SRC 5,6,8 and 10 KVA FAQ

Published 05/13/2011 03:20 AM | Updated 05/13/2011 03:21 AM | Answer ID 11361

SRC 5,6,8 and 10 KVA FAQ
Q: Do the SRC 5-10 KVA UXI Models turn on without battery when the Input Power is available?
A: Yes

Q: What is the use of Parallel Kit(SRCPK001 & SRCPK002)?

A: The Parallel Kit allows you to connect the two UPSs' output supply to the load via a common AC
bus bar. Both the UPSs share the load equally but if one fails (either through developing a fault or
being taken out of service for maintenance), the other UPS will take over powering the load. This only
supports the SRC series of SmartUPS.

Q: What are the advantages of the SRC 5-10 KVA LCD Display?
A: The user can get the clear and correct information of the UPS operation condition such as the load,
input/output voltage, input/output frequency, and battery voltage, etc.,The Output Voltage can be set
through LCD: 220 / 230 / 240 Vac.

Q: Can we get information about the charging facility for the SRC5/6/8/10KVAUXI Models?
A: Boost charge & floating charge are available and there are 4 segments of charge current optional to
be set: 1.4A/3A/6A/8A, in accordance with the actual condition to keep the battery at full state, thus
extending the battery life.

Q: When do I need to choose a Service Bypass Panel?

A: In addition to the 1+1 Parallel redundancy system, the Customer can also look into a service
bypass panel which will give you a wrap around bypass. This means that if the Customers needs to
take a UPS out of operation for any reason, they can use the wrap around bypass to bypass the UPS
without taking their load down.

Q: What are the advantages of the APTF10KW01 Isolation Transformer?

A: APTF10KW01 is used as filters, isolating the UPS and connected equipment from any outside utility
line fluctuations or interference. APTF10KW01 step-down transformers are used to convert a higher
input voltage to a lower output voltage which might be more fitting for certain environments or system
configurations.
Q: What is the battery voltage that is required for SRC 5 and 6 KUXI Models?
A: Requires a 192 Vdc battery system.

Q: What is the battery voltage that is required for SRC 8 and 8 KUXI Models?
A: Requires a 240 Vdc battery system.
Adding External Batteries to an SU, SUM, SURT, or SUA
series Smart-UPS
Published 07/03/2010 04:59 AM | Updated 07/03/2010 04:59 AM | Answer ID 11060
How do I know what quantity to set for number of battery packs on my SmartUPS XL?
When configuring external batteries with a Smart-UPS XL you must manually tell the UPS how many
batteries are connected. The exception to this is the new SMT and SMX Smart-UPS which use
intelligent battery packs and will auto-configure.

Each external battery pack is configured as "1" within Powerchute Business Edition or the Network
Management card and we recommend no more than 10 battery packs connected.

The exceptions to this are:

SU48RMXLBP - Each unit counts as "2" in the interface. Connect a maximum of 5 of these packs.

UX or UXA Series Ultra Battery Packs - Each unit counts as "5" in the interface. Connect a
maximum of 2 of these packs.

Please note that the SURT series of UPS count their internal battery as number 1. (IE: An
SURT3000XLT + 1 External Battery would be set to 2 in Powerchute) All other SmartUPS count the
internal battery as 0. (IE: An SUA3000XL + 1 External Battery would be set to 1)

For Information on which battery packs are compatible with your UPS or what estimated runtimes will
be for your configuration, please visit the product page for you UPS at http://www.apc.com

Configuration and use of the SURT003

Published 02/26/2011 12:08 AM | Updated 03/09/2011 02:11 AM | Answer ID 11291
How do I configure my SURT003 transformer?

The SURT003 Transformer is unique in that it can accept either 208v or 240v input and will
output 120v, 208v, and 240v simultaneously. This makes it a great option for supporting
multiple load types from one UPS.
Looking at the back of the SURT003 there is an Input Voltage switch on the left hand side behind a
cover plate. Remove the cover plate, then set the switch to either 208v or 240v, depending on what
you are feeding the transformer. Having the switch in the improper setting will cause the output
voltages of the transformer to be off by +/- 15%.

The nominal output voltages with either a 208v or 240v input are as follows:

L6-20R (Qty2) - 208v (120v Hot, 88v Hot, Ground)

L6-30R (Qty1) - 208v (120v Hot, 88v Hot, Ground)

L14-30R (Qty1)- 240v (120v Hot, 120v Hot, Ground, Neutral)

5-20R - (Qty8) 120v (120v Hot, Ground, Neutral)

Please note that once your input is correctly configured, the output voltages are a direct ratio of the
input.

