Introduction

An uninterrupted power supply (UPS), also known as a battery back-up, provides emergency power and, depending on the topology, line regulation as well to connected equipment by supplying power from a separate source when utility power is not available. It differs from an auxiliary or emergency power system or standby generator, which does not provide instant protection from a momentary power interruption. A UPS, however, can be used to provide uninterrupted power to equipment, typically for 5–15 minutes until an auxiliary power supply can be turned on or utility power is restored.

Since a UPS is typically used to protect computers, data centers, telecommunication equipment or other electrical equipment, issues in its performance – eg., the depletion of the battery charge - can cause injuries, fatalities, serious business disruption or data loss. It is therefore imperative that the UPS is monitored periodically, and its 24 x 7 availability ensured. This is where eG Enterprise helps administrators.