How To Use This Manual

This is the manual for apcupsd, a daemon for communicating with UPSes (Uninterruptible Power Supplies) made by American Power Corporation (APC). If you have an APC-made UPS, whether sold under the APC name- plate or OEMed (The HP PowerTrust 2997A UPS has been tested as a “smartups” with cable Hewlett Packard part number 5061-2575 equivalent to a custom-smart cable), and you want you get it working with a computer running Linux, Unix, or Windows NT, you are reading the right document.

This manual is divided into parts which increase in technical depth as they go. If you have just bought a state-of-the-art smart UPS with a USB or Ethernet interface, and you are running a current version of Red Hat or SUSE Linux (8.0 or later), then apcupsd is very nearly plug-and-play and you will have to read only the Basic User’s Guide (see Basic User’s Guide).

If your operating system is older, or if you have an old-fashioned serial-line UPS, you’ll have to read about serial installation (see Installation on Serial-Line UPSes). If you need more details about adminis- tration for unusual situations (such as a master/slave or multi-UPS setup) you’ll need to read the section on advanced topics (see Advanced topics). Fi- nally, there is a Technical Reference (see Technical Reference) section which gives full details on things like configuration file directives and event-logging formats.

You should begin by reading the Quick Start (see Quick Start for Beginners) instructions.

Basic User’s Guide

Planning Your Installation

Quick Start for Beginners

apcupsd is a complex piece of software, but most of its complexities are meant for dealing with older hardware and operating systems. On current hardware and software getting it running should not be very complicated.

The following is a help guide to the steps needed to get apcupsd set up and running as painlessly as possible.

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APC UPS control system How To Use This Manual, Basic User’s Guide Planning Your Installation, Quick Start for Beginners

UPS control system specifications

APC UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) control systems are vital components for ensuring uninterrupted power supply and protecting critical equipment from power interruptions, surges, or fluctuations. Designed by Schneider Electric, APC UPS systems are renowned for their high quality and reliability. They utilize advanced technologies and features to suit diverse applications, from home offices to large industrial settings.

One of the main features of APC UPS systems is the ability to provide backup power during outages. This is achieved through a battery system that activates immediately when the mains power fails. This seamless transition minimizes downtime and ensures that electronic devices continue to operate, protecting data integrity and equipment lifespan.

Another significant characteristic of APC UPS systems is their intelligent management capabilities. Most models come with PowerChute software, which provides users with real-time monitoring of power conditions and the status of the UPS. This software allows for graceful shutdowns of connected devices during extended outages, thereby preventing data loss and damage to devices.

APC UPS systems also incorporate advanced technologies such as Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR). AVR technology ensures that the output voltage remains stable by correcting minor fluctuations without switching to battery mode. This not only prolongs the battery life but also provides a consistent power supply to the connected equipment.

Thermal management is another critical aspect of APC UPS control systems. The design often includes efficient cooling systems that prevent overheating, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of the unit. Some models feature EcoMode, which reduces energy consumption and lowers operational costs by working at high efficiency only when battery backup is not required.

APC UPS systems are designed with scalability in mind. Users can easily add more batteries or connect additional UPS units to accommodate growing power needs. Features such as hot-swappable batteries and modular design facilitate easy upgrades and servicing without interrupting power supply.

In terms of connectivity, APC UPS products often feature multiple options including USB, RS-232, and network management capabilities. This enables users to connect remote management tools and integrate the UPS with existing IT infrastructure.

In summary, APC UPS control systems deliver reliability, efficiency, and advanced technology features that cater to a wide array of power protection needs, making them a trusted choice for individuals and businesses alike.