UPS Recommendation, Home Office

[nowwhatnapster_apc]

I was hoping to get some feedback as to what UPS(s) would fit my needs the best.

I have a custom built server and a desktop which need UPS protection. I decided a few months ago I wanted to consolidate everything into a 12U rack. So I got one of these [XrackPro2|http://www.provantage.com/gizmac-accessories-xr-nre2~7GZMC005.htm] I now have my PC and Server in two 4U chassis which leaves 4U left open in the rack. I am hoping I can full fill my UPS needs with a 2U unit so that I have the other 2U open for future things like a gigabit switch, router, modem, firewall

Equipment to be protected: (average wattage)
Server (180~240)
Desktop PC (230~330)
Switch (5)
Router/Firewall (5)
Modem (5)
Rackmount Cabinet, The fans, (20)

Operating Systems:
Desktop PC (Windows 7 Pro 64-bit)
Server (ESXi 4.1)

I would ideally like to have automated shutdown for both PC's via the UPS during a blackout. I know PCPE works fine for the desktop PC, but the server is another story. I am not familiar with business versions of PC and what the compatible OS's are.

I get power outages often due to downed trees. I do not have the money for a backup generator (yet)

My current setup:
BX1500G
---Desktop PC
BX1000
---Server
BH500NET
---Switch, Router/Firewall, Modem

Current runtimes are about: 25, 20, 60 min respectively

I would love to keep run-times in excess of 30min for the server and the network equipment. I can deal with a 15 minute run-time for my desktop PC.

Obviously I want to get everything rack mounted but the part that is really killing me right now is no automated shutdown for my server. I'm not that attached to ESXi as a host OS, but it is free. If I need to purchase say Windows Server 2008, I am willing to do that if it means I get my automated shutdown.

Thanks in advance for your time.

edit
Did a little research and it looks like PCNS v3 supports ESXi 4.1. My best guess would be I need a Smart-UPS with a network management card of some sort.

So something like a SMT1500RM2U with a AP9630 should get the job done right? Roughly $630 + $240, $870

Is there a better or cheaper option?

Message was edited by: nowwhatnapster

Message was edited by: nowwhatnapster

[BillP · Accepted solution]

yup, you'll definitely need PCNS 3.0 with a network management capable UPS. the pair you listed will work fine. this will shutdown the ESXi host and then you can configure ESXi to shutdown the guests if you need to. http://nam-en.apc.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/10380

SMX1500RM2UNC will come with a network card and gives you extended runtime capability with intelligent battery packs if you need it, versus the SMT line. other features include a better power factor, rack tower convertible, lack of transformer in larger units, higher voltage models, and more switched outlet groups. so if you want that and want to include an AP9631 NMC, you can check out that SMX1500 unit. you could also get SMX1500RM2U and an AP9630 separately.

as long as if you add up all the wattage and the 1500 VA units give you what you want as far as runtime and number of outlets, it should be fine as far as i can tell.