UPS - Uninterruptible Power Supply
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UPS is short for Uninterruptible Power Supply, essentially a cabinet that is capable of supplying mains power (240 volts ac) in the event of a power disruption or blackout. Some like the entire Chloride range, offer filtering as well as power back up. A UPS will keep your computing or telephone system (for example) running for a period of time in the event of a sustained power disruption or blackout. This enables you to shut down your computer and prevent loss of, or corruption to data/hardware/software. Back up times generally start at 10 minutes and can be extended to many hours if required. There is also shutdown software available that talks to the operating system and will automatically & systematically shutdown your system if unattended at the time of such event. A good quality UPS will protect against unstable or "dirty power" referred to as EMI & RFI (Electro Magnetic Interference & Radio Frequency Interference) which can affect your computer. Your sensitive equipment will also be protected from sudden power fluctuations. There are basically three types of UPS technologies on the market at present with varying quality and features. These are broadly divided as follows: Stand-by Generally these are the least expensive, offer only fairly basic back-up power and should not be used for critical applications. Typically the slowest response time of all UPS' on the market, and not capable of regulating the incoming mains. Most have minimal or no filtering, but will protect against low voltages say under 210 volts. Many do not include any over voltage protection. IE If a 280 volt surge appears the UPS will not correct it. Some cheaper models do not even switch to battery with significant over voltages; one popular make will put out 300 volts if that appears on the input! But it is cheap! On Line On Line UPS are considered THE BEST on the market. This type of UPS, like the Chloride ACTIVE and DATAPOWER series, will actively filter out surges, sags, noise (harmonics), etc. The filter is constantly on line, therefore there is absolutely no delay in correcting any power disturbance and the UPS will constantly regulate the voltage to 230 *volts (+/- 2 volts). This type of UPS is also a true "double conversion", meaning that the incoming AC power is converted to DC (rectified) then converted back to AC (inverted) thus totally blocking all power nasties. This is the main reason why critical equipment like file servers are always protected by a True On Line UPS system. This type of UPS is the most expensive for good reason as they are significantly more complex to design and build. They do work exceptionally well, particularly in very bad power areas. There are varying features, qualities and price so be sure to compare feature for feature as some brands may seem a little cheaper (initially) but leave out some very important features, (like the standard by-pass switch in our units)! Line Interactive A recent innovation, these UPS' offer filtering with voltage regulation and is a cost effective solution between the two above. Compared to a Stand-By type UPS, a Line Interactive like the Chloride Desk Power or Cool Power series will give an increased level of protection against surges, sags etc. This type of UPS has voltage regulation and high quality filtering. Typical switching times for all our Chloride Line Interactive type UPS are typically some thousandths of a second. Where a compromise is required of cost versus quality this is considered a much better option than a Stand-By. When do I need a UPS? Where there are power disruptions of any kind a UPS is the best solution. Thunderstorms, weather, surrounding industry activity (such as welding or heavy machinery), freezers, air conditioners, lifts, compressors etc. can, and often do, provide serious noise of over 500 volts on the supply lines. Remote areas or the quality of power supply from your local authority or generators often create problems. Another reason for using a UPS is overall peace of mind, especially for file servers and lengthy back-ups which cannot be interrupted, a quality, reputable UPS will offer peace of mind as well as protection. Using a UPS is easy.... just set and forget. Chloride UPS have built in visual and audible warnings to let you know if out of parameter conditions exist, unit running on batteries, and also to let you know battery power levels. This allows you to shut down your system manually OR automatically through shutdown software usually supplied. Other options are available for all operating systems including all UNIX based platforms, HP, OS/2, (call for full list). For critical electronics control systems, web access or auto diallers are available to page maintenance staff or prompt an alarm at a separate location. Battery extension cabinets and generators are also available to allow extra back-up time. |
| Benefits of installing a UPS |
| Ensured efficiency from your computer equipment. Peace of mind against loss or corruption of data. Less down time and more output from staff, therefore improved productivity. Real cost savings on hardware, program support and on going costs. |
| How to Calculate UPS Power Requirements, Volts, Watts, Amps |
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