A key link in the power supply reliability chain is your uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system. When there is a power outage, UPS will provide support for your life or work until your backup generator is started. In some cases, you may rely solely on UPS to get through power outages.
Given this, you need to ensure that your UPS is capable of handling this task. Ensure that your data center premises are in good condition and ready to withstand power outages at the right time.
Currently, over 20 million APC single-phase UPS systems have been installed worldwide. Many of them are old models, and it is estimated that there are currently over one million Smart UPS systems that require battery replacement. Just like car batteries, UPS batteries do not last forever. We recommend replacing it every 3 to 4 years, depending on various conditions. One of them is temperature – if the temperature is too high, the battery will consume faster.
All APC UPS from Schneider Electric have a low battery warning indicator light, but the system is usually not clearly visible and may be located behind a desk, in a rack, or in a server room, with flashing lights mixed with many other lights The owners of these UPS systems often do not know that the batteries may need to be replaced.
Excluding users who manage UPS, such as APC Smart UPS. Many models have comprehensive alphanumeric LCD displays that provide real-time status updates and alerts when battery life is low.
These devices also have an intelligent slot where customers can install an APC network management card (AP9631CH) to securely monitor and control APC UPS through a web browser or any SNMP supported management system. You can remotely manage devices from a central location – or have our partners manage them for you. Then, you will receive alerts for issues such as low battery life, and be able to better control energy usage and environmental conditions. You will also be able to restart suspended devices and schedule the shutdown of connected devices or the entire UPS operating hours during prolonged power outages or non power outages.
It is also a good idea to regularly evaluate any changes in the IT environment since the installation of UPS. Your I load is likely to have increased, which means that a more powerful APC UPS, additional batteries, or devices may be needed to support the increased load and maintain the required operating time.
You may also find that certain devices have become more critical. For example, if you are using cloud based applications and resources, providing network devices connected to the cloud suddenly becomes more important for enterprise productivity. To ensure continuity, please choose an APC UPS that can provide you with sufficient operating time during prolonged power outages.
We hope this season is mild, but we cannot expect it to be free from extreme weather. Now is the time to thoroughly inspect your APC UPS and ensure that they can withstand anything nature may prepare.