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Turn-On and Turn-Off Procedures
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Is the unit just not on... Or does it require repair? Have a question about this or another topic? Feel free to email us at: sales@americanbatterycompany.com.
ABC answers questions on our technical support line about many issues. This tip is about an often-asked question regarding just how to properly turn-on or turn-off an UPS unit.
Obviously this is an important question for those that want to use their UPS units. The question is particularly relevant for at least two reasons: (i.) How do I turn the unit on so that it can be employed, as per its intended use; and (ii) If the UPS unit is not on (i.e., not working)... then what's wrong with the unit?
As simple as this tip may seem, the "on/off" procedures are almost as varied as the many makes and models of UPS units on the market today. Quite frankly, UPS units have become quite complex in their design, operation, and intended applications. As such, specific switch types and locations, as well as their respective order of operation, require a helping hand at times.
Typically, there will be one or two switches that need to be switched or pushed to properly power on the UPS. Additionally, there are self-test procedures that should operate in accordance with established routines. To give you a flavor for the variances in "on/off" protocols, we have illustrated the various procedures for turning on or turning off the most popular units.
For this tech tip, we will highlight the most popular units within the APC line (the market leader in single-phased UPS units), to illustrate the point:
First, plug UPS into a known good source of power. Next, turn power switch, which is located on the front panel, to the "on" position. Note: UPS should not make any noise. There are no beeps or other associated noises that indicate that the device is working.
First, plug your UPS unit into a good power source. Next, turn the rocker switch, located on rear of unit, to "I" or the "On" position. Unit should come on and self-test automatically (Self-Test Procedure: Initially the "on-line" light will flash... followed by a brief period when the "on battery" light will come on and stay solid... then the "on battery" light will go out... then "on-line" light will come on and stay solid).
This is the only unit that APC manufactures that shares this procedure. As such, its not surprising that this unit prompts the most questions on our tech hotline. First, plug the unit into a good power source. Turn rear enable switch to the "I" or "On" position. Next, push the flush membranes switch (like you see on a microwave oven) on the front of the panel marked "I". The units should come on and self test automatically. (Self-Test Procedure: Initially the "on-line" light will flash... followed by a brief period when the "on battery" light will come on and stay solid... then the "on battery" light will go out... then "on-line" light will come on and stay solid). Push the flush membrane marked, "O" to turn the unit "Off".
First, plug unit into a good power source. Next, turn rear switch to "I" or "On" position. Then, push Test Button on front panel. Unit should come on and self test automatically. (Self-Test Procedure: Initially the "on-line" light will flash.. followed by a brief period when the "on battery" light will come on and stay solidÉ then the "on battery" light will go outÉ then "on-line" light will come on and stay solid). Push "O" button to turn unit off.
First, plug unit into a good power source. Unit will go into what the manufactures calls a "wake-up mode": it will beep once and lights will flash all at once. Next, push "Test" button on front panel. Unit will come on and self test automatically. (Self-Test Procedure: Initially the "on-line" light will flash... followed by a brief period when the "on battery" light will come on and stay solid... then the "on battery" light will go out... then "on-line" light will come on and stay solid). Push "O" button to turn unit off.
First, plug unit into a good power source. These units are equipped with just one button that serves as both the "On" and the "Off" Button. It's located on the front panel of the unit. There are no other switches or buttons to concern yourself with. Push the "On" button and the unit will self-test automatically.
If you continue to have problems turning your UPS unit on or off, this may be a good indication that your unit many need to be repaired or reconditioned.
Any doctor will agree that exercise is the key to a long and healthy life. Believe it or not , the same advice holds true for the batteries in your UPS units. Before you go out and buy a "Thigh Master" for your UPS... read on.
The batteries in the UPS are Sealed Lead Acid (SLA). The reaction between the acid and the lead produce electricity that is used by the UPS in the case of a power outage. However, there is a dark side to this chemical reaction: Sulfation.
As time goes by, and the battery is not used, a white powdery substance starts to adhere to the plates of lead in the battery. This is called sulfation and is a by-product of the lead-acid chemical reaction. If enough sulfation occurs the acid can no longer make contact with the lead and the battery can no longer produce electricity.
There is a way to prevent sulfation. You guessed it, exercise! If the batteries are regularly exercised, the build-up of sulfates is minimized and the battery life is extended. Here's what you do. Two to four times a year (I suggest when you change your clocks), cut the power to your UPS by simply pulling the plug. Make sure you are not in the middle of any processing on your computer. Let the UPS run on battery for about 3-5 minutes. As the battery heats up the sulfates will release from the plates and fall to the bottom of the battery case. Now the battery has clean lead for the acid to react with, so as to obtain the maximum output.
