Under-$20 Mini UPS Keeps Wi-Fi Running Through 2-Hour Blackouts
Updated
Updated · MUO - MakeUseOf · Jul 9
Under-$20 Mini UPS Keeps Wi-Fi Running Through 2-Hour Blackouts
3 articles · Updated · MUO - MakeUseOf · Jul 9
Summary
$20 bought a 2,600mAh mini router UPS that kept the author's Wi-Fi live through a blackout lasting nearly two hours, avoiding the usual switch to mobile data.
The paperback-sized DC UPS sits between the wall socket and router, then flips to battery power instantly when mains power drops so the router does not reboot or lose connection.
Setup took only matching the router's power specs—voltage must match exactly, current must meet or exceed demand, and homes with separate ONT boxes may need a two-output unit.
Runtime depends on battery size and device draw: the author's unit powers a 20-30W networking setup for a few hours, while larger models such as a $68.99 20,000mAh unit last longer.
The device still cannot help if an ISP's own equipment loses power, and battery capacity will fade over time, but it offers a far cheaper backup than a full-sized UPS for low-voltage network gear.