Scalable, redundant and efficient are just three key factors that have allowed modular UPS systems to continue to gain popularity.
What is a modular UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) system?
A modular UPS system is made up of multiple, independent modules, which operate together to provide backup power to its connected devices. Modular UPS systems have been engineered to include hot-swappable modules, high efficiency and advanced monitoring, whilst delivering scalability and flexibility.
How do modular UPS systems work?
Each individual module is typically made up of its own set of key components for independent, autonomous operation. These components can include rectifier, inverter, battery, back-feed protection, static bypass and display. Please note, these do tend to differ slightly depending on the specific make and model of the UPS.
What are the benefits of modular UPS solutions?
A key benefit of adopting modular UPS systems is their ability to provide fault tolerance and redundancy. In the event of a module failure, the remaining modules can continue to supply power.
Modular UPS systems also tend to deliver lower total cost of ownership and higher efficiency at higher power capacities to traditional UPS systems.
Which applications are modular UPS systems best suited for?
The modularity of these UPS solutions allow for easy expansion or customisation. The modules can be easily added or removed as need to meet changing power requirements. This level of scalability makes modular UPS systems the ideal choice for a wide range of applications, from small businesses to large corporations, medical facilities, educational institutions and data centres.
How do you choose between a modular UPS system and a standalone UPS solution?
Deciding whether to opt for a modular UPS or a standalone/monolithic/solid state UPS will depend on specific needs. This includes power requirements, scalability, redundancy and budget availability. Additional considerations include:
- A modular UPS system offers greater scalability than a standalone UPS unit. It is therefore important to identify expected growth and the need to easily add or remove capacity as needed.
- Standalone UPS systems have a fixed capacity and cannot be easily expanded beyond their original configuration. Modular UPS units on the other hand can deliver straightforward expansion with the adding or removing of modules as and when required.
- This is more easily achieved with modular UPS solutions as they can be configured with N+1 redundancy, where there are enough modules to cope with the load even if one module fails. Achieving redundancy with a standalone UPS solution needs multiple units.
- TCO (total cost of ownership). Higher efficiency, easier, scalability and reduced maintenance costs, make modular UPS systems the better choice for lower TCO over time. However, it is important to note that these do tend to have a higher initial financial outlay.
How to maintain a modular UPS system?
Maintaining a modular UPS unit is essential and adopting a proactive UPS maintenance schedule is recommended. As with all UPS solutions, regular servicing is needed to ensure there is no damage or wear and tear that may impact the performance of the UPS system. Frequent maintenance will also optimise lifespan, performance and reliability of a modular UPS unit.
Modular UPS solutions
Power Control has an extensive modular UPS portfolio, enabling the business to provide backup power solutions for a wider range of power requirements and applications. These modular UPS systems include the Legrand Trimod HE and the Legrand Keor MOD.
View all modular UPS systems from Power Control