Frequently Asked Question

An Uninterruptible Power Supply is a device that sits between a power supply (e.g. a wall outlet) and a device (e.g. a computer) to prevent undesired features of the power source (outages, sags, surges, bad harmonics, etc.) from the supply from adversely affecting the performance of the device.

In a UPS scenario, a bypass feature is in essence, a switch between the input and output of the device. It allows the routing or transfer of incoming power to the output bypassing any internal circuitry. The bypass function uses the A/C supply power as its standby source of power. This feature allows power to continue to flow to connected equipment if the UPS system encounters an internal error or overload condition. The UPS system will automatically transfer to the by-pass quickly to ensure that the connected equipment continues to operate.

The output of a UPS or Power Conditioning product is measured in volt-amperes or VA (output voltage x output current). The term kVA refers to kilo-volt-amperes or VA x 1000.

Put simply, real power (watts)/apparent power (VA) = power factor

Multiply the voltage rating of the equipment by the current rating of the equipment to obtain a VA rating. The UPS must be rated to deliver at least this VA rating.

Yes, if the UPS is sized large enough for the application. Maintaining close proximity of the hardware to be supported is preferred to long distance electrical runs, which can cause unwanted ground current imbalances. Our technical staff is available to assist in the design of the electrical distribution.

Lugs inside the UPS module should only be changed by a qualified WSI Services Field Engineer.