We have an aging Smart UPS RT 5000 XL with 5 external batteries. On the web interface, it says our Watts Output is 56% (I couldn’t find anyplace in the command line or web interface that gives actual numbers). So, then, is my average draw 1960 Watts? (3500 * .56).
Based on that number, is anyone familiar with APCs battery life estimation in their product page? I just want to be sure I’m getting a replacement unit that can handle the load, and give reasonable time to gracefully shut down everything.
I’m also a little confused on what “Duration” means in Shutdown options for Powerchute Network shutdown. Does that mean the UPS will wait 2 minutes before shutting down the designated VMs?
3 Spice ups
That 56% that you see usually fluctuates depending on the current load. If you have multiple servers with varying tasks, they can pull more power at busier times.
I would calculate your need based on everything that is included in the load. Add the power requirements for each item that is powered by the UPS and then calculate based on what run time you want to have. Have you considered a natural gas generator for backup power on the other side of the UPS?
Once you have your data, this is available to help.
mike-eaton
(Mike (Eaton))
4
Here’s a post from Limey that’s pretty helpful when it comes to selecting a UPS: http://community.spiceworks.com/topic/297377-how-to-size-your-next-ups
1 Spice up
Looks like your UPS is reporting a load of about 2kW at the moment you measured. It’s possible your load will be higher still at other times. Do you have access to load monitoring logs for peak power consumption level for a more thorough worst-case power usage level?
If you’ve been running from your APC 5kVA 3.5kW model without problems or overload messaging, it’s likely safe to assume your load is within 3500W on a worst-case basis. If you’re shopping for a new UPS at the 5-6kVA power level, consider these Tripp Lite options.
- SU5000RT4UHV > 208/240V input & output, L6-30P input plug, 5kVA 4kW, expandable runtime
- SU5000RT4UTF > 208V input & 208/120V output, L6-30P input plug, 5kVA 4kW, expandable runtime
- SU6000RT4UHV > 208/240V input & output, L6-30P input plug, 6kVA 5.4kW, expandable runtime and detachable PDU with maintenance bypass switch
- SU6000RT4UTF > 208/240V input & 208/120V (or 240/120V) output; L6-30P input plug, 6kVA 5.4kW expandable runtime and detachable PDU with maintenance bypass switch
The 6kVA models with the bypass switch support whole-UPS hot-swap replacement without turning off connected equipment. You’ll likely need some battery packs too – you can expect 3-5 years out of most UPS batteries. Most critical network users replace batteries at the shorter end of that range.
We have an aging Smart UPS RT 5000 XL with 5 external batteries. On the web interface, it says our Watts Output is 56% (I couldn’t find anyplace in the command line or web interface that gives actual numbers). So, then, is my average draw 1960 Watts? (3500 * .56).
Yes, that’s going to be your typical load. Usually 60% of max power draw is a good rule of thumb.
I’m also a little confused on what “Duration” means in Shutdown options for Powerchute Network shutdown. Does that mean the UPS will wait 2 minutes before shutting down the designated VMs?
I can’t speak for APC but generally the shutdown options will be asking for how long it’s going to take (duration) for the slowest connected equipment to gracefully shutdown. That will tell the UPS NOT to shutdown before then, or give you a warning message if battery power is going to run out before then. You might want to ask APC how it works with their system though.
Thank you everyone for giving me some good advice. I’m doing my research now!
