Eaton 93PM Modular UPS System
In recent years, businesses in various industries have begun prioritizing backup power solutions. This trend is seen across all industries, from oil and gas to healthcare.
The increasing number of outages and the duration of those blackouts are reasons for adopting UPS backup systems. Data shows that in the United States, the average duration of an outage increased from around 3.5 hours to approximately seven. Climate change and the aging electrical grid contribute to the number of outages and their longer durations.
Since these outages are becoming more frequent and extreme, particularly during hurricane season, those who are unprepared may experience data loss, the costly (and potentially fatal) consequences of power surges, and unexpected downtime.
Many business owners have already implemented backup power solutions. However, it’s not always clear what they need. While an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) system is a go-to solution, choosing the right system can be complex. While some immediately invest in a larger-sized, conventional UPS system upfront, that is not always the best option, especially if cash flow is tight. That is why building a modular UPS backup system is beneficial.
Here are some reasons to consider a modular UPS setup and how you can get the support you need as your business grows.
Businesses Need Reliable UPS Systems
A UPS is a continuous power system that provides automated power during an outage. Generators are also beneficial backup power sources, but they don’t always provide immediate power following a main power failure.
For some businesses, losing power for even a few minutes could be detrimental. In healthcare, lives could be lost – and then there are the issues surrounding data loss and sensitive equipment. UPS systems help safeguard these companies, reducing these risks.
Once a UPS kicks in, often from energy stored in batteries, it provides enough runtime for a standby power source to turn on. This process protects hardware, such as computers, hospital equipment, and other electrical gear, which can save critical data or human lives. The benefits are clear – but choosing the right system isn’t always obvious.
Modular vs. Conventional UPS Systems
There is a lot to consider, including the system size you need. That’s often challenging because businesses are unsure how their power requirements will change as they scale. So, many businesses are opting to build modular systems instead of purchasing a conventional UPS system. This option allows you to scale as you add (or remove) modules based on your changing needs. As your power requirements change, you can more easily expand. In contrast, a conventional UPS system has a fixed capacity.
A modular UPS system provides the same short-term emergency power perks as conventional systems, but it has added advantages.
Before making your next big backup power supply investment, here’s what to consider.
Modular UPS Systems Offer Scalability
Purchasing a UPS system based on your current power needs and infrastructure is a beneficial investment. However, what happens when those variables change?
If your business is growing, knowing where you’ll be in three, five, or even ten years can be challenging. So, many are opting for a modular setup. In this case, businesses can start with the power they need and easily add modules as demand grows, minimizing upfront costs and maximizing flexibility.
For example, if you operate a rapidly growing startup, you may be strapped for cash. To account for your anticipated growth, you may upsize your unit, pouring more cash into the system than necessary today. Having the option to add modules later allows your UPS system to grow alongside your business.
You could also remove modules and sell them in the future. Companies like Global Power Supply (GPS) buy used UPS systems, offering free evaluations and top cash offers. In contrast, a traditional system is typically designed around a fixed capacity. If your ongoing load exceeds that capacity, you must replace your unit instead of adding to it. Also, UPS systems don’t perform best when running a 100% load. With a modular system, you can use an additional module to boost efficiency based on scalable loads.
Enjoy Built-in Redundancy and Reliability
Modular UPS systems provide redundancy that reduces downtime and ensures continuity for critical operations.
While conventional UPS systems can offer some internal redundancy, you could lose complete power if that unit fails. In comparison, modular systems offer built-in redundancy. If one module fails, the others will continue operating, minimizing total UPS failure risk.
This advantage is of particular interest to data centers, as they require a redundant UPS design that improves reliability. The N+1 configuration is a common example. However, the premise is that you would have one more module UPS than needed to support the load. An expert power supplier can help you identify the best system and setup for your current power needs and then help you add modules when required.
Experience Energy Efficiency and Space Savings
Higher efficiency and compact design make modular UPS systems ideal for businesses looking to reduce energy costs and optimize space.
If you opt for a traditional UPS system, it is designed to support day-one load. However, many choose an oversized unit to account for potential future growth. Since this system is larger than you’ll need, you may be paying higher energy costs because you’re running an inefficient system. In contrast, you could run a system built for your current needs and add to it as you grow.
Spacing is also a consideration, as a modular UPS system offers a more ideal footprint. Modular designs are generally more compact, which can be a significant perk for data centers that need floor space. Conventional UPS systems often extend horizontally on the floor, whereas module systems are typically stored vertically in a rack. Fewer batteries are also typically needed for modular designs, freeing up more space.
Dive deeper into some top modular UPS brands, including Xtreme Power Conversion and Eaton:
- Xtreme Power Conversion offers the M90U and X90 series, including the X90-5S and X90-2S
- Eaton offers the 93PM
Take Advantage of Future Trends, Like Renewables and AI
Advanced technologies like renewable energy integration, AI-powered maintenance, and lithium-ion batteries are shaping the future of modular UPS systems.
When you invest in a modular UPS system, you experience greater scalability, flexibility, and the possibilities surrounding modular UPS technology. Batteries are an area that is advancing rapidly, and they are one of the most critical components of your system.
As technology advances, AI will help improve efficiency, which is one of the primary benefits of modular systems. Predictive maintenance, load optimization, and adaption voltage regulation are all areas that will likely improve because of AI and machine learning.
In the coming years, the era of energy transformation will add more renewables as energy sources. These energy sources can help charge UPS batteries when available, supporting a more sustainable, cost-effective system. You can discuss your UPS and energy storage systems with an expert provider like GPS.
Resellers Provide Essential Support for Module UPS Systems
When you partner with an expert power supply provider, adding modules doesn’t need to be complicated.
Resellers like GPS help evaluate power needs, configure the right system, integrate UPS with existing infrastructure, and offer financing and technical support.
So, think of building your modular UPS system as an ongoing process supported by those who understand your needs every step of the way. When you have a professional relationship with a partner like GPS, you can build a system that will provide the short-term power insurance you need based on your UPS setup, combined with additional energy storage and power solutions that provide power for longer periods.
Ready to discuss your critical power equipment needs? GPS can help. Our expert team has the knowledge you need to create a customized system. At GPS, we design, install, and maintain systems, supporting the growth of your module UPS setup and overall backup power solutions.
Contact us to learn more about our end-to-end power equipment services, and browse our UPS inventory today!