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How to choose:Line-interactive vs On-line UPS Systems
2019-12-02

Previous article,we briefly introduced the differences between off-line UPS and online UPS . That post focused on the operation, price, Voltage distortion difference between the two types of UPS; this post is focused, specifically, on the differences between line interactive and online UPSs .

Transfer Time 

During an outage, line-interactive UPS systems typically transfer from line power to battery-derived power within two to four milliseconds, which is more than fast enough to keep all but a small percentage of the most power-sensitive equipment operating without interruption. On-line UPS systems do not have a transfer time because the inverter is already supplying the connected equipment load when an outage occurs.

Surge/Noise Protection 


All Network/Server UPS Systems include surge suppression and line noise filtering components to shield your equipment from damage caused by lightning, surges and electromagnetic (EMI/RFI) line noise. On-line UPS systems offer superior protection because the double-conversion operation isolates equipment from problems on the AC line.

Application


Online double-conversion – These UPS systems provide your facility the highest level of protection by isolating the equipment from raw utility power. The system works by converting power from AC to DC and then back to AC.

This unit is the only UPS that provides power with zero transfer time to the battery, making it ideal for sensitive equipment. That’s why it’s the best option for any facility with mission-critical equipment and in locations with poor power conditions.

Additionally, an online, double conversion UPS has an internal static bypass, ensuring that if your UPS experiences a catastrophic failure or requires maintenance, you may be able to keep your critical loads online during repair or replacement.

Line-interactive –These UPS systems monitor incoming voltage from the utility. If it detects a power loss or anomaly, it will boost or decrease utility power by allowing it to pass to the protected equipment or by running on battery power.

This model is ideal for applications where the utility power is fairly clean. If you have a computer at home or in a small office that you’d like to afford some reliability, you can find a line interactive UPS for an affordable price.

In a word,interactive UPS systems are less expensive than on-line UPS systems,but they also provide less protection than on-line UPS systems. If you want to know more, please check out Kstar’s online and line interactive series to choose the best one for your needs.