Smart UPS features for better backup power

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The main benefits of an uninterruptible power supply in a data center are to supplement primary power source failure and protect sensitive hardware from damaging electrical surges. These systems come in a variety of types, but you should consider how the latest technology can make backup power management easier; vendors now offer more than just extra voltage.

Some uninterruptible power supply (UPS) options integrate smart capabilities, which is a potential game changer for data centers. These functions can provide with connected monitoring, centralized management and optimized power loads.

Even so, whether you make the switch to smart power supplies depends on your specific situation and reasoning, so you should weigh the benefits against cost, implementation time and return on investment to see if the upgrade to a smart UPS system is worth it for your organization.

A traditional UPS prevents downtime across your data center's power infrastructure, so you might wonder why you should consider a smart UPS. Compared to legacy and standard units, smart UPSes provide functions that simplify UPS management and deliver a lower mean time to recover.

A smart UPS that integrates with your network can provide real-time status updates, giving you better visibility into device health and performance. If a battery needs replacement, the system sends you a notification so you can swap it out and keep your power supply at maximum strength.

Smart UPSes also provide more precise charging control, as well as frequency and voltage regulation. This type of intelligent battery management not only extends battery life and performance, but can help save on total energy costs. You won't have to worry about overcharged batteries and your equipment should get a balanced level of power protection, along with evenly matched, conditioned and regulated current without any oversight.

These functions mean a smart UPS can potentially deliver higher availability, plus better reliability and performance, compared to traditional offerings.

When you select a UPS, you must consider a variety of factors, such as how to properly size a UPS unit, voltage requirements, battery type, backup power duration and maintenance requirements. Once smart features enter the picture, there are few more considerations in the equation:

A smart UPS can help with management and power load matching, but making the leap to this technology depends on your current infrastructure and backup power needs.

For instance, if you have a centralized battery bank to support your entire power infrastructure, it will take time and investment to transition the entire grid to a smart UPS. If you use individual units or UPS systems that can simultaneously support multiple machines, you can swap them out at your own speed and measure the value of switching the entire facility to smart UPSes.

Your team must also consider which costs can arise during the upgrade process and confirm that any new UPS systems you place in your data center are compatible with your infrastructure and you have the necessary software programs for reporting and maintenance.

Part of: UPS selection, pricing and maintenance

To choose the right UPS, be sure to figure out business needs, power supply size requirements and how long your backup systems must last during downtime.

Vendors now offer UPSes with functions that help regulate voltage and maintain battery health. Before you upgrade, evaluate costs and confirm infrastructure compatibility.

UPSes are crucial components to any backup power system. Use power ratings, infrastructure voltage requirements and the UPS type to guide the selection process.

Your data center UPS sizing needs are dependent on a variety of factors. Develop configurations and determine the estimated UPS capacity that will meet your current and future needs.

UPSes can provide backup power scalability and efficiency. Admins should consider modular setups for extra redundancy, mixed capacity modules and cost savings.