Installing multiple Agents on 1 computer to monitor two UPS devices

[Anonymous user]

I would like to monitor 2 APC UPSs model (SMX7500RM2U/SMX48RMBP2U) using the PowerChute software.

I have both UPS devices connected to one computer using USB connectors. The Windows computer is running the PowerChute Agent, Console and Server.

I discovered that I can only monitor one UPS, not both, on the same computer. Further reading mentioned that each UPS is monitored by a unique agent. I can only install one agent on a computer.

So, my question is, "Is there a way to connect both UPS devices to one computer running the PowerChute software"? 

I read through the Forums and documentation and got really confused.

Thanks in advance for your help and assistance.

Gary

[BillP]

Hi Gary,

Unfortunately not. The design is for either PowerChute Business Edition or Personal Edition that you have one instance of software and one USB (or serial) cable connected to a single UPS. So, you cannot monitor more than one UPS from one PC. We offer solutions for larger UPSs to monitor multiple PCs from one UPS over serial (using Interface Expander, gives a supported UPS two serial ports) or more easily by installing a UPS Network Management Card in your UPS.

But, the model numbers you provided are one of the UPS - SMX750RM2U and one is the battery pack - SMX48RMBP2U. You cannot monitor the battery pack separately as it is monitored through the UPS. Because of this, I don't know what your second model UPS is to make a proper recommendation.

If you can double check, we could make a recommendation. It is likely to be to install a UPS Network Management Card in the UPSs to be able to log in via IP to each UPS. You can then use PowerChute Network Shutdown in conjunction with that for graceful shutdown if you need that in addition to monitoring.

[Anonymous user]

Both UPSs are the same model numbers. Thanks for your reply and input.

- Gary

[BillP · Accepted solution]

Ohh, OK. I read it wrong but I see now that it could mean what you said.

So yes, there won't be a way to use a single PC/software instance to monitor both units at a time unfortunately (unless you go the Network Mgmt Card route and log into both UPSs from your web browser). Just the reverse is available - attach two separate PCs to one UPS for graceful shutdown.

[Zakimimula]

A solution that works for me is to have USB hub with individually switched ports on the PC. That way I power on and off the USB port attached to the UPS I wish to monitor with PowerShute PE.