Example: If the input selector is set to 208v, but the actual input voltage is 210v, you would see 210v
from your 208v L6-30 output. All voltage regulation is performed by the UPS feeding the transformer.

What are the different sensitivity settings of a Smart-UPS?

Published 09/12/2001 11:52 PM | Updated 05/03/2011 01:05 AM | Answer ID 62
This document explains the relationship between the Sensitivity settings
and frequency of transfers to on-battery operation by a Smart-UPS product.
The Smart-UPS detects line voltage distortions such as spikes, notches, dips,
and swells, as well as distortions caused by operation with inexpensive
fuel-powered generators. By default, the UPS reacts to distortions by
transferring to on-battery operation to protect the equipment that you are
plugging into the UPS. Where power quality is poor, the UPS may frequently
transfer to on-battery operation. Battery longevity and service life of the
UPS may be conserved by reducing the sensitivity of the UPS, as long as your
equipment can operate normally under the conditions detailed below. Any type
of voltage disturbance includes; High/Low/No RMS Voltage, Total Harmonic
Distortion(THD), Change in Voltage over Time(dv/dt), Frequency (Hz) out of
tolerance.

High Sensitivity Mode

In the event of any type of voltage disturbance, the UPS will transfer to
battery power and watch the AC line until it can transfer back to line. The
transfer time in this mode depends on how far the line voltage deviates from
the sinewave reference. It is generally 2-4 milliseconds.

Medium Sensitivity Mode

In the event of a RMS voltage-out-of-tolerance(High/Low/No) and
RMS-rate-of-change disturbances(dv/dt) in the line voltage, the UPS will
transfer to battery power and watch the AC line until it can transfer back to
line. In this mode the transfer times are longer but still within acceptable
limits to insure the continuity of a computer's operation. They are generally 6-8 milliseconds.

Low Sensitivity Mode

In the event of a RMS voltage-out-of-tolerance disturbances(High/Low/No) in the
line voltage, the UPS will transfer to battery power and watch the AC line
until it can transfer back to line. In this mode the transfer times are
longer but still within acceptable limits to insure the continuity of a
computer's operation. They are generally 8-10 milliseconds.

"SU" Smart UPS 700va or larger and "SUA" Smart-UPS 1000va or larger have a sensitivity button on
the rear panel of the UPS. To change the sensitivity of the UPS, press the small, white "sensitivity"
button* on the rear of the UPS. Use a pointed object (such as a pen) to do so. The default setting is
"high"; press the button once to set the sensitivity to "medium", and press it again to set it to "low";
pressing it a third time will set it back to "high". The sensitivity setting change will take effect
immediately. The green LED next to the button is a sensitivity setting indicator - brightly lit is "high"
sensitivity, dimly lit is "medium", and off is "low" sensitivity.

The video below illustrates how to change the sensitivity:

Note: In any sensitivity mode, a Smart-UPS will transfer to battery when the
Frequency(Hz) is out of tolerance(+/-5%).

"SMT" and "SMX" model Smart-UPS have an interactive LCD screen which can be used to adjust
sensitivity. You must have "advanced" menus enabled in order to adjust sensitivity. The "advanced"
menu option can be selected in the configuration menu. Once advanced menus are enabled you will
have an option in the configuration menu for sensitivity.

If your model Smart-UPS has neither a sensitivity button or LCD screen you may still adjust sensitivity
via the Powerchute application.
Some equipment may be more sensitive to line disturbances. To find out how you equipment may
react, please see your equipment manufacturer.

How do I configure a 208v SmartupS RT for use with a 240v

input?
Published 12/20/2008 12:19 AM | Updated 12/20/2008 12:19 AM | Answer ID 9520
How do I configure a 208v Smart UPS RT for use with a 240v input?
The Smart UPS RT line has a very broad range of acceptable input voltages, and as such you do
not need to do anything on the input side. By default the unit will accept the 240v input but continue to
provide 208v output.
In order to avoid a sudden voltage shift in the event that the UPS goes to bypass it is recommended
to configure the UPS output to match the UPS input.

This can be done via a Hyper terminal session, or more commonly using the Network Management
Card interface. From within the Network Management Card web interface you would select the UPS
tab. On the UPS tab we would select Configuration and then Power. Here we choose 240 VAC
output and click Apply. The UPS will now output 240v.

