Uninterruptible Power Systems (UPS) are necessary tools for supplying power to your many devices if there is any power blackout. It guarantees that your computers, medical equipment, and other electronic tools can continue without issues.
There are many power levels and types in UPS systems that you need to be informed about before you buy one. This blog will guide you on the various types of UPS systems, focusing on Online UPS and Line Interactive UPS, as well as how to choose between inbuilt and external UPS batteries. At the end, you will be equipped with the knowledge to make the right decision for a UPS battery.
Understanding UPS Systems
A UPS system provides backup power when the main power source fails, offering enough time to save data and safely shut down equipment. There are two primary types of UPS systems: Online UPS and Line Interactive UPS.
Online UPS systems provide the highest level of power quality and reliability. They operate by continuously converting incoming AC power to DC to charge the UPS battery, then back to AC. This double conversion method ensures that the output power is completely isolated from any fluctuations in the input power, making it ideal for sensitive and critical equipment. The capacities, such as Online UPS 2kVA and 80kVA reflect the power needs they cater to, with higher kVA units supporting more or larger devices.
Line Interactive UPS, on the other hand, includes technology that allows it to correct minor power fluctuations (like voltage drops) without switching to a battery. This makes it more energy-efficient than an online UPS for environments where power fluctuations are less severe.
If you would like to understand their workings in detail, CLICK HERE.
Inbuilt vs. External UPS Batteries
The main topic of this post islet’s UPS batteries. UPS Systems has two types of batteries: inbuilt and external batteries.
When setting up something like Online UPS 6kVA, one critical decision is whether to opt for inbuilt or external batteries.
This decision may have a big effect on your backup power solution’s scalability, maintenance, and performance.
Below, we’ll expand on the characteristics of both inbuilt and external UPS batteries.
| Feature | Inbuilt UPS Batteries | External UPS Batteries |
|---|---|---|
Compactness and Installation | Compact design makes these units easier to integrate into small spaces, ideal for cramped offices or home environments where space is limited. | Larger and require more space; not integrated within the UPS, offering flexible placement. |
Cost-Effectiveness | Generally, they are less expensive initially as they come in a complete package without the need for additional components. Only these cannot keep your system running for a long time. | Higher initial investment is due to the need for additional components, but potentially lower long-term costs are due to easier upgrades and replacements. For instance, the Online UPS 2kVA price with an inbuilt and external battery will be pricier but more efficient. |
Maintenance and Replacement | Integrated nature means maintenance or replacements can be challenging; it often requires professional help or sending the unit back to the manufacturer. | Easier to maintain and replace; batteries are accessible and can be swapped or upgraded without professional assistance, reducing downtime and service costs. |
Suitability | Ideal for lower capacity needs where moderate power is required, and prolonged runtime is not critical. They’re suitable for powering small office devices, home networks, or personal computers and typically provide a 5-10 minute backup. | Best suited for environments where long backup power is essential or where there’s potential for future expansion of power requirements. They are ideal for businesses or critical operations needing long runtimes. |
Flexibility and Scalability | Limited scalability due to the fixed capacity within the unit. | High flexibility in choosing battery sizes and capacities to match specific power needs; scalable by adding more batteries as demand increases. |
Runtime | Typically offer a shorter runtime suited for less critical applications, only delivering 5-10 minutes of backup. | Designed to provide power for several hours, essential for operations that cannot afford interruptions. |
Both batteries play an important role in a UPS. Making the decision between them is going to set up how your future devices will work. As a safe bet, you could choose UPS with both Inbuilt and external batteries, which is the common infrastructure of UPS systems like Online UPS 3kVA.
Choosing the Right UPS System and Battery
Most UPS systems come with batteries included, whether inbuilt or as separate external units. However, understanding the specifics of these configurations and the requirements of your setup can greatly influence your choice.
Power Requirements
First, figure out how much power all your devices use together. Make sure the UPS you choose can handle a bit more than this total to avoid overloading it. For example, an Online UPS 2kVA can support up to 1400 watts, which is good for smaller setups, while an Online UPS 6kVA can handle about 4200 watts, which is suitable for larger offices. You will have to go for external batteries if you need your devices to run more than 5-10 minutes.
Equipment Sensitivity
If you’re using very sensitive equipment, like medical devices or high-end computers, choose an Online UPS. Systems like the Online UPS 6kVA are great because they protect against all types of power problems and keep your devices safe.
Budget
Think about how much you can spend. An Online UPS 2kVA price is more affordable and can be enough for small or medium setups. Remember, as you add features or go for bigger capacities, the price will go up. Inbuilt batteries might be more cost-effective initially, especially for smaller or medium-sized setups where extensive runtime isn’t a priority.
Runtime
Determine the time that you would need the UPS to be running if there is ever an outage or surge in the power. If you need a long runtime, you might need a UPS that can use extra batteries. This can prove to be very useful for businesses that can’t afford to go offline.
Since external batteries can be expanded with more units to extend the UPS’s operational period during outages, they are perfect for applications demanding lengthy runtimes.
Scalability
Check if the UPS can grow with your needs. Online UPS systems like the online UPS 6kVA let you add more batteries later, which is great if your power needs might increase because of new devices or expansion. External batteries would be great for this.
Maintenance
Lastly, think about maintenance. UPS systems with external batteries, such as an online UPS 3kVA, are usually easier to maintain and replace by yourself. Systems with inbuilt batteries might need you to send them back to the manufacturer for repairs, which can be a hassle.
Stay Ahead in the Energy Game with Meghjit Power Solutions
Understanding the difference between inbuilt and external batteries can be a great foundation for a great UPS setup. It will make sure that you lose no data and files due to power problems. Having a good understanding of what your needs are is vital for your decision in the UPS type like the Online Ups 6kVA with or without batteries.
Meghjit Power Solutions LLP is the best distributor for all your power needs. We are a channel partner of Vertiv, the biggest UPS brand in the world since 2018. Our Online UPS Systems incorporate all the latest technological advancements in their workings. They mostly come with both external and inbuilt batteries for your convenience. Get in touch today to enjoy these amazing solutions at the best prices with us.
