Using low loads with UPSs...

[divide_by_zero]

I have a need to keep power to devices that are in stand-by mode in the event of a power outage. Those devices draw about 2.5 watts and 70mA according to their respective specs.

I had hoped to use APC units like the BE 550 and ES 725 because I already own them. I'm finding inconsistent information regarding minimum load. Some people report that back-ups won't work with such low loads and others claim they've used them successfully.

One way is to test, which I'm willing to do - but first I thought I'd ask here to see if I could get some opinions or actual facts.

Thank you

[TomC87]

Hi,

Some Back UPS have a feature called "Low Load Shutdown". This feature shuts down the UPS after 15 minutes if the load is below 15 - 20W. If the UPS you wish to buy has this feature, then it will not be able to provide a back up for a load of 2.5W.

Regards,

Tom