Runtime lower than expected and firmware update question.

Anonymous user · ‎2021-06-28

I've got two questions/issues with my UPS setup. I'm running the below setup.

Model:	Smart-UPS X 1500
SKU:	SMX1500RM2U
Serial Number:	AS1031232264
Firmware Revision:	UPS 02.2 (ID11)

External Battery SKU:	SMX48RMBP2U

Item 1 is I'd like to get the firmware updated on it to get rid of the constant communication fault messages. I'm aware the normal firmware update method won't work on this model but I'm hoping there's still a way to get it done.

Item 2 is the runtime is lower than it should be.

Runtime Remaining:	55min 19sec

Output VA:	14.4 %
Output Watts:	15.6 %

APC's runtime chart indicates I should be over 3 hours runtime with this setup/load. I was told the batteries were replaced once but I don't know that for certain, so I realize that could be a factor. However, battery test passes and I have no battery replacement message. That runtime number would be close to correct if I didn't have the SMX48. Therefore I've got less than 1/3rd the runtime I should have with fresh batteries. Does it wait until the batteries are completely toast to fail tests and/or tell you to replace them? At 40% load, it was telling me I had ~7 minutes run time which is even further off. Calibration was run from the NMC when it was running a > 40% load.

If the batteries need to be replaced, they need to be replaced. But with the performance degraded this much, I would expect the UPS to complain.

BillP · ‎2021-06-28

Hello -

If you can provide the serial number from the battery module in the UPS we can determine how old it is. The UPS replace battery light is triggered based on the drop in voltage over the duration of the self test. With a small load you may find that even with substantial runtime reduction the UPS will still not have a "bad" battery. At that point it would be up to you as to what is an acceptable decrease in runtime before you replace the batteries. Batteries in these units generally last 3-6 years. Environment and number of deep discharges will have strong impact on the actual lifespan.

For the comm issue with your NMC you will need to contact your local support team for assistance. If the support engineer you speak to is unfamiliar with the issue have them refer to FAQ #FA156826. They will be able to walk you through the process.

Thanks!

Liam

See Answer In Context

BillP · ‎2021-06-28

Hello -

If you can provide the serial number from the battery module in the UPS we can determine how old it is. The UPS replace battery light is triggered based on the drop in voltage over the duration of the self test. With a small load you may find that even with substantial runtime reduction the UPS will still not have a "bad" battery. At that point it would be up to you as to what is an acceptable decrease in runtime before you replace the batteries. Batteries in these units generally last 3-6 years. Environment and number of deep discharges will have strong impact on the actual lifespan.

For the comm issue with your NMC you will need to contact your local support team for assistance. If the support engineer you speak to is unfamiliar with the issue have them refer to FAQ #FA156826. They will be able to walk you through the process.

Thanks!

Liam