One Back-UPS XS, two computers

[Anonymous user]

I have two systems (and a monitor) connected to a Back-UPS XS 1300 LCD. It's a great unit - I get about 25 minutes of runtime with everything running.

However, I'm looking for a good way to have both of them automatically shut down. It looks like the only software that's compatible with these units is the PowerChute Personal edition, and apcupsd. Unfortunately, apcupsd doesn't work all that well. I can have both systems shut down gracefully, but the UPS gets stuck in battery mode and never powers off (even if the power comes back, and even if I turn it off and back on!). I have to actually power down the UPS and unplug it from the wall for a few minutes.

And PowerChute Personal edition is obviously designed for just one system.

Is there any other solution to this problem other than purchasing another UPS for the other system? Is there another piece of software that I can use for this solution? Is there a way to have PowerChute Personal edition execute a script (I can remotely shutdown the other system via a script if I need to)...

[TheNotoriousKMP_apc]

Unfortunately, due to the bare bones setup that differentiates a Back-UPS from a Smart-UPS, you cannot execute a script with PCPE. Scripts can only be executed from PCBE or PCNS.

[Anonymous user]

Hrm. It looks like I'll just need to pick up another UPS. It's a headless box, only drawing about 100W of power.

What is the lowest-end APC UPS where the software can actually tell it turn itself off after the system attached is gracefully shut down, and then power itself back on when power is restored?

Message was edited by: awyeah

[TheNotoriousKMP_apc]

BE350R

[Anonymous user]

Hm, I didn't think the ES series could do that. Those are pretty cheap and should give me a good amount of runtime on this box. Thanks!

[BillP · Accepted solution]

Keep in mind that the BE units will provide simple signalling shutdown via USB. Also, whether you are using Native Windows Shutdown, or Powerchute, take a look at the compatibility guide just to make sure this will work with your box.

http://www.apcc.com/tools/download/index.cfm