Mary Ann Lacy, training facility coordinator at cascade University plans to install a new network server for her training facility. Mary Ann has been advised by the local electric utility that provides power to cascade University that she probably also needs to install an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for the new server. Mary Ann likes the idea that a UPS would help protect the university's investment in server hardware and reduce user frustration if a power outage occurs. She wants your help with the UPS part of the installation project. The consultant at electric utility mentioned that articles online and in computer periodicals sometimes describe UPS equipment. Many organizations that sell UPS devices for computers have web pages that describe their products the consultant pointed Mary Ann to an online video tutorial on UPS devices. The consultant also recommended a couple of articles in PDF format. Mary Ann would like you to first learn about some of the important features to consider when purchasing and installing a UPS and then write a one or two page summary of the issues cascade University needs to consider in the purchase and installation of a UPS for its new network server.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING UPS

Explanation:

Power

You must consider the power needed. The rule of thumb is to get a UPS with a power capacity that is 25% higher than your total power needed. Furthermore, you must consider its capacity for expansion.

Backup Runtime

We also need to identify how much backup runtime we will need for your UPS. Generally a UPS is needed to have enough time to properly save files and shut down the equipment before a power outage. Since this will be connected to a server, we must look at the capacity to increase the run time.

Type

There are three types of UPS.

For a server, the Online UPS will be best as it provides clean power regardless of its input power.

Tower or Rack Mount

UPS’s are generally available as either a tower or a rack mount.

The type of mount to be considered should take into consideration where it will be placed, the airflow and the ease of fitting bigger batteries if need be.

Maintenance

The maintenance cycle of the batteries should be considered. The longer the maintenance cycle while retaining its reliability, the better.

Total Cost of Ownership

When selecting a UPS, it’s important to remember that  product with lower initial cost may not always be the best long-term solution. The long term durability of such product should be placed as a priority.

Remote Access

Most UPS systems can be managed through their communication ports and a connected computer. This option should be looked at to ease maintenance during off work periods.

Warranty and After Sales Service

Warranties should be considered as it makes maintenance and replacement if batteries easier.