Those who know what a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is, please skip to the next section. Those who are not aware, here is the simple definition: an uninterruptible power supply is a power backup system that helps with uninterrupted power supply during outages, blackouts, or power failures in the main grid or the conventional power supply system. Moreover, they help with voltage regulation and connected device protection.
How Does a UPS Work?
The system works based on the incoming power supply.
- When the incoming grid power is on, the rectifier in the system converts the input AC to battery DC power.
- On the other hand, when the incoming grid power is off, the inverter in the system converts the stored battery DC power to output AC power to supply to the electrical equipment needing power backup, i.e., the UPS power supply.
Moreover, the system has other significant components like filters that help with surge or spike protection and regulation.
Types of UPS topologies in Australia and their beneficiaries
In Australia, the need for UPS is paramount. Hence, everyone must know about the different types of power backup solutions and the right beneficiaries to use each of these UPSs.
- Offline (standby)
- This conventional UPS system uses switches to transition from mains to battery and vice versa.
- Cost-effective and simple working model.
- Thus, residential homes and small offices are the perfect end users.
- This works similarly to the basic offline model but additionally provides voltage regulation.
- Infrastructures with more IT or network equipment and those with constant power fluctuations can use this model to ensure an uninterrupted and filtered power supply.
- Unlike offline and line-interactive models, this UPS power protection system works continuously irrespective of power failure. In other words, the rectifier and inverter continuously convert and provide the power supply to the connected equipment.
- Industries, large enterprises, and crucial infrastructures with high-end servers, critical equipment, and automated machines must prefer this model for continued power supply and protection of the respective devices from unexpected surges and spikes.
- For example, data centers, medical infrastructures, communication networks, control systems, POS points, etc.
Top UPS Brands Available in Australia
1. Eaton
One of the best manufacturers of advanced UPS solutions, with its output ranging from 36 VA to 20k VA, aiding all beneficiaries, including homes, offices, critical business infrastructures, and industries. Their battery types include Lithium-Ion and VRLA. Plus, they can handle input power of up to 240V AC.
Moreover, Tripp Lite by Eaton is renowned for its best-in-quality UPS replacement batteries. Certainly, opting for a UPS battery from this brand can extend the lifespan of your power backup system to many more years.
2. Uptime Systems
Known for the best double-conversion systems, they can handle from 1 KVA to 30 KVA with different setups (rack and tower). Additionally, these UPS features a wide voltage tolerance, flexible battery configuration, automatic bypass, LCD, thermal design, green technology with a power factor of about 0.9, and an intuitive HMI.
3. CyberPower
These are smart UPS solutions with an extensive series range catering to different power blackout use cases. Their specialty lies in the smart sine wave simulation, 60601-1 tested (healthcare), correct spikes without switching, GreenPower UPS™ design, intelligent modules, etc. Their battery capacities range from 350 VA to 10,000 VA.
4. APC
This is one of the world’s leading UPS manufacturers with a gamut of UPS solutions and models. APC UPS power capacities start from 5kVA and extend up to 500kVA. Their battery types include VRLA, Li-ion, Ni-Cd, Lead-acid, and Gel Cell. Besides, these systems can bear input power of up to 480 V with single and three-phase systems.
The most important characteristic of these solutions is certifications. Apart from TAA, they are certified and compliant with several entities, like UL, CE, IEC, FCC, CSA, BAA, etc.
5. Vertiv
This manufacturer focuses on UPS runtime and uptime with innovative technologies and fool-proof power supply mechanisms. Their UPS capacities range from 3kVA to 500kVA, supporting critical facilities and data centers. Their flagship modular Liebert® features maximum efficiency of up to 96% and is recognized as the best premium power protection solution.
6. Power Shield
They are the most sought-after cutting-edge battery producers with advanced battery monitoring and management modules. If you’re looking for the best UPS batteries Australia, think no further and blindly choose Power Shield. Their gaming UPS model, ‘Gladiator’, is popular among gaming companies. Like Eaton and Vertive, they are also known for maximum power protection in the country.
7. SUINT
This is Eaton Tripp Lite’s smart double-conversion UPS model with smart online technologies and extended uptimes. Like other Eaton solutions, this particular series of products is gaining momentum and performing the best in the country.
UPS Brand Comparison: Which option should you consider?
Different UPS manufacturers offer products for different applications, capacities and budgets. Rather than selecting a brand based on reputation alone, compare the features of the specific models available for your requirements.
| UPS brand | What to evaluate | Suitable applications to investigate |
|---|---|---|
| APC | Capacity, runtime, monitoring and product configuration | Business IT, servers and network equipment |
| CyberPower | Power capacity, topology, efficiency and monitoring features | Offices, IT equipment and selected server applications |
| Eaton | Available models, battery options, management features and scalability | Business IT and critical power applications |
| Vertiv | Power capacity, topology, runtime and installation requirements | Server rooms and critical IT infrastructure |
| Delta | Model specifications, power requirements and monitoring capabilities | Business and industrial power applications |
| Uptime Systems | Available capacities, rack or tower configuration and battery options | Business IT and server installations |
The suitability of each brand depends on the specific model, its verified specifications and the intended application. Product availability and configurations should be confirmed before making a recommendation.
When comparing UPS systems, evaluate the total cost of ownership rather than the purchase price alone. Battery replacement, maintenance, monitoring, energy efficiency and future expansion can all influence the long-term value of a power protection solution.
Explore the available UPS systems and compare their specifications with other suitable models in the Source 22 range.
How do I choose the right and best power backup solution?
Different factors help you decide the right UPS suppliers Australia. If cost is your concern, going with cost-effective solutions from CyberPower, Tripp Lite, and Uptime Systems should be the best choice. Not only do they offer the best performance, but they also save you more in terms of maintenance and replacement batteries.
Alternatively, if power capacity, regulation, runtimes, and equipment protection are your concerns, you gotta go with advanced solutions with line-interactive or double-conversion UPS solutions from Uptime Systems, Eaton, and Tripp Lite.
