Why Do You Need an Uninterruptible Power Supply
A loss of power can be devastating to companies in the 21st century. Organisations in almost all sectors are reliant on electricity to keep their technology operational. Computers, telephones, and many other pieces of equipment require continuous power to maintain productivity and efficiency.
Any unexpected disturbance in the electricity supply can lead to damaging disruptions in business operations, and the resulting downtime and data loss can be costly. An uninterruptible power supply can avoid such issues.
Uninterruptible Power Supply (or UPS) devices offer instant battery backup protection against power loss by providing critical emergency back-up power for a period of time. Many can also protect against additional electrical problems such as power surges and energy spikes.
You can use a UPS battery backup to protect your IT equipment, telecommunications system, and other electrical infrastructure. Regardless of whether power loss would be business-critical or a mere inconvenience, some kind of critical back-up power solution is always advisable.
Check out our Why You Need an Uninterruptible Power Supply blog for more insights and views from our UPS Sales Director.
The Different Types of UPS Devices
All uninterrupted power supply devises use stored energy to maintain power to the load when the mains supply fails. The power flows through a unit in different ways, depending on the type of UPS system.
There are three primary types of UPS, as follows.
- Online UPS
- Line-Interactive UPS
- Offline UPS
There are several factors to consider when choosing which UPS system is right for you. Power capacity, size, form factor and, of course, price should all be taken into account. Which type of UPS is most suitable for your needs is also a key factor so we always advise to call us to speak to an expert to get the right UPS.
Here’s a brief explanation of how each type of UPS system works.
Online UPS
Also known as double conversion UPS, an online UPS offers efficient protection against complete power loss and a range of other power problems. It provides a high level of security and is the best option for mission-critical equipment.
Input power from the AC (alternating current) mains is passed through a rectifier, which converts the AC source into DC (direct current). The batteries are typically connected to the DC bus created by the rectifier. They are charged directly via that DC bus or via a separate DC charging circuit.
The DC supply flows through an inverter section that maintains a constant output supply regardless of the mains input voltage, ensuring the load is always protected. The inverter tracks and synchronises its output waveform to that of the incoming supply, while the output voltage and frequency are maintained at a constant preset value.
Synchronising with the mains allows the UPS to seamlessly switch from inverter to mains supply in the event of a fault or overload, or for maintenance purposes. In the event of a mains outage, the batteries supply the DC bus and inverter directly so there is no break in output supply.
The conversion from AC to DC and back to AC is where the term double conversion is derived from. This type of UPS offers comprehensive protection from all mains deviations.
Line-Interactive UPS
In a line-interactive UPS system, the inverter is online at all times. This type of UPS is especially effective in situations where complete power failure is rare but fluctuations are common.
With the UPS inverter always online, the protected load benefits from a constant preset output voltage. When the input AC power from the mains supply is within tolerance, the UPS inverter charges the battery. In the event of power failure, the UPS switches to battery power from charging mode. A transfer switch opens to allow power from the battery to flow to the load through the inverter,
Line-interactive UPS systems also incorporate an automatic voltage regulator (AVR). When the incoming supply falls slightly outside preset input tolerances, the AVR utilises transformers to either boost or reduce the supply accordingly. This helps to prevent batteries from being discharged when the input source is fluctuating but is only just outside an acceptable voltage window.
There will also be additional filtering and there is no break in output supply in the event of a mains disturbance due to the inverter always being connected to the critical load.
Offline UPS
Offline UPS systems, also known as standby UPS, pass mains power directly to the load during normal operation. The UPS monitors the incoming supply and activates the inverter should the input fall outside preset voltage or frequency tolerance windows.
The inverter is supported by a battery system. When it transfers online to provide back-up power, there is a very short break in supply (typically 2-3 ms). This is short enough that almost all supported equipment continues to operate unaffected.
An offline UPS also incorporates a surge suppressor and in-line filter to condition the mains supply fed to the load. This does not adjust any variations in voltage and frequency.
We Work With The Leading UPS Manufacturers
Specialist Power Systems works exclusively with the best UPS manufacturers to provide reliable solutions for back-up and emergency power.
Each brand we work with has its own extensive range of UPS systems. We ensure that we are fully up to date with each one so that we are able to offer our customers the most suitable UPS products for their needs.
We are approved and accredited partners of the following manufacturers.
- Riello UPS - Riello UPS’s award-winning range of products includes solutions for businesses of all types and sizes.
- Socomec - Founded over 100 years ago, Socomec is a pioneer in power solutions.
- APC - A flagship brand from Schneider Electric, APC offers UPS systems to suit any need.
- Eaton - Eaton is committed to providing efficient and sustainable power management solutions.
- Vertiv - Known globally for its reliable product range, UPS systems from Vertiv come with up to a 5-year warranty.
We are proud to work with these leading manufacturers of uninterruptible power supplies and fully endorse their products with an industry leading parts and labour warranty on all our UPS devices.
Alternatives to an Uninterruptible Power Supply
Uninterruptible power supply systems are the optimal choice for standby power in most situations. If your business requires a continuous supply of power for mission-critical operations, a suitable UPS system is essential.
There are very few viable alternatives to UPS. Generators can be a suitable solution for back-up power in some circumstances, for example, while central battery systems can be used for emergency lighting and security systems.
We also supply other standby power products, including generators and central battery systems. If you’re unsure whether you need a UPS system or an alternative solution, talk to our experts and we can help you find the best option.
Other Products and Services from Specialist Power
Specialist Power offers complete solutions for back-up power. Supplying UPS products is just one part of what we do.
As mentioned above, we also supply a range of other standby power products. We offer several services, too, including the following.
- Site surveys
- UPS installation and testing
- Service plans and maintenance contracts for UPS and generators.
- Flexible UPS hire and generator hire.
- UPS battery replacement, testing, monitoring, and disposal.
- Relocation and removal of equipment
- UPS repairs
We provide full details on our entire range of services here, or you can contact us to find out more.