Please note that this is an unbalanced output with no neutral provided. If you need 120 v for
your equipment you will still need to use a stepdown transformer.

The Stepdown Transformer must allow for 240v input, such as the SURT003 or APTF10KT01.

The AP9626, AP9627, and AP9628 would not be appropriate as they are designed for 208v input only.

Hardwiring to 120v, 208v, and 240v loads from a 7500va or

larger 208v SmartUPS RT UPS
Published 06/12/2010 03:28 AM | Updated 03/09/2011 02:09 AM | Answer ID 11046
How do I hardwire out to 120 volt, 208 volt, and 240 volt loads from my 208 volt Smart-UPS RT?

The 208 volt Smart-UPS RT units are a single phase UPS with a 3 wire unbalanced output. They
require 2 hots and a ground on the input, and 2 hots and a ground on the output. They do not use a
neutral. The output of the UPS is unbalanced, meaning that from hot to hot you will see 208 volts,
however it is not 2 120 volt legs that are 120 degrees out of phase as you would traditionally see from
208 volt utility power.
In order to support a 120V load you will need a stepdown transformer to balance the output and
provide a neutral. Attempting to hardwire out to a 120V load without the use of a transformer will result
in load drops and possibly load damage!

In addition to a selection of smaller 5kva plug in stepdown transformers, APC manufactures 3 larger
hardwire stepdowns in 10kva and 20kva capacities - APTF10KT01, APTF10KW01, and the
APTF20KW01

All three of these units create their output in a similar fashion. A neutral is created via a center tap
on the transformer.

To supply a 120 v load, the transformer provides:

• 2 120 volt legs that are 180 degrees out of phase

• Ground
• Neutral
This creates a traditional 240 v/120 v panel where there are 2 legs of 120 v and from hot to hot
you would measure 240 volts.

To supply a 208 v load, the transformer provides:

• 120 v Hot Leg

• 88 v Hot Leg (180 degrees out of phase from the 120 v leg)
• Ground
In this configuration you would measure 208 volts from Hot to Hot.

For detailed wiring directions, diagrams, and specifications, please consult the users manual for
your stepdown transformer.

Using both of these configurations you can support both 208v and 120v loads, however you are
not able to output to a traditional 208v / 120v panel where there are 2 120v legs that are 120
degrees out of phase. If a 208v / 120v output panel is required you must use one of our split
phase solutions. We offer 2 split phase RT units (SURTD5000RMXLP3U and
SURTD6000RMXLP3U) as well as the entire Symmetra LX line. A split phase UPS will require a
4 wire input and will output 2 balanced 120 v legs, a ground, and a neutral.

Load is connected to a SmartUPS, yet reports as 0% on the

display or in software.
Published 03/11/2010 03:53 AM | Updated 03/10/2011 05:14 PM | Answer ID 10960
I connected a small load to my Smart-UPS, but it is reporting 0% Load. Why is this?
Smart-UPS products may not report very small loads attached to them. If you increase your load to
greater than 10% you will see the load reported properly in Powerchute, your Network Management
Card, or LCD display (if so equipped). This is normal behavior from the UPS.
Watt Ratings Differs From Volt Amp Ratings
Published 01/07/2002 04:00 PM | Updated 09/04/2008 11:59 PM | Answer ID 1503
What is the differences between Watts and VA and how are these terms used in specifying power
protection equipment?
Introduction

This note helps explain the differences between Watts and VA and explains how

the terms are correctly and incorrectly used in specifying power protection

equipment. Many people are confused about the distinction between the Watt and

Volt-Amp (V-A) measures for UPS load sizing.

Background

The power drawn by computing equipment is expressed in Watts or Volt-Amps

(VA). The power in Watts is the real power drawn by the equipment. Volt-Amps

is called the "apparent power" and is the product of the voltage applied to the

equipment times the current drawn by the equipment.

Both Watt and VA ratings have a use and purpose. The Watt rating determines

the actual power purchased from the utility company and the heat loading

generated by the equipment. The VA rating is used for sizing wiring and

circuit breakers.
The VA and Watt ratings for some types of electrical loads, like incandescent

light bulbs, are identical. However, for computer equipment the Watt and VA

ratings can differ significantly, with the VA rating always being equal to or

larger than the Watt rating. The ratio of the Watt to VA rating is called the

"Power Factor" and is expressed either as a number (i.e. 0.7) or a percentage

(i.e. 70%).

