Thank you for your interest in Sump Pumps Direct. Actually all the notification function is the same across all the units, with the exception of the new EN models (not currently offered by SPD) that only have email notifications, however the function is the same. On power outages, you will receive an AC Power Problem. If any other alerts happen after that, say a low battery, the unit will also call (AN units) and email. The call is an exact message of the issue, in addition, the email also spells out the exact issue. There will be no doubt from either call or email of the issue the NexPump is trying to relay. The main difference in the 'ANi' or 'ANiw' models, is the ability to connect remotely to see the status of what is happening and status emails. On a power outage, you can check the time remaining on battery from a browser if you are not home. Other than that, the 'AN' model is the same.
Regarding your home computer and any backup sump pump system that provides the features that the NexPump offers, you would need to have a UPS in place to keep your computer up and running during any power outages.
If you have additional questions, please let me know.