An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is a critical tool that provides standby power and prevents damaging interruptions, surges, and electrical noise from impacting sensitive equipment. There are many different UPS types available, each one designed to fit application types, levels of protection and power environments. Knowing what types of UPS are available enables many businesses and individuals to choose their ideal UPS System for their specific requirements.
1. Offline UPS (Standby UPS)
Offline UPS systems are the most basic type of UPS. They can be set to only provide standby power during a loss of the main power supply. During normal operation, power flows directly from the AC source to the load. But when an outage occurs, the UPS power supply and UPS systems go into battery mode within milliseconds.
Best for: Personal computers, home offices or entry-level electronic equipment.
2. Line-Interactive UPS
A line-interactive UPS provides a greater level of protection than an offline UPS. It will correct small voltage variations (sags and surges) without switching to the battery. These systems include an automatic voltage regulator (AVR) that ensures consistent voltage is delivered.
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses, networking hardware, and servers needing moderate protection.
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3. Double-Conversion UPS (Online UPS)
The double-conversion UPS is intended for mission-critical equipment. It constantly converts incoming AC power into DC and reconverts to AC, completely isolating connected equipment from any power disturbance. This type of UPS provides the utmost protection available from any UPS type.
Best for: Data centres, healthcare, industrial systems, and critical IT environments.
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4. Delta Conversion UPS Systems
Delta UPS systems are a more energy-efficient version of the double-conversion UPS. They utilise delta conversion technology, which reduces power loss and increases performance. These systems are suitable for larger installations needing enhanced energy efficiency and scalability.
Best for: Large enterprise environments undergoing increasing power demands.
5. Ferroresonant UPS Systems
Ferroresonant UPS systems are a line-interactive type of machine that includes a functionality where a ferroresonant transformer can provide voltage regulation and backup power. They are typically larger and less efficient. However, they are a durable option and can filter out noise.
Best for: Industrial applications needing rugged power protection and legacy (old) UPS systems.
Selecting the Type of UPS
Once you are ready to commit to a UPS power supply, think about the following:
- Power load requirements
- Criticality of connected devices
- Voltage fluctuations in your area
- Space, budget, and runtime expectations
FAQs
1. How do I pick an uninterruptible power supply?
When looking at a UPS, you should consider the battery runtime, efficiency rating, scalable for the future, and more. If you are unsure about which is best for your application, contact a professional for UPS installation.
2. What type of UPS is better?
That would depend on how you are using it. If you require a simple backup UPS, an offline UPS could work. If you need moderate protection, a line-interactive UPS could be a good choice. If your application is highly critical, a double-conversion UPS would certainly be the best option.
3. What is the difference between an AC UPS and a DC UPS?
An AC UPS would back up unreachable alternating current power. On the other hand, a DC UPS would be backing up direct current, which is primarily used to back up batteries in backup systems.