What is a UPS? Probably every professional in the field of computer technology knows, and not only a professional. But few people know how different a UPS for a server is from a similar device for a personal computer.
After all, the conditions that are presented to server types far exceed the requirements for computer types in terms of degree of requirements. This is due to the fact that the UPS for the server "holds on its shoulders", in addition to the main device, there are still many peripherals, which are located both nearby and remotely.
Starting the selection of the UPS is worth understanding the functions that will be assigned to it. Indeed, in addition to maintaining constant power, UPS for servers perform a number of other specific functions. So, for example, some models have the ability to remotely control via a local network, automatically test the device while providing automatic diagnostic checks of the batteries.
It should be remembered that the UPS for the server must give out very high power, because it supports the operability and fault tolerance of a very large system. As a rule, to ensure sufficient performance, they use the installation of devices in a rack, and they work in a stacked mode. This use of the UPS also allows for “hot repair”, that is, to find and fix problems without stopping the operation of the entire supply system. This is a very important property when working in networks that cannot be turned off even for a short period of time.
There are two main types of UPS for the server: online and offline. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. So, the online class (double conversion is applied) allows you to provide the highest degree of protection for all electrical appliances that are connected to it.
At the same time, an offline UPS is characterized by the need to constantly switch the power load from the mains to the generating one, which is powered by a battery. And since
Since the default switching time cannot be zero, various unwanted bursts are obtained during the operation of the equipment. This entails a temporary power outage throughout the network.
With double conversion, the indicated problem is absent. The generator load is permanently connected. By the way, UPS for a high power server can only be double-converted. As a rule, such devices are not used for a separate computer or server, but to maintain fault tolerance in the server room, building or office as a whole.
When making your choice, keep in mind that UPSs for a server with a capacity of more than ten kilowatts require connection directly to a three-phase network. Also pay attention to the capacity of the supplied batteries. The operating time of power supplies without electricity from the network directly depends on them. Therefore, you just need to know how much time you will have in order to eliminate failures in the power system. And the quality of the services provided by your network directly depends on this.