A UPS battery or system is one of the biggest testaments of how far modern technology has evolved. UPS or uninterruptible power supplies can provide backup power when regular sources drop to non-sustaining levels. UPS systems can do this without causing harm to the connected device. A UPS battery or system can come in different sizes depending on the amount of power necessary to maintain the device or equipment it’s intended for.
UPS batteries typically come in three types of topographic anatomies. They either belong to the double-conversion, line-interactive, or standby topologies. Each type of UPS battery achieves results through different methods. They also differ in terms of how long and frequently they can be used though generally, all three types can meet the input voltage that is required for devices that will be connected into the system.
Double-Conversion UPS
Also known as an online UPS, double-conversion systems can provide consistent power regardless of the current state of incoming power supplies. A UPS battery or system of this nature can fully operate on direct current (DC) power without any buffers since there is generally no need to switch. Most double-conversion systems are used for high-end IT equipment, sophisticated servers, data centers and telecommunication applications. This is because of their ability to provide uninterrupted power in events such as voltage failures, frequency distortions, or blackouts.
Line-Interactive UPS
This type of UPS system consists of an autotransformer that can regulate fluctuations of power which diminishes the need to switch to a battery. It has the ability to adjust minor power inconsistencies which is why it’s often used for typical consumer electronics. This includes gaming systems, home electronics, and even mid-level servers. Just like double-conversion UPS, they can provide consistent power during voltage failures, frequency distortions, or blackouts.
Standby UPS
Also known as offline UPS, is the most straightforward type of system of all three types. The system utilizes UPS battery technology to provide power in events such as voltage failures, frequency distortions, or blackouts. In cases like these, the UPS system utilizes DC battery for power supply and is inverted to alternating current (AC) to keep the device or equipment running. They are commonly used in standard computers, consumer electronics, or security and POS systems.
What a UPS System Can and Cannot Do
Now that we’ve established that all three UPS topologies are designed as a backup power when supplies fail, it’s also important to note that they can keep a system more reliable with or without power fluctuations. A UPS battery or system is designed to be very sensitive to any type of power fluctuations so it can respond immediately without any detrimental effects to the device or equipment.
This is highly important especially in places where power supplies are often unstable like in hospital operations or field missions in desolate places. Though UPS systems do not always need to switch to its backup system, it is an essential part of maintaining levels at bay when inconsistencies happen. When installed in between the main power source and equipment, it provides bursts of power to fill in the gaps until levels return to normal and allows the system to recharge its built-in battery.
It’s important to note that a UPS system is not engineered to be the backup power supply itself. The UPS battery that connects to the system can only carry the load for a short period of time. Because of this, it’s highly necessary to keep a comprehensive backup system that can take charge of the process when the situation requires it.