An online UPS, also called a double-conversion UPS, feeds your equipment through its inverter all the time. Incoming power is converted to DC and back to clean AC, so there is no transfer time when the power fails and the output stays stable even when the input voltage or frequency moves around.
When do you need an online UPS?
Choose an online UPS for servers, network racks, laboratory and medical equipment, security systems and any load that must not see a break. It is also a good match for buildings that switch between national power and a generator, because double conversion isolates the load from voltage and frequency changes that can make other UPS types switch to battery often.
Online vs line-interactive
A line-interactive UPS passes mains power through an automatic voltage regulator and switches to battery during an outage, usually in a few milliseconds. It is efficient and suits PCs, routers and small offices. An online UPS costs more, runs warmer and uses fans more, but gives the cleanest and most stable output.
How to size an online UPS
- Add up the watts of the connected equipment and leave 20 to 30 percent headroom.
- Compare the kW rating, not only kVA. Many online models are rated at a power factor of 0.9 or 1.0.
- Small online units of 1 to 3 kVA are usually single phase; 6, 10 kVA and larger models may need a dedicated circuit, and the biggest are three phase.
- For long backup choose a model that accepts external battery packs and ask for the runtime at your real load.
Batteries and maintenance
Sealed lead-acid UPS batteries usually need replacing every few years, faster in hot rooms. Keep the UPS in a ventilated place and check the battery test on its display regularly.
Online UPS at Dar Al-Nashir
Compare GeTX online UPS models (Dar Al-Nashir is the exclusive GeTX distributor in Iraq), APC online UPS models (Dar Al-Nashir is the main APC agent in Iraq) and MUST online UPS, or browse all UPS systems. We are in Baghdad, Al-Sina'a Street.
Frequently asked questions
Is an online UPS better with a generator?
Usually yes. Double conversion isolates the equipment from the voltage and frequency changes of generator power, so the UPS does not keep switching to battery.
What is the difference between online and line-interactive UPS?
An online UPS powers the load through its inverter all the time with no transfer time, while a line-interactive UPS regulates the mains and switches to battery only during an outage.
How long does an online UPS run on battery?
It depends on the load and the battery bank. Models with external battery packs can run much longer; ask for the runtime chart at your load.
Is an online UPS noisy?
Its fans run more than those of a line-interactive UPS, so place it in a ventilated area away from quiet rooms.
