PowerStream UPS Power Supplies

UPS Basics: Uninterruptible Power Supplies

An Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPSs) are electrical devices that provide backup power via a battery to a load when regular utility power has been lost. Depending on the UPS, some can provide protection against voltage spikes or power surges that help protect any equipment that is connected to the UPS. UPSs are not intended to be used for long periods of time. Typically, they are only used for short periods of time to provide critical backup power until an alternative power source can be provided. Online UPS systems use double conversion technology to provide the highest level of protection, isolating equipment from raw utility power.

Sealed lead acid batteries, known for their leak-proof nature, are commonly used in replacement UPS battery cartridges.

UPSs allow any electrical equipment connected to it to continue to run in the event of a power outage. For example, control cabinets in industrial applications can be kept running, making sure that the critical monitoring and controlling functions are not interrupted. UPSs allow enough time to save data on a computer that might be in jeopardy, due to a sudden power outage. UPSs can also act as a bridge while the backup generator is coming online and synchronizing with the electrical system. UPS systems are crucial for supplying power to connected devices, ensuring they remain operational during outages.

Power quality is essential for electrical power, emphasizing the importance of voltage, frequency, and waveform characteristics in the electrical power supply.

Standby or offline UPSs work with equipment that is typically energized by utility power. When the voltage being received by the UPS falls below a certain level, the UPS switches the connected equipment to the inverter connected on the UPS. At this point, the UPS will begin providing backup power from the battery.

Online UPSs works with equipment that is constantly drawing power from the battery through the inverter, so no switching is necessary. In this case, utility power is only being used to keep the battery charged. This allows for much more seamless power usage during an outage. Proper maintenance and selection of the appropriate UPS system are vital for ensuring reliable performance and protection of connected equipment.