The power rating of the UPS

UPS have both Watt ratings and VA ratings. Neither the Watt nor the VA rating

of a UPS may be exceeded.

In most cases, UPS manufacturers only publish the VA rating of the UPS.

However, it is a standard in the industry that the Watt rating is approximately

60% of the VA rating, this being the typical power factor of common loads.

Therefore, it is safe to assume that the Watt rating of the UPS is 60% of the

published VA rating.
How to avoid sizing errors

Using APC sizing guidelines or and APC Configuration can help avoid these

problems, as the load power values are verified.

Equipment nameplate ratings are often in VA, which makes it difficult to know

the Watt ratings. If using equipment nameplate ratings for sizing, a user

might configure a system which appears to be correctly sized based on VA

ratings but actually exceeds the UPS Watt rating.

By sizing the VA rating of a load to be no greater than 60% of the VA rating of

the UPS, it is impossible to exceed the Watt rating of the UPS. Therefore,

unless you have high certainty of the Watt ratings of the loads, the safest

approach is to keep the sum of the load nameplate ratings below 60% of the UPS

VA rating.

Note that this conservative sizing approach will typically give rise to an

oversized UPS and a larger run time than expected. If optimization of the

system and an accurate run time are required, use APC sizing and Worldwide Web
configuration tools.

Conclusion

Power consumption information on computer loads is often not specified in a way

that allows simple sizing of a UPS. It is possible to configure systems that

appear to be correctly sized but actually overload the UPS. By slightly over

sizing the UPS compared with the nameplate ratings of the equipment, proper

operation of the system is ensured. Over sizing also provides the side benefit

of providing additional UPS backup time.

Why can I measure voltage between the ground and neutral
wires when my UPS is on battery?
Published 07/24/2003 01:26 AM | Updated 01/07/2011 02:46 AM | Answer ID 2946
Why would I be able to measure voltage between the ground and neutral wires when my UPS is
operating on battery?
The voltage readings a customer measures on the input plug when the UPS is on inverter is due to the
continuous neutral in the UPS. At the time the Smart-UPS 3G was designed, UL prohibited the
breaking of the neutral during battery operation. There is not enough energy present at the plug under
this type of situation to even give the smallest of electric shocks. In addition, the capacitive divider
present in the UPS due to some common mode filtering devices in the UPS may also cause the
customer to measure some voltage. However, our product was designed to meet all the safety
requirements to bear the UL mark. Recently UL has reversed their position on continuous neutrals and
has made changes to their standards, which require both hot and neutral to be broken during battery
operation. Ground however is never broken.

The newer Smart-UPS products (Part numbers beginning with SUA, SUM, or SURT) were designed in
accordance with the revised standard and will not exhibit the behavior. The Smart-UPS 3G line has
also been updated so that it will comply with the new standard effective 02/01. On November 17, 2000
UL's standard changed to have backfeed protection for stationary UPS's, with an output that is not a
separately derived system must de-energize all supply conductors i.e. break both line and neutral. The
backfeed protection requirement is listed below from UL 1778 Section 29. All paragraph references are
to a section in UL 1778.

A UPS shall be provided with backfeed to prevent a potential involving a risk of electric shock(see
Electric Shock Section 8) from being present on its input terminals during interruption of the input ac
power.

With reference to the requirement in 29.1, performance of the protection is to be judged by conducting
the Backfeed Protection Test, Section 48.

The protection mentioned above shall employ an automatic switching device having air-gap contacts
such as an electromechanical relay for preventing a potential involving a risk of electric shock from
appearing on the input terminals. A unit provided with a remote shunt-trip circuit breaker, which will
open the input ac circuit when the input ac power is interrupted, complies with this requirement. If the
remote shunt-trip circuit breaker is not provided with the unit, then a marking as described in 72.1.33
shall be provided.

Exception: An electronic control employing a solid-state power switching component and subjected to
the tests described in 29.6 may be provided in lieu of an air-gap contact device.

The backfeed protection for a stationary UPS, with an output that is not a separately derived system,
shall:

a) Open or de-energize all supply conductors; or

b) Make the blades of the supply cord inaccessible when the supply cord is removed from the
receptacle,

Exception: This requirement does not apply to a stationary UPS provided with a single output
receptacle.

