Generator Switchover Protection

[BillP]

Hi:

In our small building, when we test the backup generator, one building device (entrance intercom) will fail and need to be reset. This is annoying, but I'd like to 

This is due either to the momentary power dropout (around one second) during switchover, or to spikes during generator connect/disconnect.

The device that fails gets its power from a 16v / 40Vac transformer, and has no battery backup onboard.

A simple surge protector should take care of the spikes, but I'd like to find a way to bridge the dropout period (approx 1 second).  I'd also like an extremely low maintenance device for this purpose.

Any thoughts?

Many thanks in advance. 

[BillP]

Is the intercom powered by an AC outlet, if so then a small UPS should help.

A BackupUPS has a change over time of 12-15ms, Smart-UPS 8-12ms and a Smart-UPS online has a 0ms switch over.

-Gavan

[BillP]

Hi Gavan:

Thanks for your reply.

The device is powered from a circuit breaker panel, via a 16v 40vac transformer.

[BillP]

If it's powered directly from a breaker panel and not from a plug then I'd advise you talk to an electrician who might be able to find some way to connect a UPS to the input side of the transformer, assuming the input of the transformer is mains voltage.

- Gavan 

[BillP · Accepted solution]

Hi Gavan:

Many thanks.

I am leaning towards having an electrician install a standalone surge protection device since this is inexpensive and low-to-no maintenance.