Power supply with Power factor correction causing issues

[Anonymous user]

Hello everyone! I recently deployed an HP ProLiant ML150 that and installed an APC Smart-UPS SC 1500. When the devices flips to battery power, the Overload light flashes twice (repeatedly) and emits a loud beep/buzz sound. The SC has only the server and a 15" LCD display plugged into it; and Powerchute indicates that it has only 25% load.

After speaking with Support, they told me that servers that have Power Factor Corrected power supply's are not compatible with the SC 1500 despite my failed attempts to locate this piece of information in any of APC's documentation. Has anyone else heard/experienced this issue? Does the power factor corrected answer make sense to anyone?

Thanks in advance!
Sean

[Anonymous user]

Here's an interesting update -- I went to APC's sizing utility on their website (http://www.apc.com/sizing) and filled out their wizard/form using the server I installed as the example server; and they told me to purchase the SC 1500 - so now I am totally confused.

Thanks in advance for anyone's assistance with this issue.


Sean

[Anonymous user]

Yep. That's just the way it is sometimes. The only way around is to get a sinewave UPS.

Make sure it's not a battery related issue first. Disconnect everything, then plug in a 500W to 600W load, such as a halogen work light or a small heater based appliance with current rating of about 5A. The UPS should support the heater or light bulb when switched over to battery.

If you pass this, but it won't work with your computer, you have a power suply-UPS interaction.

Try an SU1000NET or SU1400NET in that case.

[Anonymous user]

Darn... I really was hoping that was not the case. Has anyone experienced this before?

Thanks,
Sean

[BillP · Accepted solution]

Have you tried another server of the same type, another server that you know has a PFC power supply, even another power supply in the server? If could, possibly, be the power supply not a PFC problem.

If all fails see if your friendly APC Rep will agree to swap it out for one that is compatible.

Regards
Alan G