart UPS 1400 VA that runs my 2800+, R9800Pro, 2x512MB, yadda yadda with a 17" monitor, and it can last about 30 minutes during a outage. VA = volt amps, which is the apparent power that the UPS will see. You gotta figure out how long you want to go on battery to decide how many VA's you'll need.

 

[chinese]

well the power in my house is pretty stable except my room has so many electronics that if I plug in the vaccuum cleaner the tv will flicker and the lights will dim. In the event that I do lose power, 2-3 minutes is more than enough for me to shut down my comp.

 

[RedTalon19]

for 2-3 minuets you could easily go for something as small as 500 VA. i remember when i looked into a UPS a while ago i figured at the bare minimum i would need 1000VA b/c i wanted to be able to use the system, finish up some work or whatever for up to 15-20 minuets before shutting down. but you dont need that much.