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UPSs can provide anywhere from a few minutes of backup power – enough to safely shut down workstations and servers or allow backup generators to kick in – up to several hours for certain equipment. Understanding how to choose a UPS that’s the best fit for your organization requires having a firm handle on how much power your IT and other critical systems draw and your tolerance for downtime for each application.
In this UPS buying guide, we’ll walk you through the UPS essentials and the buying criteria you need to consider to make an informed decision for your organization.
UPSs can detect and compensate for anomalies such as power sags and surges, which are temporary power fluctuations that can damage attached computers and other electronics.
Different UPS models are designed to protect devices, including computers and peripherals, servers, and networking equipment, as well as data centers.
Types of power disruptions UPSs protect against
UPSs protect against downtime caused by various kinds of power disruptions, including:
Buying the right UPS: Key considerations
The following are additional common features found in modern UPSs that you may want to consider.
Remote Monitoring and Management
UPSs with built-in network ports or support for network management cards (NMCs) can be monitored and managed remotely. This is especially important for UPSs installed in branch offices or edge locations with limited or no IT staff on site. In this case, a centralized IT or facilities group can monitor the status of all UPSs and be notified of issues such as batteries that need replacement. NMCs may also support environmental sensors, enabling the remote monitoring of conditions such as temperature and humidity.
Remote UPS Outlet Control
Some UPS models include outlets or outlet groups that can be managed remotely, including the ability to monitor energy usage, and cycle power or turn off these outlets or outlet groups. This can enable someone in a remote operation center to reboot a hung server or network switch, for example.
LCD Control Panel
From a local perspective, an LCD screen on the UPS can display useful information such as battery health and power conditions, and facilitate local management and control of the UPS.
User Replaceable Batteries
No battery lasts forever, and UPS batteries are no exception. But given that the main purpose of a UPS is to ensure uptime, UPS battery replacement must be a quick and easy process. Consider models that feature a removable panel that makes it easy for the user to replace the batteries, rather than having to call in a service technician.
Lithium-ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are becoming more common in UPSs and for a good reason. They can easily last twice as long as traditional lead-acid batteries yet weigh far less and take up less space. They also support faster charging and more charge/discharge cycles. In many cases, the lower total cost of ownership (TCO) of a UPS with lithium-ion batteries will make them well worth the additional up-front cost.
Extended Runtime
Some UPS models support external battery packs that can provide extended runtime beyond what a UPS’s internal battery offers, enabling users to get potentially hours of battery backup time for critical loads.