Surprise! (Or maybe not?) wrong with the inverter or cells fixed everything.

Kern was right - there is nothing the charging circuit, and the new

What confused me is that there was no ’replace battery’ indi- cation from the UPS, even when it failed, plus a fair amount of runtime indicated with a full charge. So if you see such behavior on one of your UPS models, it makes sense to replace the bat- teries, even if there is no indication that the batteries have failed yet.

One of the things I learned during this process is that the UPS internal calibration will lose accuracy over the life of the battery. I always do a recalibrate when I install new cells, but rarely do it after that, as it’s time-consuming, and you really can’t use the system attached to the UPS while doing it. Since my systems are almost constantly in use, it’s a pain to schedule a recal, and I tend to put it off. This time it bit me. I’d suggest that folks do a recal at least once every six months. It will make your runtime estimates much more accurate, and also allows you to keep track of the state of your batteries.

For those who don’t know how to do this, here’s what you do. This proceedure should not be confused with the ’Recalibrate’ feature in the APC PowerchutePlus software. They do not do the same thing.

>From APC’s web site:

Perform a Runtime Calibration. This is a manual procedure and should not be confused with the runtime calibration performed through PowerChute plus. The batteries inside of the Smart- UPS are controlled by a microprocessor within the UPS. Some- times it is necessary to reset this microprocessor, especially after the installation of new batteries. Stop the PowerChute plus soft- ware from running and disconnect the serial cable. There must be at least a 30% load attached to the UPS during this proce- dure, but the process will cause the UPS to shut off and cut power to its outlets. Therefore, attach a non-critical load to the UPS and then force the UPS on battery by disconnecting it from utility power. Allow the unit to run on battery until it turns off completely. Make sure a 30% load is present! Plug the UPS back into the wall outlet and allow it to recharge (it will recharge more quickly turned off and with no load present). Once the unit has recharged, the “runtime remaining” calculation should be more accurate. Remember that if the unit is an older model, then the runtime will not improve significantly.

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APC UPS control system manual
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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.
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