Automatic UPS start-up after power recovery

[steinmetz]

Hi, 

Please, can you advise me which UPS has the option of automatically turning on after a shutdown caused by a completely discharged battery? I need power backup for a device where there is no operator present and I need the device to turn on itself again when the power is restored.I couldn't find this information on the website. Thank you very much. 

Petr

[Teken]

This information is not clearly made available because specific APC Series UPS behave differently.

Back-UPS Series: By default these systems require a healthy and functional battery to turn on. 

Meaning the system can not be turned on or resumed if the battery is disconnected, depleted, low voltage.

All Back-UPS will begin to recharge once AC Mains is restored. Only some Back-UPS will restart automatically once the internal RBC is sufficiently charged.

While others regardless of RBC charge level require the end user to press the power button to activate the system. 

In Enterprise systems depending upon model, series, firmware, and production year.

Any APC Smart-UPS Series that states (cold start / hot swap) capability will normally automatically restart once AC Mains is restored. 

There are a few exceptions such as what firmware is present!

As such some units will not behave correctly due to bad firmware where a low voltage RBC condition prevents the system to allow a cold start.

Ultimately you must purchase a system that states (Cold Start / Hot Swap) capability and validate the same in a live environment. 

Because it doesn’t matter what’s stated on paper vs what happens in a real world situation!

Questions Ask . . . 👍

[steinmetz]

Hi, Teken,

many thanks for your answer. I see that it is not easy. Please do you have information that the SMT1500IC (APC Smart-UPS, Line Interactive, 1500VA) is suitable for my purpose? I can't find in the product descriptions of any UPS that it has a Cold Start / Hot Swap option. That's why I'm asking about this one in particular.

Petr

[Teken]

Hi Petr,

Yes, that specific APC UPS model does support both cold start and hot swapping of the RBC.

You may also refer to this APC Resource Link: https://www.apc.com/ca/en/faqs/FA156611/

NOTE: You must insure the option to restart the UPS upon AC Mains restore is enabled on the system.

That is the default setting but validate to be sure. ☝️ Also, depending upon firmware installed the system may not behave correctly with a weak RBC present,

This typically only impacts the following situations: Self Test, Cold Start, Power Chute.

Questions Ask - If not and this answered your query please consider marking the replies that offered you the solution. 

So it may help the next person asking the same. 👍