One of the major tasks for an organisation is to assess the power requirements when it moves the assets in a data centre. The power needs of equipment comprise a big part of the colocation costs. There is a need for the electrical system of a data centre to incorporate a certain level of redundancy, which includes an uninterrupted power supply (UPS battery systems). They will keep the computing equipment operating even when the power goes out. Hence, looking for ups systems with automatic self-test and battery failure notifications should be a priority.
Take a look at some questions to consider when you have to choose such a system for your data centre.
Type of UPS to Choose
There are broadly three types of UPS, standby, on-line, and line-interactive. For office or home applications, you should select between standby and line- interactive systems. If you have a limited budget, consider going in for line interactive ups systems with network-grade power conditioning and LCD.
If you are constrained by space, then opt for standby systems. But if you want a UPS for a network application away from your home, then choose between on-line and line-interactive systems.
Power Needs of Your Equipment
The output capacity of a UPS solution is the maximum power it can provide to assist the connected machine. You measure it in volt-amperes or VA. Its capacity must be at least as much as the overall power needed by the connected machine. To predict the power requirements, add the wattage of the equipment you wish to link to this system. Generally, UPS solutions for office and home use are in the 300 to 1500 VA range. But those developed for data centres might be much larger. A wise move would be to leave some scope for fluctuating power needs and choose a UPS with a VA rating 20 per cent more than the estimated power needs of the connected equipment.
Amount of Battery Backup Runtime
A UPS system’s runtime refers to an approximate measurement of the duration of time its battery can assist the connected equipment in case of a power outage. The runtime depends on the equipment’s wattage, which is connected to the outlets of the UPS system. In case of a greater wattage, there will be a shorter runtime. If you want extra runtime, you should select a UPS system that has a greater load capacity.
When a UPS solution is operating at 80 per cent of its highest capacity, it will give you more than a few minutes of runtime in case of a power outage.
The Number of Outlets You Require
To find the number of outlets you need, count how many devices you plan to plug into your system. However, don’t forget to keep in mind that AC adapters can cover more than a single outlet. Many UPS solutions have outlets with additional space. It enables them to fit in bulky and heavy AC adapters without obstructing nearby outlets.
If you are linking network equipment, every device can have more than a single internal power supply and power cord. Those systems that are developed to be mounted in the centre rack operate with a single or more than a single power distribution unit. Every power distribution unit gets plugged into a UPS outlet, and the IT equipment gets plugged into PDUs outlets. In such a case, the UPS solution will only need adequate outlets to plug in the various PDUs.
It is essential to recognise the main functionalities of these systems before choosing one for the data centre. Presently, there are various kinds of UPS in the market. Select the right one depends on your unique requirements.