UPS Technology Comparison
Q: Which type of UPS technology should I use?
A: There are three main types of UPS technology, in ascending order of protection (and cost):
- Offline Topology — the cheapest, but offers the least protection. Suitable only for short 5–30 minute backup of non-critical loads. Brief transfer delay on power events.
- Line-Interactive — more load protection, often with built-in AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulation). Quicker transfer than offline. Suited to short-duration backup of moderately critical loads.
- Online Double-Conversion — full load protection, zero transfer time, available with either short or long battery backup. The load is always on the inverter so transfers to battery happen with no break.
Choice is normally dictated by budget weighed against the value of the connected load — a £100 PC may not justify online double-conversion; a £100k MRI scanner does.
Connections
- Offline Topology — referenced, source: https://standbysystems.co.za/ups-batteries-questions-and-answers/
- Line-Interactive — referenced, source: https://standbysystems.co.za/ups-batteries-questions-and-answers/
- Online Double-Conversion — referenced, source: https://standbysystems.co.za/ups-batteries-questions-and-answers/