When selecting or specifying a UPS system, it's important to consider two key factors:
- Power Requirements:
- Determine the amount of power you need the UPS system to supply, which is typically specified in VA or Watts.
- This information can be found on equipment rating labels or datasheets and may be specified in Amps, Watts, or VA. If you have a mixture of these measurements, don't worry, as South West Power protection can assist in cross-referencing the figures you have.
- Conduct power monitoring of the existing system to obtain an accurate reading of the power being consumed.
- Consider future requirements and whether the power needed will significantly increase. Some UPS systems are modular and can be expanded as your business grows.
- It's challenging to predict future requirements accurately, so it's advisable to oversize the UPS you choose. This is because the UPS is expected to last for at least 5 years, and larger units may last up to 15 years.
- Note that when considering the UPS size, the cost of batteries, rather than the power rating of the UPS electronics, contributes to a significant price increase.
- Battery Back-up Time (Autonomy):
- UPS back-up times can range from approximately 5 minutes to several hours.
- Before deciding on the UPS backup time, determine your objectives during a long power outage:
- If the goal is to simply shut down servers and wait for power restoration, calculate the time required to shut down critical equipment.
- If a longer backup time is needed to shut down a large database or specific applications manually, determine the necessary duration.
- If it's essential to keep key personnel, telephone systems, or communications to remote sites operational, a longer backup time will be required.
- Depending on the UPS size and the need for long autonomy, installing an emergency generator may be more economical. The generator can run as long as it has fuel, allowing you to reduce the UPS battery backup time and offset the battery cost savings against the generator cost.
- Note that computer room air-conditioning units are typically not powered by the UPS. In the event of a mains power failure, an emergency generator can power the air-conditioning units and the UPS.
- Communications:
- Depending on the UPS location, remote communications may be necessary to ensure the user is fully informed about the UPS's operational status.
- All UPS systems provide audible and visual alarm signaling, but if the UPS is remote from the user, such as in a computer room or plant room, it's crucial to keep key personnel informed.
- Most UPS systems include an RS-232 port for local communications with a PC. Additional options for many systems include:
- SNMP Communications Card: Enables network communications with servers and users, along with text messaging and email notifications of UPS status changes.
- Remote Alarm Panels: Provide remote audible and visual alarms in a manned area.
- To facilitate UPS communications with building management systems (BMS) and other control devices, various adaptors are available, such as MODBUS/JBUS, RS-485, Profibus DP, etc.
Considering these factors will help you make an informed decision when selecting the appropriate UPS system for your specific requirements.
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