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UPS

An Uninterruptible Power Supply is a device which automatically provides power to equipment in the event that the mains power is unavailable.  It contains a rechargeable battery which supplies the power, and this is kept charged by the mains.  Sometimes known as a Battery Back-Up device.

Load

(also VA & Watts)

The equipment connected to the output of a UPS, or more commonly the power required by that equipment.  Usually expressed in Watts (W) or VA (Volt/Amps).  The UPS must be capable of providing sufficient power to support the load.  If not, an overload condition occurs, and the UPS may switch off.

(1KVA = 1000VA, 1KW = 1000W)

Input

The mains input to a UPS is usually via a standard mains lead.  However, once the rating of the UPS goes beyond 3000VA then the combination of the Load and the power required to charge the batteries exceeds the rating of a normal 13A socket.  All UPSs greater than 3000VA require a special spur circuit to be installed.

Online UPS

A UPS that supplies power to the load from batteries at all times, and uses the mains to keep the batteries charged.  The Smart-UPS RT range uses this technology.

Line-Interactive UPS

A UPS that passes the mains power through to the load, and switches to battery power if the mains fails.  Back-UPS and most Smart-UPS units use this technology.

Run-time

The length of time that a given load will run on battery power from a UPS.  Also known as autonomy.

AVR

Automatic Voltage Regulation - a system that adjusts the output voltage from  a UPS to try to keep it within limits.  This avoids having to run from batteries when the voltage fluctuates.

Sockets

The output sockets on UPS units are usually IEC320 C13 (often called computer connector or kettle lead sockets)  These can handle 10A.  A simple adaptor power bar can be used to connect UK plugs to a UPS - click here for details.

IEC320 C13

Some UPSs have IEC320 C19 outlets (16A max).  These are usually used to connect Power Distribution Units (PDUs).

IEC320 C19

A few low-end UPSs have standard UK 13A 3 pin sockets, allowing for simple connection of fixed plug equipment.

BS1363A

For more details about plug types - click here.

To review available power leads, click here.

PowerChute

(Automatic Shutdown and Management)

This is the software that runs on your computer equipment and communicates with the UPS.  It is used to perform an orderly shutdown of the computer to safeguard the equipment and data when the mains fails.  Most UPSs come with basic communications capability (either serial or USB) and PowerChute software.  It is possible to communicate with multiple computers using additional hardware, and there is also a network option that allows communications to take place across a local area network.  The links also allow the UPS to be managed from the computer.  Click here for more details.

Communications

(Serial, USB and Network)

UPSs can often communicate with computer equipment in order to allow the UPS to trigger a controlled automatic shutdown of the computer.  This is usually done when the mains has failed and the UPS battery power is close to being used up.  APC UPS units communicate using one of the following methods depending on what ports they have:

Serial Port - A special cable plugs into the UPS and the computer's serial (RS232) port.

USB Port - A USB cable connects to the USB port on a computer and to the UPS.

Network Port (10/100Base-T) - The UPS connects into a Local Area Network and communicates with the computer using TCP/IP.  This can be used for multiple computers.

In each case, PowerChute software on the computer communicates with the UPS, and this can also be used for UPS monitoring and configuration (management).  Details of the available cables can be found here.

SmartSlot

Batteries

UPS batteries are rechargeable, but like all battery technology, after a while they lose their ability to hold the charge and must be replaced.  Most UPSs give a warning when the battery needs replacing, and we can supply a replacement.  The batteries are usually user-replaceable.  Batteries usually last between 2 and 5 years.  You may find our battery replacement selector useful - here.

External Battery Packs

There is a wide range of products that can be used with a UPS system, either to add functionality or to fit the UPS into the environment concerned.  They include Rack mounting kits, Automatic Transfer Switches, Maintenance Bypass Panels, Communications Cable, Mains Cables, Power Distribution Units (Basic, Metered and Switched), External battery packs, Network and Management devices (including SmartSlot cards) and PowerChute Software.

Click here for details of available accessories.

Rack Mounting

Some UPSs can only be used in a stand-alone (or tower) format.  Others are designed to be installed into industry standard 19" racks and cabinets.  Usually designated as RM units, these come with rackmount hardware.  Some UPSs can be used in either way, and are convertible from tower to rackmount.  In some cases these have no rackmount hardware supplied and you must purchase additional rackmount kits.  In other cases the UPSs come with a basic kit designed to mount into a two-post open frame, but an optional kit is required to mount into the more usual four-post rack or cabinet.  When external battery packs are used these will also need rack mounting kits if they are not included as standard.  Details of rack mounting kits can be found here.

PDU

APC

This is the brand of UPS we sell.  We have chosen APC because of their reliability, range, and world-wide standing. 

The APC Zone

This is our APC specialist website.  We concentrate on APC UPS equipment so that we can provide the best levels of advice and support and the most competitive pricing.  Operated by 3complete.

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