Common UPS Configurations

Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems are an important part of any business’s IT infrastructure. They provide the necessary power backup to ensure that your system remains running even in the event of a power outage or surge. With so many different UPS configurations available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. At Uptronix, we want to provide you with more information on the most common UPS configurations and their benefits. By understanding these configurations and their features, you can make sure that you have the right setup for your business needs.

There are five common UPS battery backup system configurations designed to supply power to mission-critical UPS systems. To fully understand which configuration would work best for your business, it’s important to understand two major concepts: the number of nines and power redundancy.

The number of nines rule is a commonly used measurement for determining the level of uptime required by businesses. For example, you can configure your system’s uptime to 99%, 99.9%, or 99.99% with each nine increasing your system’s uptime. The higher the number of nines, the more reliable your power source will be, but it will also cost more money to configure your system. Generally speaking, businesses should strive for 99% availability or higher.

Power redundancy is a feature that guarantees that your system has multiple power sources. Businesses need to have redundant power sources to ensure that their systems can stay running even if one of the power sources fails. Redundancy also ensures that your system is protected from any sudden surges or drops in voltage. For example, your system can be set up in N+1, 2N, or 2(N+1) UPS configurations to increase your system’s power redundancy and avoid unnecessary outages.

A single module is the most basic configuration and is used for mission-critical UPS loads that do not require a high level of redundancy. This configuration includes one UPS module, battery string(s), and an external maintenance bypass switch. This method relies on the UPS system’s internal bypass switch to transfer the critical load to the bypass source (utility) during a system failure.

This method, also known as an N+1 configuration, consists of multiple UPS modules and battery strings connected in parallel that provide redundancy for mission-critical loads. The modules will operate together to supply a single, unified output power source to the critical load. If any module fails, the remaining modules will keep the load powered until maintenance can be performed. This also allows the backup modules to keep the system running if you need to perform maintenance services or need to replace one of the UPS battery backups.

The isolated redundant UPS configuration consists of two same-sized modules configured as a primary and secondary (reserve) module. The primary module’s bypass source is fed from the reserve module. In the event of a failure of the primary module, the critical load is transferred to the internal bypass which is connected to the reserve module. Each module is supported by separate (multiple) battery strings. This configuration allows the load to be transferred from the primary module to the secondary module for maintenance and ups capacitor replacement.

The distributed redundant method is a common configuration for large data centers. The critical load is distributed across multiple stand-alone Static Transfer Switches (STS) and Power Distribution Units (PDUs). The STS units have primary and alternate source inputs that are fed from separate UPS modules. A UPS failure will result in an automatic transfer of the critical load to the alternate source fed by a different UPS. With this configuration, each UPS module is supported by separate utility sources, minimizing a common point of failure. This configuration also allows the UPS modules to be isolated for preventive maintenance by performing a manual transfer of the STS.

Using multiple redundant systems is the most reliable configuration, but it’s also the most expensive design in the mission-critical field. This method is designed to reduce single points of failure and to allow for UPS battery backup modules to be removed from service for preventive maintenance, remedial service, battery replacement, or systems upgrades without exposing the critical load to bypass. One example is two separate parallel redundant UPS systems that are fed from separate utility sources and switchgears, then get backed up by separate engine generators. Redundant load distribution could be accomplished by adding multiple static transfer switches, multiple power distribution units, dual-corded servers, and related data center equipment.

Uptronix provides in-depth knowledge and experience to ensure your UPS system is configured according to the latest industry standards. Our team of experts can help design, install, maintain, and monitor a custom power configuration for your business – designed to meet all regulatory requirements while maximizing its operational efficiency and reliability. With Uptronix’s services, you can get the most out of your UPS battery. Contact us today for more information about our UPS configuration options, UPS Maintenance – and let Uptronix power your business.