Sparks Electrical News November 2018

STANDBY AND EMERGENCY POWER

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EFFECTIVE UPS MONITORING F or more than three decades, the cornerstone of network reliabili- ty and availability – the uninterruptible power supply (UPS) – has ensured the protection of hardware, software and data for small, medium and large networks all around the globe. While UPSs themselves are designed to be durable and dependa- ble, maximising their potential requires that they are properly looked after. And, while most are aware that even with care, parts such as batteries will eventually need replacement, many overlook the im- portance of the monitoring and regular maintenance of this vital piece of equipment. Even with the inclusion of self-monitoring software and auto- notification features incorporated into many of the latest models, regular inspections ensure that UPS systems are operating properly. “The recent innovation of a cloud-enabled UPS, designed to protect smaller, distributed IT devices and networks has, however,

through the secure portal, as well as schedule firmware updates. Partners can use the information received from the cloud monitor- ing service to provide additional services to customers, schedule regular inspections and deliver proactive, timely maintenance that will avoid unnecessary downtime. “Included in the benefits of cloud-enabled UPSs is peace of mind, where clients know their UPS system is being monitored and, as a result, properly and proactively maintained for reliable performance in the event of an unplanned power outage,” concludes de Leeuw. “No matter where IT services are located, customers can remain focused on their core competencies and business as usual, safe in the knowledge that this crucial part of their infrastructure is being safely managed.”

Anglophone Africa. The APC by Schneider Electric Smart-UPS with SmartConnect combines ease of installation and use, together with monitoring and automated actionable alerts to propel a new generation of partner service provision. “Monitoring is also a perfect platform for Managed Service Pro- viders (MSPs) to deliver value to their customers because, more than ever, almost every business is dependent on the availability of IT services for its daily operations,” adds de Leeuw. MSPs can install up to 25 APC SmartConnect compatible UPSs at any customer site and integration with APC SmartConnect elimi- nates the need for costly training, ensuring an easy workflow inte- gration by removing the necessity to code or even install SNMP traps. Cloud-enabled UPSs also allow MSPs to view the UPS status

Enquiries: +27 (0)11 254 6400

provided a major step forward in the ease and convenience of maintaining UPSs,” says Riaan de Leeuw, vice president, Schneider Electric ITD

ENGINE AND GENERATOR CONTROLLERS

FOR VOLTAGE AND CURRENT CONTROL

ELECTROMECHANICA (EM) distributes a range of Lovato engine and generator controllers for voltage and current control and engine protection. Features include programmable inputs and outputs and alarm properties. The range of engine protection controllers allows for starting with or without a power key switch, with front LED indicators for engine alarm conditions and diagnostics. A range of stand- alone genset controllers is also available for en- gine control. Automatic mains failure genset controllers al- low for automatic generator start-up and load switching to a standby emergency power source in case of mains failure. Other products include paralleling controllers, remote units, communica- tion devices, accessories, and software. Lovato engine and generator controllers fea- ture extensive functionality to satisfy all applica- tion requirements. Power supply ranges from 12 to 24 V dc, with communication interfaces includ- ing RS232, RS485, USB, and Ethernet. The optical port on the panel front allows for PC, smartphone, or tablet interface via a standard USB or WiFi point for programming, diagnostics, and data download, with the added advantage of not having to remove power to the electric panel. Both the controller front and internal display frame seal have IP65 protection. With the addi- tion of a UV film, this means that the controller can be used outdoors. The slim frame profile and reduced total depth simplify installation of these controllers in compact electric panels. The rear of the controller has four fitting slots to secure cables connected to the terminals with cable ties in a tidy manner inside the electric pan- el. A plastic retainer is also provided as standard in order to keep the expansion modules in place when installed in applications with strong vibra- tions. An extensive selection of modules is avail- able to enhance the functionality of the Lovato controllers. These include a GPRS/GSM modem configured automatically by the genset controller. Further features are their ergonomic design and quality.

Enquiries: +27 (0)11 249 5000

NOVEMBER 2018 SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS