A Line Interactive UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is a type of power protection device commonly used to provide backup power to electronic devices, such as computers, servers, networking equipment, and other critical electronics. Its main function is to protect these devices from power disruptions, such as blackouts, voltage sags, voltage surges, and brownouts.
The primary components of a Line Interactive UPS are:
Battery: The UPS contains a rechargeable battery that stores electrical energy. This battery is the key component that provides backup power during outages or fluctuations in the main power supply.
Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR): The Line Interactive UPS is equipped with an AVR that helps stabilize the incoming voltage. When the input voltage drops or rises beyond certain thresholds, the AVR adjusts the voltage to ensure a steady and safe output to connected devices without drawing on the battery.
Transfer Switch: The UPS includes a transfer switch that detects any interruptions or irregularities in the main power supply. When a power outage occurs or voltage levels become unsafe, the transfer switch quickly switches the power source from the mains to the battery power, ensuring a seamless transition and uninterrupted power supply to connected devices.
Here's how a Line Interactive UPS provides backup power to devices:
Normal Operation: During normal operation, when the main power supply is stable and within the acceptable voltage range, the Line Interactive UPS uses the Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) to condition the incoming power and provide a continuous and stable supply to the connected devices. The battery remains charged during this time.
Power Outage or Voltage Fluctuation: If there is a power outage or the incoming voltage exceeds the safe limits (e.g., a surge or a sag), the UPS's transfer switch activates, and the battery takes over as the power source. The transfer is swift and seamless, ensuring that connected devices continue to receive power without any disruption.
Backup Power: The devices connected to the UPS continue to operate using the energy stored in the UPS's battery. The backup power duration depends on the capacity of the UPS battery and the power consumption of the connected devices.
Automatic Recharge: Once the main power supply is restored and stabilized, the Line Interactive UPS switches back to using the mains power and simultaneously begins recharging the battery for future use.
In summary, a Line Interactive UPS provides protection against power interruptions and fluctuations by continuously regulating the input voltage, switching to battery power when needed, and ensuring a reliable backup power source during outages. This safeguards critical electronic equipment from potential damage or data loss due to power-related issues.