One result of breaking the input Neutral and Hot connections when operating on battery is that you
may be able to measure voltage between Neutral and Ground at the output receptacles when the UPS
is on battery. This is phantom voltage which cannot damage equipment or give the smallest of electric
shocks.
Grounding Requirements for APC Products
Published 01/07/2002 04:00 PM | Updated 04/22/2011 03:08 AM | Answer ID 326
What are the grounding requirements for APC products?
Although the Surge Arrest, Surge Station, Back-UPS, Back-UPS Pro, Smart-UPS, Smart-UPS V/S,
and Matrix-UPS products will appear to work properly without a ground, APC always recommends that
these units are grounded properly. Grounding is not for functionality, but rather for safety. Numerous
issues are involved when there is no ground, including potential for electric shock, signal attenuation,
and unpredictable operation. Therefore, APC does not support using these products in any
ungrounded application, even with an earth leakage monitor or other such device in place to alarm in
case of excess current or drop in resistance.

Background: Earth leakage monitors measure the resistance between phase (hot) and any current-
carrying component to ensure that resistance remains high. Leakage current is typically measured by
breaking the ground connection back to the mains and inserting a specific load that simulates a person
interrupting the ground. Devices without a ground are highly insulated, and therefore the missing
ground is not an issue during normal operation. However, were the device to become energized due to
a fault or failure, it would look for a way to deflect the current to ground. Without a ground present, the
current would take the path of least resistance. This would be hazardous as the return path may be
through the load itself, a data line, or even a person.

In 120 Vac environments, each electrical device must reference the same ground which originates at
the main service panel. Additionally, a properly grounded chassis acts as a filter against EMI/RFI
interference. If this ground reference were missing, the EMI/RFI interference may result in erratic
behavior of the device.

Certain types of data communication systems require a reference to ground. Additionally, some data
lines use the ground as a shield against noise. RS-232, and other data cables, rely on ground to
provide a return reference for the signal (although this is not the case with isolated data systems such
as Ethernet). Without a ground, the signal will attenuate.

Causes and solutions for a beeping APC Back-UPS Product

Published 01/07/2002 04:00 PM | Updated 10/07/2009 03:53 PM | Answer ID 480
Why is my APC Back-UPS Product emitting different tones and LED indicators?
UPSs are generally installed and placed in places not easily seen by a user (i.e., under a desk, in a
wiring closet, etc). Therefore, in order to provide proactive warnings of changing UPS and power
conditions to users, APC's UPSs have audible tones. An occasional single beep from the UPS is
normal UPS operations. This means that the UPS is protecting the load. Below is a list of audible
indicators and possible meanings. Please refer to your Back-UPS user manual for the complete list of
which audible tones the unit you purchased has.

1.)The Back-UPS product is operating on battery power

Tones:
• 4 Beeps Every 30 Seconds (the amber On Battery LED will be illuminated)
. 1 beep every 5 seconds

Meaning :
This alarm indicates that the UPS has transferred from On Line operation to On Battery operation. The
Battery Power Supplied outlets are now battery powered.

- If the input voltage is determined to be unsafe for your computer equipment, the UPS will transfer to
On Battery. The alarm will stop once the unit returns to On Line operation. Please refer to the technical
specification section of your user manual for the acceptable voltage window. Occasional transfers to
On Battery should not be a matter of concern, but rather, should be considered normal operation. The
UPS is trying to provide clean, safe, and reliable power. If your unit shipped with APC management
software it may be possible to change the default acceptable voltages that the unit shipped with.
Please see the help section of the APC management software for instruction to do this.

- If the Frequency deviates + or - 5 % this will also cause a Back-UPS product to transfer to battery
power. Frequency distortions are most commonly caused by generators that are undersized. Always
make sure a generator is 3 to 5 times the size of the total load attached to unsure it can maintain a
steady output frequency. There is no way to change the +/- 5% deviation.

- If the shape of the incoming power is considered "too dirty", some Back-UPS products may transfer
to battery power. This is most likely the problem if you have already confirmed that the input voltage is
within the acceptable limits. Most Back-UPS products have the ability to change their sensitivity to the
shape of the input power from high to medium or even low. Please see your user manual for details as
to how to adjust this setting.

Note: If the power disturbance is brief, you may only hear the unit beep once or twice.

