PowerChute v3 erroroneously reporting battery problem

[leerd_apc]

I bought a new BackUPS BX1500G to replace an older XS 1500.  Deleted old PowerChute v2, then installed v3.  BX1500G unit powered up with no issue.

However, self-test with PowerChute v3 software triggered alarms and said battery problem that needed to replace it.

Got new BX1500G.

Same problem.

Got another new BX1500G.

Same problem.

Finally decided that odds of having that many NEW bad batteries is virtually impossible.

Decided to uninstall PowerChute v3.  Reinstalled PowerChute v3.

Self-test passed the battery that it was failing previously.

APC- Maintenance - you have a bug with the PowerChute v3 software.

[BillP]

Before running a self test, how long was the UPS allowed to charge? PowerChute just reads data from the UPS and my first thought is that the self test may have been failing due to a UPS battery that was discharged from sitting on a shelf or warehouse for a few months. I typically would not trust any self test results until a UPS of this type was allowed to charge for at least 8 hours but preferably 24 to be safe, especially if you turn it on and experience any power flickers while it was charging.

I forgot to add - another way to confirm my theory would be to issue a self test from the front panel LCD of the UPS to rule out any type of PowerChute issue. And also, did the UPS report a replace battery indicator during what you observed?

[BillP]

I have the same problem.  Powerchute v3 said to replace the battery.  I purchased a new APC battery, installed it. Two days later, Powerchute said that I need a new battery.

[BillP · Accepted solution]

Hi,

Depending on the model UPS you can update the battery replacement date through PowerChute. Did you update the install date of the battery? If the option is available for your UPS, you will find the setting under the heading of Run Self-Test.

If the option is not available, you can run a manual runtime calibration to teach the UPS that is has a new battery. 

• Stop the PowerChute software from running and disconnect the USB cable.
• There must be at least a 30% load attached to the UPS during this procedure, and this load cannot fluctuate more than +/- 5%. THIS IS IMPORTANT
• Attach a non-critical load to the UPS and then force the UPS on battery by disconnecting it from utility power
• Allow the unit to run on battery until it turns off completely. The load attached to the UPS will drop.
• If the Load is not at least 30% or if the calibration is ended before the UPS drops the load, the calibration will not work.
• Plug the UPS back into the wall outlet and allow it to recharge (preferably turned off)

If after setting the battery replacement date or running the runtime calibration if the UPS still reports the battery needs replacement that would indicate an internal error. You can either ignore since the you the battery is good or replace the UPS.