6 replies
by bfilmfan
Call the local utility and see if they offer a power analysis. Some of them do it for free.
You need to calculate the total draw of all your computer equipment, such as PC's, monitors, hard disk storage arrays, tape backup, laster printers and network hubs and switches (you'd be amazed at the number of people that forget to include these in designs). There is a difference between peak current draw and average amperage utilization.
Does this plan just cover power or is it part of a larger disaster recovery plan?
FEMA and ITIL both cover disaster recovery planning in detail.
by house
To add to BFilmFan's answer, it is the general rule of thumb for standard Uninteruptable Power Supplies (if you plan on using them) to be...
Total x 1.25 = minimum UPS rating
Keep in mind too that if you are using a laser printer, it should be alone, as the initial draw that takes place can cause a significant "undervoltage" to the other devices.
A good UPS can be setup so that it can properly shut down your computers. This will put your mind at ease regarding data loss and corruption due to power outages. You should be aware though that, when is constant use, the batteries tend to lose their potential. Most UPS units will allow you to view the "time before failure". Make sure that your server(s) has enough time to respond and shut down properly by giving it a dry run.
If you want to go crazy, you could invest in a line conditioner. This device will allow you to maintain a stable frequency and current at your location. They cost mega $$$ though, and may not be practical for a 10 client network.
by pgm554
This sounds a bit like a homework question.
But in any case, never install or sell a client / server network without a battery UPS on the server itself. The workstations can get by with surge suppressors.
As for line conditioning, most modern UPS?s have line conditioning built in (i.e. APC Smart and Back series)
See:
http://www.apcc.com/products/family/index.cfm?id=165
As for line conditioners:
http://www.dealtime.com/xPC-Trippe_Lite_Line_Conditioner_1800_LC1800
Line conditioners are actually cheaper than UPS?s.
Rule of thumb is to allow for 10% headroom on the battery backup or line conditioner.
To figure out amps required for a UPS or line conditioner, (they are measured in volt amps) and lets say your server and monitor pull 5 amps.
You would then multiply 5 x 120v (USA) to give you volt amps.
So you would need a UPS that would deliver 600 VA + 10% or 660 VA.
So an APC 720 would be a choice.
I am a certified APC dealer and kind of know these things.
by wlbowers
You are either a student or your boss gave you something to do outside your abilities.
Think about the problem. What happens to a running computer when you take the power plug and rapidly unplug and plug it in 6 or 7 times.
Not a pretty thought huh. Now what can you provide to prevent this from happening.
Do you think the above link was a hint?
Now think what would happen if the data becomes corrupted. How can you prevent that.
Not gonna give you a hint for this one.
Good Luck Lee
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