Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE: UPS/Surge protection

This is topic UPS/Surge protection in forum Digital Cinema Forum at Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE.

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Posted by Phil Ranucci (Member # 3820) on 01-06-2009, 02:52 PM:

We are having server problems that seem to be power related. Does anyone have recomendations for UPS/surge protectors, preferably in the same chassis? It's currently on an APC unit, but I'm not sure it protects from power surges too. Thanks.

Posted by Tony Bandiera Jr (Member # 2365) on 01-06-2009, 05:29 PM:

Which APC Unit? Model #?

Virtually all UPS have built-in surge protection, (APC's all do), but the MODEL of your UPS may not be the best choice for the application.

Most inexpensive UPS (APC Back-UPS line, etc.) are "modified sine wave" output, and your server may not like it.

You need to make sure that whatever UPS you get is "True Sine wave" output. (APC Smart UPS and up)

Another thing: inexpensive UPS actually are "offline" (they have a relay that rapidly switches from the incoming AC power to the backup.)

An "online" UPS sends the incoming power thru the backup and conversion circuits and will perform much better. It is possible that your server can't handle the qucik but momentary loss of power during the transition from AC incoming to backup.

Go to APC's website to learn more.. LINKY-LINKY

If you're talking about your D-Cinema server, DON'T CHEAP OUT on your UPS...the refunds from one lost show are a lot more than the extra cost for a higher-grade UPS.

Also very important to make sure the UPS has plenty of capacity for the equipment. APC's site has a sizing and runtime guide.