2.) The Back-UPS product has entered a low battery condition

• Continuous Beeping (the amber On Battery LED will be illuminated)
Meaning :
This alarm indicates that the UPS has reached a Low Battery condition and will soon shutdown. The
UPS can only operate on battery for a limited amount of time. In order to protect the unit's batteries
from discharging too much, the UPS will shutdown and turn off its output. To warn you that the unit will
soon shutdown, the UPS will sound this alarm 2 minutes before actual shutdown. With optional APC
management software, 2 minutes can be changed to give you more of a warning of impending
shutdown. If you hear this tone, you should immediately gracefully shutdown your operating system to
prevent data loss or corruption.

Note: This graceful shutdown will occur automatically if the APC management software is being used.

3.)Capacity Overload
• Constant, Solid Tone (the red Overload LED will be illuminated)

Meaning:
This alarm indicates that the UPS has detected an Overload condition. If this alarm is sounded, try
removing non-essential equipment. The alarm will remain until the load is reduced. To determine if
your UPS is capable of handling the equipment you want to protect, visit APC's Sizing Guide at
www.apcc.com/sizing.

If the Back UPS emits a constant flat tone and reducing the load does not solve the problem please try
the following steps:

1) Turn the UPS off.

2) Unplug all the equipment from the UPS
3) Unplug the UPS from the wall outlet
4) Push and hold the power on button (you will hear two beeps) release the button before the second
beep ends.

At this point, the UPS will either go into battery and work fine or it will continue to emit a constant flat
tone. If the unit still emits this tone, it is an indicator that the UPS was permanently damaged due to
the overload. Please contact APC at 800-890-4272 for a replacement or visit APC's Sizing Guide at
www.apcc.com/sizing
4.) Unit failed a selftest
• Continuous Beeps for One Minute; Repeated Every 5 Hours (Replace Battery LED will be
illuminated)
Meaning: Most Back-UPS products perform an internal self-test every 14 days, checking the integrity
of the battery. If the battery fails the self-test, the "Replace Battery" LED will illuminate. The Replace
Battery LED is a WARNING that the battery may be near the end of its life, and replacement is
typically recommended within 2-4 weeks.

Step 1:
Confirm that the Back-UPS product's internal battery has been connected. The instructions on how to
do this are in the user manual.

Step 2:
Verify that the UPS is not being overloaded (refer to the Back-UPS products User Manual for watt
capcity of the battery outlets). APC recommends plugging only the computers and monitors in the
battery powered outlets, other peripherals should be plugged into the "Surge Only" outlets labeled on
the back of the UPS. Outlet strips or surge protectors should NEVER be plugged into any UPS.
Remove any excessive load from the UPS. On the same note if the Back-UPS product is close to
being fully loaded (>80% of the battery outlet’s watt capacity) it is not recommended that the Back-
UPS product be used as a master on switch to turn on your equipment. Instead power the Back-UPS
product on letting it complete its self-test before turning on the connected equipment. It is also
acceptable to leave the Back-UPS product on and never turn it off.

Step 3:
Disconnect the external battery pack if one is in use. A self-test should be performed with the UPS fully
charged (charging without interruption or transfer to battery for 5 hours) and normal load attached. To
do this, making sure the Back-UPS product is plugged into the wall, push the On/Off button and hold it
for approximately 4 seconds until a long tone is heard. The "On Battery" (yellow) LED will illuminate
while the "On Line" (green) LED will flash. This test will last about 15 seconds and will yield one of 2
results: If the Replace Battery LED stays lit (the unit will beep/chirp for 1 full minute indicating a failed
test) the battery should be replaced. If the replace battery LED turns off, then the battery does not
need replacement.

Step 4: (Proceed only if "step 3" does not clear the Replace Battery LED)
The Back-UPS product comes with a 2 year warranty which includes the battery. If the Back-UPS
product was purchased within 2 years, please EMAIL support and reference the steps performed in
this document. Also include the exact part number and serial number found on the bottom of the Back-
UPS RS/XS.

If the Back-UPS product is outside of the 2 year warranty, click HERE for upgrade and battery
replacement options

5.)Disabling UPS audible alarm tones.

Meaning: When using the PowerChute Personal Edition software, the UPS audible alarm tones can be
disabled.

Step 1:
Connect the UPS's RJ45 to USB communications cable between the UPS and the computer. Ensure
the USB cable is inserted directly into one of the host computer's native USB ports. Do not use a hub
or after market USB cards to establish communications.

Step 2:
Once the computer has detected the "New Hardware Device", install the PowerChute Personal Edition
software onto a currently supported operating system.

Step 3:
Once the software has been properly installed, the UPS's audible alarms can be disabled by accessing
the "Notifications Configuration" section found under the "Configurations" Tab and altering the "Battery
Back-UPS Alarm" section. Here the alarms can be enabled for all events, disabled for all events,
disabled during specific UPS conditions or during customer specified time periods.

