Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) devices are vital in protecting hardware and providing emergency power when the main power source fails. Many UPS solutions also offer eco-mode which saves on energy.
What is an uninterruptible power supply?
Also known as a battery backup, an uninterruptible power supply is an electrical device which provides emergency power to electrical equipment when the main power is cut or interrupted. Where a UPS differs from an emergency power system or standby generator is that it provides almost instant protection.
How does a UPS differ from an inverter?
There are several differences between an uninterruptible power supply and an inverter, but basically the UPS offers continuous power while the inverter converts battery DC current to AC supply. Where a UPS is ideal for equipment such as computers – ensuring no lost data – inverters are better for household appliances where a break in interruption won’t impact the equipment.
What are the uninterruptible power supply typologies?
You are able to get different types of power supply protection, depending on the UPS typology. These include
- Standby – a basic UPS solution powered by a battery backup when the main power is interrupted.
- Line Interactive – this UPS solution has an autotransformer to regulate voltages without switching to battery.
- Double-conversion – this UPS solution converts power from AC to DC back to AC, offering consistent power.
What is eco-mode on a UPS?
When a UPS is operated in eco-mode, there is a reduction in power protection for improved electrical efficiency and energy saving. Eco-mode is comparable to using the ‘basic mode of operation’ in an uninterruptible power supply where the inverter circuits are standing by in case of a power failure.
Smart eco-mode on UPS
Certain UPS solutions will automatically switch between modes, depending on the power supply from the mains. This ensures no power interruptions but might impact the efficiency of the equipment to a small degree.
Advanced eco-mode on UPS
As with traditional eco-mode for uninterruptible power supply systems, the primary power in advanced eco-mode is the bypass path. However, in advanced eco-mode on a UPS, the inverter stays on, allowing a more seamless power supply when the mains fails. The downside is that the UPS efficiency is reduced because inverter circuit is on.
What are the benefits of eco-mode on a UPS?
- The efficiency of the bypass path increases when eco-mode is used – a pickup of UPS efficiency of between 2 and 5 percent.
- Saves on energy costs – about 3.3 percent.
What are the risks of eco-mode on a UPS?
- While eco-mode in uninterruptible power supplies does save energy, the amount saved can be fairly small.
- There is a reduction in electrical protection and reliability when compared with traditional UPS.
If you’re looking at a UPS solution that offers eco-mode, it’s worth consulting with suppliers on your particular UPS requirements to determine with the energy saving benefits will outweigh any risks involved.
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