Server graceful shutdown and power startup configuration guide

[Anonymous user]

Hi,

Is there a simple guide on configuring a smart ups (SUA1000RM2U) to use the serial port using
1. Native serial support on Windows 2003 or
2. Powerchute Business Edition basic agent

I only have a single UPS connected to our Windows 2003 r2 server so I guess I won;t be needing the other
two components of the PBEB software.
I need to be able to do a graceful shutdown when battery goes low (during outages) and
boot up the server when the power comes back.

I've read many posts and I'm just not too comfortable rushing it as we run ther Exchange server as well.

Thanks,
Glenn

[Anonymous user]

Hi,

Is there a simple guide on configuring a smart ups (SUA1000RM2U) to use the serial port using
1. Native serial support on Windows 2003 or
2. Powerchute Business Edition basic agent

I only have a single UPS connected to our Windows 2003 r2 server so I guess I won;t be needing the other
two components of the PBEB software.
I need to be able to do a graceful shutdown when battery goes low (during outages) and
boot up the server when the power comes back.

I've read many posts and I'm just not too comfortable rushing it as we run ther Exchange server as well.

Thanks,
Glenn

[BillP]

Glenn,

[Here is a link to configuring native serial support on 2003|http://nam-en.apc.com/cgi-bin/nam_en.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=2519]

Just incase, you can reference this if you decided to use USB: [click here|http://nam-en.apc.com/cgi-bin/nam_en.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=2497] (should be the same for 2003)

You are correct in speaking about the agent. Honestly, I couldnt find any instructions for that (since its just a step by step .exe). You just need to download or get the PCBE install file from the disc, click 'install basic version' and then you get to a screen with the agent, server and console listed. Each has their own install button. So, you just click on the one for the agent and it takes you through a wizard. You just need to make sure your serial (or usb) cable is attached and choose the COM port or there is the option to autodetect the UPS as well. The rest is just clicking next. It takes about 2-3 minutes and you do not need to reboot the server afterwards.

Once the install for the agent is complete, you can exit the set up and then go to the web interface at http://127.0.0.1:3052 or remotely http://:3052.

You can then monitor the agent that way and APCPBEAgent runs as a services in your registered services.

Hope this helps!

[BillP]

I personally think the APC Agent is extremely easy to work with. The help file is surprisingly helpful, contrary to most help files. The agent also only runs as a service so it isnt a huge program you have to install (since you are monitoring only one UPS). With PCBE agent, you can configure notification events (via email or broadcast), see an event and data log with voltages and events, and also use some SNMP with it I believe. You can turn off the audible alarms on the UPS, run a self test, or battery calibration. The model and serial number is also available as well. You can also tell it to run command files you create. It is so small, yet packed with features that native just does not offer. And of course, there is the graceful shutdown options that you can tweak. I may have missed a couple of minor features but I would definitely recommend the agent.

With native support, you dont get any advanced voltage readings or anything, nor any notification options. Only, graceful shutdown pretty much.

[Anonymous user · Accepted solution]

Thanks a lot for the info.


Glenn