Descriptions of Smart-UPS Audible Alarms

Published 09/17/2002 10:52 PM | Updated 04/15/2009 03:57 PM | Answer ID 6789
What are the different audible alarms a Smart-UPS can emit, and what do they mean?
The various models in the Smart-UPS product line all have the same audible alarms, and these
audible alarms will be accompanied by a visual alarm (LED) as well. Please see your Smart-UPS
User's Manual for information on the UPS's visual indicators (LEDs).

There are four main reasons the Smart-UPS will emit an audible alarm; they are:

1. UPS is on battery
2. UPS capacity is overloaded
3. UPS has failed the battery self-test
4. UPS is on battery, and in a low-battery state (battery is almost discharged).

These four different conditions each will produce a different audible and visual alarm. The alarms are
as follows:

1. UPS is on battery - unit will beep 4 times every 30 seconds, and the amber "on-battery" LED will be
illuminated, until normal power is restored, and unit transfers back to on-line power.
Note: This alarm can be disabled by pressing the "I/Test" button on the front of the Smart-UPS. Doing
this will disable the audible alarm for this on-battery event only; the next time the UPS transfers to
battery power, it will beep, and the alarm will again need to be disabled.

2. UPS capacity is overloaded - unit will emit a loud solid tone, and the red "overload" LED will be
illuminated, until the load is sufficiently reduced.
Note: This alarm cannot be disabled.

3. UPS has failed the battery self-test - unit will beep continuously for 1 minute, every 5 hours, and the
red "replace-battery" LED will be illuminated, until the condition is cleared.
Note: This alarm cannot de disabled.

4. UPS is on battery, and in a low-battery state - the unit will beep continuously for the duration of the
low-battery-signal time (default of 2 minutes). In this condition, the amber on-battery LED will be on,
and the bottom battery-charge LED will be flashing. This alarm is to alert you to the fact that the UPS is
about to shut off due to a discharged battery.
Note: This alarm cannot be disabled.

Some of the newer Smart-UPS models also have an alarm which will sound if the internal battery is not
connected. The Smart-UPS 700/1000/1400 RM2U units, as well as all new Smart-UPS "A" models
(with USB support) have this feature. If the internal battery in these units is not connected, the unit will
beep every 4 seconds, and the red "Replace Battery" LED will flash. The internal battery connection
should be checked.

An additional sound that the Smart-UPS may produce is a clicking sound. The Smart-UPS will make a
clicking sound when the UPS is enabling AVR Boost or AVR Trim. AVR Boost is when the UPS uses
the internal transformer to increase input voltage which may be too low; AVR Trim is when the UPS
uses the internal transformer to decrease input voltage which may be too high. When the UPS
switches to use this transformer, an internal relay makes a clicking sound. This is normal operation of
the UPS reacting to too-high, or too-low voltage.
The above alarms are the normal, expected alarms of the Smart-UPS. If your Smart-UPS is emitting
an audible or visual alarm which does not fit into the above explanations, please contact APC technical
support for further troubleshooting as this may be indicative of an internal fault.
Why are the battery charge LEDs flashing on a Smart-UPS?
Published 01/07/2002 04:00 PM | Updated 02/17/2009 04:52 AM | Answer ID 1497
This document explains why the battery bar graph LED (light emitting diodes) lights may flash in
unison on a Smart-UPS. PowerChute plus also reports that the batteries are discharged. This is NOT a
failure indication.
When operating on line, the runtime remaining (calculated by the Smart-UPS microprocessor) must be
AT LEAST two minutes more than the low battery signal warning time. Otherwise, the battery charge
graph LEDs will flash.
Option 1: Reset the low battery signal time to a lesser value. Take for example a Smart-UPS with 15
minutes of runtime at full charge, and with the low battery signal warning time set for 7 minutes. If
runtime remaining is 8 minutes or less , then the battery bar graph LEDs will flash in unison. Try
setting the low battery signal warning time to a lesser value through the Configuration menu and then
the UPS Shutdown Parameters submenu of PowerChute plus. Two minutes is the lowest setting
option available. Please keep in mind that when using PowerChute Business Edition server and
console, the low battery signal time is set to 5 minutes and cannot be changed.

