We have gathered some of the most popular FAQs so that you can easily solve your doubts. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us on the contact page.

The UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is a device that provides electrical power in case of a power failure, thanks to the batteries it incorporates.

It also regulates the electrical flow, controlling the voltage rises and falls (peaks) that occur in the electrical network, eliminating harmonics from the electrical grid.

These devices are commonly used to protect computers, telecommunication equipment and any type of electrical equipment where an unexpected power interruption or power surge could cause loss of information and even irreparable damage.

The AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulator) is a voltage regulator, i. e. a device that accepts a variable input voltage range but supplies a constant voltage at its output. They regulate the flow of electricity by controlling the voltage peaks and valleys that occur on the electrical network, thus protecting the equipment connected to the AVR from the surges and low voltage peaks that usually occur.

Unlike UPS, AVRs do not contain batteries that allow the devices to continue working in case of power failure.

here are three different types of UPS: Off-Line, Interactive and On-Line.

In an Off-Line UPS the devices are powered by the electric current. The UPS comes into operation when a power failure occurs, at which time it almost instantly provides the current from its own batteries.

Application

Low-disturbance areas and good quality network

Outline

The Interactive UPS is similar to the Off-Line but it incorporates a special microprocessor that controls the variations of the network in ±15%, regulating the output voltage (Buck/Boos effect), without discharging the batteries. Whenever there is a power failure, the batteries automatically come into operation.

Application

From PCs to servers with small networks, offices. . .

Outline

An On-Line UPS, also called double conversion, provides continuous electrical power from your batteries while they are being charged from the grid. In this way it offers total protection from all problems related to electrical current.

Application

Any critical and essential computer installation (data networks, servers, telecommunications, industry. . . )

Outline

Depending on the type of electrical power available and the type of load to be protected, it is advisable to use the following types of UPS:

  • Off-Line UPS: Areas with few electrical disturbances and good quality mains Domestic applications or small offices.
  • Interactive UPS: Areas that suffer voltage variations, unstable network, frequent storms. Small domestic networks or offices, offices, etc.
  • On-Line UPS: In areas with an unstable electrical system, with frequent voltage variations and outages. For industrial applications, protection of critical equipment.

The unit used to measure the capacity of a UPS is the Volt Ampere (VA), also called “apparent power”. However, we provide you with the capacity also in Watts, which is the “active power”, so that you have no difficulty in choosing the most suitable UPS for your needs.

This is an indicative table with the estimated consumption of the most frequent devices and systems:

Depending on the size and type of UPS, more or less load can be connected. In the technical data sheets the maximum capacity values are shown both in Watts (W) and Volt Amperes (VA). It is advisable that the load connected to the UPS does not exceed 70% of the maximum supported load. Normally manufacturers use Watts to measure the power consumption of their devices.

It is important to note that laser printers should never be connected to a UPS as the power peaks they emit when turning on or printing can damage the UPS.

The time that a UPS lasts supplying power to the connected devices in the absence of mains power is called back-up time. In the technical data sheets it is expressed in minutes and they are applicable to a load of approximately 50%.

In case of needing more autonomy time, and as long as the UPS charging system allows it, more batteries can be added.

By installing the software in our computer and connecting the PC to the UPS through the USB or RS-232 ports we can communicate the UPS with our computer. This way we can program the shutdown of the system and control all its parameters (battery capacity, input and output voltages and frequencies, etc). Not only can you control the UPS connected to your PC but also the entire network and even allows remote control via the Internet. The software is compatible with most of the existing OS.

In addition, some UPSs can be connected to an SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) module, a system that facilitates the exchange of management information between devices on an IP network and allows administrators to monitor the operation of a network and its UPSs.

Although a UPS does not require professional maintenance, it is necessary to follow some guidelines for its correct operation and to ensure that its useful life is as long as possible. See UPS Maintenance section.
Most UPSs can last more than 5 years in use but it is advisable to replace the batteries after about 3 years. Keep in mind that the life of the batteries decreases if they are not in operation, so if the UPS is stored without being used, it is advisable to charge and discharge the batteries periodically. In large equipment, the service life is increased and can reach 10 or even 20 years.

The warranty, depending on the models, is 1 or 2 years.

Protective strips, AVRs and Off-Line and Interactive UPSs and On-Line UPSs up to 3KVAs included, intended for end users, enjoy a 2-year warranty.

The On-Line UPS from 3 KVAs, aimed at the industrial sector, have a 1 year guarantee.

This warranty includes spare parts and repair, provided that the failure is not due to misuse of the UPS, inadequate maintenance or natural phenomena.

The warranty includes transport of the UPS to the LAPARA technical centre for repair and return to the customer whenever necessary and justified.