configuring a su1400 with software

[BillP]

Hello,
We have several APC UPS's in the su1400 and su1500 series in our server room. We also have a generator. When we are running on generator power, some of the UPS's have real problems. They click back and forth from battery to AC power every 1/2 second or so. I was told that by adjusting the power quality sensitivity to low, this could be corrected.

I installed the APC software on my laptop, and using a serial cable I was able to configure the su1500's.
The older 1400's (SU1400BX120 and SU1400NET) need a serial cable. I have two APC serial cables at my disposal, but they aren't the ones that came with those UPS's (they have been lost). APC support has told me that either of my existing cables should work with those UPS's. The serial cables I have are models 940-0020c and 940-0024c.

Anyway, using PowerChute, I can only connect to the 1400's in "simple" mode, which doesn't allow any configuration.

What do I need to do to get into these units? It is still a serial cable issue?

Thanks!

[BillP · Accepted solution]

940-0020 is the simple signaling cable. 940-0024 is the smart signaling cable that you should use and it should work fine. (the letters at the end of the cable are just revision letters)

which software are you using? assuming it is powerchute business edition and the 940-0024 cable, i would let the software try to autodetect the com port being used by the UPS. if you arent able to do that, you should try to choose Smart UPS with smart signaling with that cable and it should work.

if that doesn't help, confirm to me what software you are using and i can give you step by step instructions.

alternatively, with the 940-0024 cable, you could try to establish a terminal session with the UPS to verify communication. if you are able to use hyperterminal or a similar program, connect to the UPS with the following settings: 2400 bps, 8 data bits, parity none, 1 stop bit, and no flow control. once connected, press Shift + Y and you should receive SM> as a response which indicates the UPS is communicating in smart signaling mode.

if none of this works, you can try "brain deading" the UPS to regain communication. to do this:

-turn off the attached load as well as the UPS itself.
-remove any communication cables attached (so the serial cable).
-unplug the UPS from AC power.
-hold down the off (o) button for about 3-5 seconds until you see the UPS LEDs flash and hear an audible click. if you dont hear this click after 10 seconds, you can let the UPS sit for 8-10 minutes and the same function will be achieved. the UPS will discharged its capacitors and communication bus will be reset inside.