Remote Work Blackout: Keeping Zoom Alive When the Grid Dies (UPS vs. Generator)
The "Flicker" Problem: Why Generators Fail Remote Workers
If you rely on a gas generator or a portable power station without "EPS" (Emergency Power Supply) mode, you will lose internet. The switchover time of 30ms is enough to reboot your modem. You need 0ms transfer time. This requires a dedicated Mini-UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) for your network gear.
Wattage Math: Modem + Router + ONT
Most fiber setups draw surprisingly little power. A standard Fiber ONT (Optical Network Terminal) + Eero Mesh Router draws approx 18-25 Watts. A massive 1000Wh battery is overkill. You need efficiency.
Test Results: 8-Hour Workday Simulation
| Device | Runtime (20W Load) | Transfer Time | Beep Disable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| EcoFlow River 2 ↗ | 10.5 Hours | 30ms (Might drop VPN) | App Control |
| CyberPower 1500VA UPS ↗ | 45 Minutes | 0ms (Instant) | Button Press |
| Generic Mini-UPS | 2.1 Hours | 0ms | No (Beeps loudly) |
The "Hybrid" Strategy
The pro move is to plug your Modem/Router into a small UPS (like the CyberPower) to handle the 0ms switchover, and then plug that UPS into a larger EcoFlow generator for long-term power. This gives you instant protection + infinite runtime.
How much power does your desk use?
Laptops + Monitors + Routers add up. Check your total wattage.
Calculate Office Load