Eaton: UPS Backup

Overview

Eaton UPS Backup protects small servers, networking gear, and clinical workstations from outages and poor power quality. Line-interactive models (5S/5SC/5P) add automatic voltage regulation (AVR) for efficient protection, while online double-conversion models (9PX/9SX) deliver the cleanest output with zero transfer time for sensitive or mission-critical loads. Most models provide true sine-wave output, high power factor (often 0.9–1.0), hot-swappable batteries, outlet group control, and optional network management.

Which Eaton family to choose

• 5S / 5SC / 5P (line-interactive)
  • Use if: You’re protecting switches, firewalls, VoIP, small servers, or carts; you need solid AVR and good efficiency.
  • Avoid if: Your site has frequent brownouts, generator instability, or highly sensitive lab/medical devices that require zero transfer time.
• 9PX / 9SX (online double-conversion)
  • Use if: Downtime is costly, loads are sensitive to voltage/frequency changes, or you run on generators regularly.
  • Trade-offs: Higher cost and heat output vs. line-interactive, but superior conditioning and no transfer time.

How to size an Eaton UPS

1. List your loads and watts. Check device nameplates or PDU readings. Convert VA to watts if needed using power factor (PF). Example: 300 VA at 0.9 PF ≈ 270 W.
2. Add headroom (20–30%). This covers startup surges and future growth. Target ≤80% UPS load for healthier batteries and longer runtime.
3. Choose topology. Line-interactive for most closets; online for unstable power, generators, or critical systems.
4. Pick form factor and plug type. Tower vs. rack depth, rail kits, and outlet/receptacle (e.g., 5-15P, 5-20P, L5-30P) must match your site.

Example: Firewall (40 W) + PoE switch (250 W average) + small server (180 W) = 470 W. Add 30% headroom → ~610 W. A 1500 VA (≈1000–1440 W, model-dependent) line-interactive 5P provides ample capacity and room to grow.

Runtime planning

• Typical internal runtime: At 300–600 W, many 1500 VA line-interactive units deliver ~7–20 minutes. Online 3000 VA units at 600–1200 W often deliver ~10–25 minutes. Always verify the model’s runtime chart.
• External Battery Modules (EBMs): Each EBM can 2–4× runtime depending on load and model. Plan cabling and rack space up front.
• Load shedding: Map non-critical devices to a separate outlet group and set shutdown timers to extend runtime for switches/firewalls.
• Battery health: Expect 3–5 years at 77°F (25°C). Every 10°C (18°F) rise roughly halves battery life. Keep closets cool and dust-free.

Deployment examples

Edge network closet

A 5P 1500 VA tower supports firewall, 24-port PoE switch, and AP controller. Outlet Group 1 powers core networking; Group 2 powers signage/AP chargers and is shed at 5 minutes remaining. SNMP alerts trigger tickets.

Healthcare / mobile cart

5SC/5P line-interactive for terminals and peripherals when moving between rooms. For sensitive equipment or erratic facility power, step up to 9SX for zero transfer time and tighter voltage/frequency control.

Small server rack

9PX 3000 VA rack with network card. Add one EBM to target 30–60 minutes at ~700 W—enough for clean VM host and storage shutdowns during extended outages.

Accessories and management

• Hot-swappable batteries: Replace without taking critical loads down (observe safety and bypass procedures).
• External Battery Modules: Extend runtime; ensure model-to-EBM compatibility and rack space.
• Network management card: Eaton Network-M2 (model-dependent) enables SNMPv3/HTTPS, email/Syslog alerts, and multi-host shutdown via agents.
• Outlet groups: Program staged on/off, reboot specific outlets, and automate load shedding.
• Maintenance bypass (external): Allows servicing the UPS without interrupting power to critical equipment.

Pros and cons

• Pros: High PF = more usable watts per VA; clean sine output; flexible runtime with EBMs; robust network management; hot-swap batteries.
• Cons: Online units cost more and run warmer; EBMs add weight/space; improper cooling shortens battery life.

Installation and safety notes

• Do not plug printers, heaters, or vacuums into battery-backed outlets—they spike load and drain batteries.
• Avoid daisy-chaining power strips or UPS-to-UPS connections.
• Provide airflow; keep ambient near 68–77°F (20–25°C).
• Verify input plug and circuit (amperage/NEMA type) match your site; balance loads across PDUs.
• On generators, online (9PX/9SX) handles frequency/voltage swings better; confirm acceptable frequency window and THD in the model specs.

FAQ

• How long will it run? Depends on model and load. As a ballpark, a 1500 VA line-interactive at ~600 W often provides ~8–12 minutes; adding an EBM can extend to ~25–40 minutes. Check the runtime chart for your exact model.
• Can I add batteries later? Many 5P/9PX/9SX models support EBMs. Verify the exact model’s EBM part numbers and limits (max chain length).
• Can it shut down multiple servers? Yes. With a network card, Eaton software/agents can orchestrate orderly shutdowns across Windows, Linux, and virtual hosts.
• Will it work with my generator? Yes, but online double-conversion is recommended for unstable generators. Line-interactive may switch to battery if frequency/voltage drift exceeds its window.
• When should I replace batteries? Typically every 3–5 years, sooner in hot environments. Test quarterly and review event logs for reduced runtime or frequent AVR corrections.