Benefits and Advantages of an Uninterruptible Power Supply

Uninterruptible power supply systems (UPSs) are essential components in any data center or networking environment. They come in all shapes and sizes, from large-capacity solutions housed in cabinets to small freestanding units. Rackmount UPSs provide an easy-to-manage option for most data center and server room end users. Regardless of the size and form factor, UPSs offer the same basic benefits and advantages.

Benefits of a UPS

Backup Power

Of course, the primary benefit of a UPS is a source of backup power. If the primary power source fails or becomes unstable, the UPS automatically switches to battery power to support IT equipment. This enables IT equipment enough time to back up and shut down safely or continue running until backup generators start-up or power returns. 

Protection against Power Disturbances

Line-interactive and online UPSs protect against a range of power fluctuations and disturbances, including spikes, surges, and dips. When the UPS detects these problems, it switches automatically to battery power. More on the different types of UPS battery topologies here.

Line Conditioning

Some UPSs provide line conditioning capabilities. They are equipped with voltage regulators that automatically adjust high and low voltages so that IT equipment always receives safe, computer-grade power.

Advantages of a UPS

The benefits of a UPS translate into measurable advantages for data centers and the organizations that rely on them.

Business Continuity

Backup power helps ensure business continuity in the event of a primary power outage. The UPS provides enough battery life to keep IT equipment up and running during a brief outage or the switchover to a backup generator. 

Cost Savings

A data center outage can cost thousands of dollars per minute, and power outages are the No. 1 cause of downtime. UPSs provide a rapid ROI by delivering a consistent source of power to IT equipment. Some UPSs provide a feature called “peak shaving,” which provides temporary power during periods when the price of the grid power is highest, helping operators reduce overall energy costs.

Emergency Response

A UPS gives IT personnel time to respond to a power outage, whether that’s enabling the switchover to a backup generator or initiating the controlled shutdown of critical systems.

Protection of IT Equipment

UPSs with power protection and line conditioning capabilities protect IT equipment from the vagaries of the electric grid. This helps ensure that power problems don’t shorten the lifespan of the equipment and reduces the risk of data loss.

IT Efficiency

Data center personnel are most efficient when they can follow their operational protocols and methodologies. UPSs reduce the amount of time IT teams must spend dealing with downtime, equipment failure, and other emergency issues related to power problems.

Best Rackmount UPSs from Enconnex

To maximize these benefits and advantages, organizations should view a UPS as a strategic investment that safeguards IT operations. It’s important to choose the right UPS for each use case and invest in high-quality units that will deliver years of reliable service.

Enconnex has developed a line of rackmount UPSs that are manufactured to our exacting standards. Our online power topology is designed for mission-critical applications, while our line-interactive power topology is for standard applications. You can also choose from lithium-ion or lead-acid batteries in various power capacities (VRLA vs. Li-ion UPSs). All models offer pure sine wave output for maximum power reliability.

Our UPSs occupy just 2U of rack space and are compatible with four-post, two-post, tower, and wall-mounting configurations. Smart LCD displays enable high-performance monitoring. All units are TAA compliant and stocked in the U.S. This enables shorter lead times and predictable procurement. View our UPS buying guide to help find your perfect UPS, and contact our power specialists for more information and guidance.