Choosing a UPS: RS LCD 550 Master Control VS. Smart UPS SC 420

[BillP]

Hi,

I have a new Netgear ReadyNAS Duo coming. Runs at <50W. Just want a UPS to:

- protect from surges and brownouts
- run long enough to shutdown the machine automatically

I like the display and master control of RS LCD 550 Master Control, but wonder if Smart UPS SC 420 is better device.

Apart from the sine wave output of Smart UPS when running battery (which I don't think matters to me), what are the other differences please?

Web site is not the greatest for comparing.

Thanks

PC

[Anonymous user]

Thanks KVAr, what is the value of smart signalling pls?
From what I can see it only works with APC's RS232 cable?
Is there info/status that doesn't come thru on UPS to PowerChute?

Thankyou

[BillP]

Hi,

I have a new Netgear ReadyNAS Duo coming. Runs at <50W. Just want a UPS to:

- protect from surges and brownouts
- run long enough to shutdown the machine automatically

I like the display and master control of RS LCD 550 Master Control, but wonder if Smart UPS SC 420 is better device.

Apart from the sine wave output of Smart UPS when running battery (which I don't think matters to me), what are the other differences please?

Web site is not the greatest for comparing.

Thanks

PC

[Anonymous user]

Smart signaling allows bi-directional communication between the UPS and the PC allowing PC to configure UPC over the serial port and UPC to provide information to PC such as estimated runtime, percentage loading, line voltage. Older BackUPS only allowed UPS to signal to PC when there is a power outage, battery is low plus maybe a thing or two.

It was something that was introduced over a decade ago.

I think newer BackUPS aimed towards power users give such a feedback through USB though even though the term Smartsignaling is not used. The LCD basically gives you information at the front panel that would otherwise have to be queried from the computer.

[Anonymous user · Accepted solution]

Great thanks. Looks like PowerChute sw does do that via USB, and as you say the LCD does it anyway. Seems RS LCD 550 Master Control is the way to go.