> running computer hardware in a dirty power
> environment is sky-diving without a parachute. How many damaged
> disks/broken databases does it take to justify a UPS?

If you're at it don't forget to protect your telephone and network
line and everything that connects your comp to the nasty and lightning
prone outside world (I actually have heard of a case where the
computer hardware got damaged through a modem - maybe because I live
in the barbarian Hungary ;) )
John