Smart UPS X3000 "A power factor correction fault exists"

[BillP]

Note: Just updated the UPS Serial number.  I listed the wrong one at first.

another UPS problem over the weekend that I have questions about.

We had an UPS go down this weekend and shut its outputs off.

The UPS is showing an error of "A power factor correction fault exists [0x0161].

Its a SMX3000RMLV2UNC (SN: AS1532134742) with network card (AP9631)

Why would the UPS turn its outputs off and not switch to the batteries?

I have seen this asked in older discussions.  It seems to be something that may require the UPS to be replaced, I just don't understand if its caused by internal parts going bad or external power surges killing the UPS and then why doesn't it at least switch to batteries.

[BillP]

Hi Charles - 

A Power Factor Correction Fault would indicate a hardware fault on the output side of the UPS. If the UPS has a hardware fault it may not have the capacity to switch to battery as expected.

Do you have a Network Management Card in this UPS? If so, can you provide the logs? (From the Web interface go to "About", then "Support". From there you can generate and download the logs.)

It would also be helpful to know exactly what is connected to the UPS for load. Some of this might be easier to do by calling in to our tech support teams directly. You can find your local support at http://support.apcc.com

[BillP]

As mentioned above it does have a network card.

The logs are attached. IP addresses have been "x"ed out.

The UPS is still on network and powered up running on its batteries but disconnected from main power. So the data logs do not show much in them.

The load on the UPS is IT gear and a few VHF radio systems.

[BillP · Accepted solution]

Thanks for the logs. 

Do any of the attached loads have dual power inputs? If so, are they both connected to the UPS? Any other details you can provide about the load? (Makes/Models...)

Have you tried performing a "brain dead", and if so - did it clear the fault?

To perform a "Brain Dead" you would want to turn off the UPS and remove the connected load. Then unplug the UPS from input power and disconnect the internal battery. Wait a moment and plug the unit back in and turn it back on. If the fault clears and the UPS turns back on without issue, then it was likely an error and not a true hardware failure.

[BillP · Accepted solution]

Our UPS is connected to a single APC AC distribution unit (AP7902) that has all the equipment connected to it.

Looking at one of our other sites with the same equipment configuration, the UPS is running a load current of 2.2 Amps, Output VA 9.7% and output Watts of 9.3%.

We have two external batteries attached to each UPS.

Our technician will be returning to site in a day or two with a replacement UPS. This one will be brought back to the warehouse for troubleshooting and possible repair.

I can have him do a "brain dead" before he removes it from system to see if that clears the fault or not.