Managing multiple Smart-UPS

[Anonymous user]

I have 3 Smart-UPS ( 2 x 1000VA and 1 x 1500VA) protecting 5 servers.

Currently the UPSs are connected to 3 of the servers by USB but I would like to manage all 5 servers properly. If I install a network management card in 1 UPS and the network shutdown software on all the servers, will they all be controllable from that NMC interface or do I need a card in each of the UPSs?

Thanks in advance,E

[EZ_Button_apc]

In that scenario, you would need a network management card in each UPS. The reason being that if you linked each software agent to one NMC, if just that one unit went to battery, you would have every server go down at low battery instead of only the ones attached to the single UPS.

Perhaps a more cost effective solution is to just get an interface expander card AP9607CB. Have 3 servers on 1 UPS and 1 server on each of the others. While this will still need a serial connection to each of the servers, you will get the graceful shutdown capabilities you're looking for.

That being said... The network management card per unit is much more convenient, but would cost a good bit more. You will also enjoy the functionality more.

[Anonymous user · Accepted solution]

I thought that might be the case...Having one NMC per UPS adds significantly to the cost of the UPS, so I think I'll look at the interface expander card.

Having said that, in a 1 NMC amongst several Smart-UPS situtation, if that NMC-enabled UPS went to battery it would be becuase we had no mains power so I would want the other servers to inititate shutdown as well.