How to test UPS?

empfun

Hi folks,

I just acquired what I realise to be a monster Compaq (Deltec PRA1400i) UPS. VA1600/980watts. The thing is, I was trying to test it out by turning off the switch to the power socket that the UPS is connected to. But as soon as I flick the switch the UPS turns off of the computer is off. Am I testing it right? Advice needed. Thanks!

DVB_3

What's the Compaq's model number?

empfun

Hi DVB, there is a sticker on the back labeled Deltec and on it is a serial number, some voltage numbers, part number and type which I believe is the model number "PRA 1400i". Any help?

Hi Mr Skint, you suggested disconnecting the power, would that be the same as turning off the power from the socket?

Yes, the UPS is fully charged indicating full strength on the indicators, all bars lit.

By the way, I do not have the UPS data port connected to the system as I do not have the cables nor the software. So technically it should still perform the basic function of providing backup power to the PC, right?

empfun

I think for the OS to know the UPS is there. The UPS has to be connected using a data cable to the system. Something which I do not have.

So what you're saying is for the UPS to work the UPS has to be configured through the OS or proprietary software.

empfun

All righty then, time to burn some cash. Thanks!

Paul_Varjak

I use a Belkin UPS but have not bothered to connect the RS-232 cable, or install any software.

However, the UPS certainly works if I switch off the power supply at the wall socket or if there is a power cut (of which we have had about ten in the past few weeks).

If a power cut occurs I just put the computer in 'hibernate' mode, switch off the UPS until power is restored. When power is restored, I switch on UPS, switch on computer and all the open programs and files etc are as they were before the power cut.

I assume that no UPS would require would actually require the RS-232 data cable to be connected and the software to be connected - it is really just a way to shut down automatically (and saving all data) if, for instance, you leave your computer switched on and unattended.

empfun

Yeah thanks Paul Varjak. I did stumble across a UPS FAQ mentioning that software and data connection is only for monitoring uses. Thanks!

Still I wonder why my UPS is not staying powered when I turn off the power at the wall socket. Hmmmmm...perhaps the battery is dead but I'm almost certain its not. I've got a about 10 dip switches behind, I've turned them all to "on". Don't know if that's right though.

DVB_3

I asked you for the model number for precisely that reason. I will try to find the relevant manual, but if I'm not mistaken Compaq UPS's have a strange default setup, and without the control cable they usually shut themselves down if the load is less than 5% of the nominal (probably some sort of a power leak compensation for some servers, which have always-on components, such as hardware remote consoles, etc).

Paul_Varjak

empfun:

I should answer DVB's questions, he is certainly one of the experts answering questions on this forum!

DVB_3

@Paul - I'm speechless... from now on will have to put even more effort in...

@empfun - below is the link you need to go through.

http://homepage.powerup.com.au/~csanders/deltec.htm

It contains some background info, link to the instruction manual, links to relevant software packages with explanations, and the control cable schematics, so that you can either make your own or order one.

empfun

Thanks guys. Works okay now, no cable of software needed. I guess when I initially tested it out, the battery did not have enough juice in it. Thanks!