Vertiv UPS Backup

Overview

Vertiv (Liebert) UPS Backup units apply data center practices to small and midsize deployments. With line-interactive and online double-conversion options, high power factor outputs (more usable watts per VA), and networked management, they protect switches, firewalls, POS, NVRs, and edge compute from sags, surges, and outages. Hot-swappable batteries and support for external battery cabinets simplify maintenance and runtime scaling across remote sites.

When to Choose Vertiv UPS

• You need clean, sine-wave power for active PFC power supplies, storage, and servers.
• Remote sites require centralized monitoring via web, SNMP, or cloud gateways.
• Standardization across many branches is a priority (consistent runtime, alerts, outlet policies).
• Runtime must be extendable later with external battery modules.
• Hot-swap battery replacement is required to avoid downtime.

Topology: How to Decide

Line-Interactive (e.g., EDGE/PSI families)

• Use if: Power is generally stable; loads are networking gear, VoIP, NVRs, or light servers.
• Pros: Higher efficiency, lower heat and fan noise, lower cost.
• Considerations: Brief transfer on outages; less isolation from severe input distortion.

Online Double-Conversion (e.g., GXT family)

• Use if: Power is noisy or you have generators, or loads are sensitive compute/storage.
• Pros: Near-zero transfer time, tight voltage/frequency regulation, best protection from input issues.
• Considerations: Higher cost, more heat/fan noise; ensure ventilation.

Fast Sizing Guide

1. List loads and watts: firewall (20–40W), ISP modem (15–30W), PoE switch (60–200W+ depending on devices), NVR (30–70W), small server (80–300W each).
2. Add 20–30% headroom for growth and inrush.
3. Pick topology: choose online for sensitive or mission-critical sites; otherwise line-interactive is often sufficient.
4. Set runtime targets: networking often needs 60–120 minutes; compute typically 15–30 minutes for clean shutdowns.
5. Check outputs and form factor: rack (2U–3U) vs tower; outlet types (5-15/20R, C13/C19); input plug and circuit rating.

Typical Runtime Expectations

Actual runtime depends on the exact model and load. Always confirm with the model’s runtime chart.

• With internal batteries only (common 1500–3000VA models):
  • ~25% load: about 18–30 minutes
  • ~50% load: about 8–15 minutes
  • ~75% load: about 5–9 minutes
• External battery modules: often extend runtime roughly linearly at the same load (model-specific).

Management & Orchestration

• Network cards provide web UI and SNMP for status, traps, and metrics (on-battery, remaining runtime, temperature, load).
• Integrate graceful shutdowns for servers and storage when runtime crosses a threshold.
• Use outlet groups to prioritize critical devices and shed non-essentials automatically.

Deployment Scenarios

Retail / Branch

Online UPS powers POS server, switch, firewall, and modem. Outlet groups keep the network up longest. Alerts trigger at low runtime; orderly shutdown begins at 10 minutes remaining.

Security & Video

Line-interactive UPS sized for NVR + core switching, plus a small secondary UPS for priority cameras. Focus runtime on recording and uplink rather than every camera.

Edge Compute

Online double-conversion UPS (or a redundant pair) with external batteries for 20–45 minutes at typical loads. SNMP feeds monitoring; shutdown is coordinated across hosts and storage.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: High power factor (more usable watts), strong management, hot-swappable batteries, scalable runtime options.
• Cons: Online units have higher heat/fan noise and cost; runtime claims vary by model—verify datasheets.

Installation Checklist

• Ventilation: Provide intake/exhaust; avoid sealed cabinets (heat shortens battery life).
• Circuit and plugs: Match input plug to a dedicated branch circuit; confirm voltage (120V/208–240V).
• Rack depth and weight: Verify rail kit compatibility and load rating, especially with external battery cabinets.
• Surge protection: Use data-line protection for Ethernet/coax as needed. Do not place surge strips downstream of the UPS outlets.
• Generators and ATS: For generator-backed sites, online topology is recommended; confirm frequency tolerance.

Operating Tips

• Create a “shed list”: specify which outlets to turn off at 50%, 30%, and 15% runtime remaining.
• Set alerts and actions: Start shutdown at 7–10 minutes remaining; send traps for on-battery and low-battery events.
• Label outlets and loads: Map outlet groups to device names for faster remote support.
• Exercise monthly: Test on-battery behavior during a maintenance window and verify alerts.

Maintenance & Lifecycle

• Battery chemistry: VRLA is cost-effective (typical service life 3–5 years); lithium is lighter with longer life and fewer replacements but higher upfront cost.
• Record keeping: Track install dates and periodic battery tests; replace proactively at critical sites.
• Firmware: Update UPS and network cards during maintenance windows for improved gauges and stability.
• Recycling: Dispose of batteries through certified recycling programs; never discard in general waste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Oversizing for multi-hour runtime when policies call for shutdown in under 30 minutes.
• Powering printers or space heaters from the UPS (large inrush can trip the UPS).
• Ignoring data-line surge pathways (lightning can enter via coax/Ethernet).
• Blocking airflow or mounting above heat-producing gear with no clearance.

Compatibility Notes

• Use pure sine-wave outputs for devices with active PFC power supplies (servers, newer PCs, PoE switches).
• Confirm outlet types and quantity (C13/C19/NEMA) match your PDU and device plugs.
• Check support for external battery cabinets before planning extended runtime.

FAQ

Do I need online double-conversion for my site?
Choose online if outages are frequent, power is noisy, or you run sensitive compute/storage. For stable grids and network closets, line-interactive is often sufficient.

How much headroom should I plan?
Add 20–30% above your measured or estimated steady-state load to handle growth and inrush.

How do I integrate with monitoring?
Install a Vertiv network card and use SNMP to poll key OIDs (on battery, runtime remaining, load, temperature) and receive traps for events.

Can I add runtime later?
Many rack models accept external battery modules; verify compatibility and maximum number of modules per UPS model.

Is it safe to place the UPS in a closed cabinet?
No. Heat shortens battery life and reduces runtime. Provide airflow and follow the manufacturer’s ambient temperature recommendations.