IT Network Server UPS Solutions

A network UPS should be properly sized to provide backup power to all critical IT devices, ensuring the network stays operational during a power outage. This helps prevent single points of failure, such as when a network bridge or fibre broadband router is connected directly to the mains. The best server UPS will offer sufficient battery runtime, allowing for a controlled network shutdown using monitoring software or continuous operation with additional battery backup packs. For reliable protection, choose the best UPS battery backup for servers to safeguard your uninterruptible power supply for server rooms and other essential systems.

UPS for Servers

The network IT systems in a building consist of several components including the network server, bridges and routers, fibre broadband and storage devices, all of which should be protected by a server sized UPS systems. There are several factors to consider when selecting the most appropriate server battery backup system:

Form Factor: for rack mounted servers the ideal uninterruptible power supply can be a rackmount UPS that can sit inside the server cabinet. A rackmount UPS may also be suitable for a data cabinet. A UPS can also be placed onto a shelf or beside the rack or cabinet. For floor standing servers, then a tower or floor standing UPS format is the most appropriate type.
UPS kVA or kW Size: uninterruptible power supplies are sized in VA or Watts. Above 1000VA or 1000VA the referred to sizing is in kVA or kW. It is important to select a UPS size that allows headroom capacity for future load growth of around 20-25%.
Battery Runtime: the amount of time you need to close down the server network in an orderly manner or ride through a power outage. Extended battery runtime can be achieved by oversizing the UPS or through the installation of additional battery runtime packs. These can be floor standing or rackmount.
Network Monitoring: a UPS can be connected to an IP network using a plug-in SNMP (simple network management protocol) card or external SNMP device. A UPS system can also be monitored and controlled using UPS monitoring software and a USB/RS-232 port built-into the UPS. Other protocols include MODBUS and JBUS and access via HTTP or HTTPS. UPS monitoring allows for network broadcast messages when the UPS is on battery and unattended automatic shutdown of the sever network when the UPS approaches its low battery threshold.
Electrical Installation: where the UPS draws more than 16A it will require electrical installation by a qualified electrician or electrical contractor. The installation will be completed to the latest IEEE wiring regulations and an installation certificate provided. Smaller systems may use plug and play connections.
External Bypass Switch: an external UPS bypass switch or maintenance bypass allows the UPS to be isolated for removal and swap-out or maintenance without disruption to the load. This type of device is external to the UPS and separate to any maintenance bypass that may be built-into the UPS itself. An internal maintenance bypass simply makes the UPS safe for a service engineer to work on and does not allow for safe removal without load disruption.
UPS Maintenance: it is important to check a UPS installation at least once a year to ensure the UPS battery and other consumable items (fans and capacitors) are healthy. An annual preventative maintenance visit (PMV) is usually incorporated into a UPS maintenance contract that may also include 24/7 technical support and emergency callout.