Option 2: Reduce the load or replace the battery. The firmware inside a Smart-UPS is designed to last
for years, yet the batteries are consumable items. As the batteries age, they lose their ability to hold a
charge and therefore available runtime will decrease over time. Once the runtime remaining is within 2
minutes of the low battery signal warning time, the battery charge LEDs will begin to flash and
PowerChute software / SmartSlot accessories will report that the "UPS batteries are discharged", even
if the battery is at 100% capacity. In the case of an older unit running with a heavy load, try reducing
the attached load. If the unit is an XL (Extended Run) model, then try adding an additional battery
pack. Typical battery life is 3 - 6 years. If you have an older UPS, try replacing the battery. XL battery
packs and replacement battery cartridges are available for purchase on our website at
http://www.apcc.com/buy/

Option 3: Perform a Manual Runtime Calibration. This is a manual procedure and should not be
confused with the runtime calibration performed through PowerChute software. The batteries inside of
the Smart-UPS are controlled by a microprocessor within the UPS. Sometimes it is necessary to reset
this microprocessor, especially after the installation of new batteries.

Note: Before beginning the calibration make sure the UPS has been online and charging for at leat 24
hours for just the UPS or 48 hours for a UPS with external batteries.

1. Stop the PowerChute software from running and disconnect the serial cable.
 2. There must be at least a 30% load attached to the UPS during this procedure, and
this load cannot fluctuate more than +/- 5%. This process will cause the UPS to shut off and
cut power to its outlets, therefore, attach a non-critical load to the UPS and then force the
UPS on battery by disconnecting it from utility power.

3. Allow the unit to run on battery until it turns off completely. Make sure a 30% load or
greater is present!

4. Plug the UPS back into the wall outlet and allow it to recharge (it will recharge more
quickly turned off and with no load present). Once the unit has recharged, the "runtime
remaining" calculation should be more accurate. Remember that if the unit is an older model,
then the runtime will not improve significantly.

Note: Should the previous steps not resolve the issue contact APC support at 800.890.4272 for further
assistance.

Background: An APC Smart-UPS has a microprocessor which calculates runtime primarily based on
the load attached to the UPS and on its battery capacity. On the right side of the front display panel
there is a vertical graph of five LEDs. Each LED is an indication of battery charge in increments of
twenty percent: 20, 40, 60, 80, 100% (bottom to top). For example, if the battery charge is 95%, then
only four of the five LEDs are illuminated. To ensure that an operating system receives a graceful
shutdown when using PowerChute plus or a SmartSlot accessory, an alert is generated by the Smart-
UPS indicating that the UPS has reached a low battery condition. The alert is audible (rapid beeping),
visual (flashing battery LED or LEDs), and readable through the graphical interface of PowerChute
software (or a native UPS shutdown program within a particular operating system.) In order to
calculate this "low battery condition," all Smart-UPS products have a preconfigured low battery signal
warning time of two minutes (this is the factory default setting). There are a total of four user-
changeable settings: 2, 5, 7, or 10 minutes. If the low battery signal warning time is set for 2 minutes,
then the alerts will activate simultaneously two minutes prior to shutdown. Similarly, if the total runtime
for a particular UPS is 30 minutes with a low battery signal warning time set at 10 minutes, then the
UPS will run on battery for 20 minutes before the low battery alert begins. Total runtime is primarily
based on two factors, battery capacity and UPS load. UPS load and runtime on battery are inversely
proportional: as load increases, battery runtime decreases and vice versa. When utility power is lost,
the UPS begins discharging the battery in order to support the attached load. Once power returns, the
Smart-UPS will automatically begin to recharge its battery.

What is the battery type and technology is used in APC UPS

Systems?
Published 07/24/2002 11:14 PM | Updated 10/16/2007 07:24 PM | Answer ID 2533
What is the battery type and technology is used in APC UPS Systems?
APC UPS Systems use Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) batteries. VRLA batteries are designed to
recombine hydrogen and oxygen and emit only extremely small amounts of hydrogen under normal
operating conditions. Normal room ventilation is sufficient to remove any hydrogen, so special
ventilation is not required. The electrolyte in a VRLA battery is not in liquid form but is immobilized. The
most common technology, termed “Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) uses a highly porous, absorbent micro
fiberglass mats that immobilize the electrolyte and prevents it from spilling. A crack or hole in the
casing of a VRLA battery using AGM technology will not result in a measurable electrolyte spill. Spill
containment with VRLA batteries is therefore not meaningful or appropriate.

If more detailed battery information is required, including the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet