Powechute Personal Edition & USB cable?

[Anonymous user]

I just received my new BR700G and while waiting for the battery to charge, I downloaded the current version of the Powerchute PE software and I'm hoping that someone can tell me why it is necessary to hook up the USB cable that came with the UPS to use the software?

I probably won't install the software--never got around to installing the software that came with my old Belkin UPS--but I'd like to understand the purpose of the USB cable in case I change my mind and install the Powerchute software...

Thanks!

Terrie

[BillP]

the software monitors the UPS status (AC input voltage, battery runtime, reason for last power outage, etc) and provides it for the user. it also provides graceful shutdown (which can also be done with most UPSs natively). on supported models, it also allows you to keep track of the last battery replacement date and allows a user to change the sensitivity.

the software/USB cable is NOT required for the UPS to do its essential function of transferring to battery when there is a voltage issue or power outage. it is only for monitoring the UPS or providing graceful, unattended shutdown of the computer, which most people want.

hope that helps

[Anonymous user]

Thanks for the quick reply...

Sooo...basically, the USB cable provides the communications "port" (for lack of a better term) between the UPS and the software/computer system?

Thanks!

Terrie

[BillP]

yes, exactly. 🙂

[Anonymous user · Accepted solution]

Always nice to know when I get it right...'-}}

Thanks...

Terrie