Why is Powerware the best?

As I have mentioned before, Powerware makes the best UPSes today (2-10kva).

Many people have strong opinions about their brand, but here is my reasoning:

• IBM units are rebranded Powerware units.  IBM customers pay a premium for the best servers and want the best UPS, IBM couldnt take APC's failures and down market line so changed in 2009.
• Powerware ships Genesis/Yuasa High Rate batteries in their 9125 line, APC uses junky BB batts on the equivalent model which suggests Powerware doesnt cheapen its components and cares about quality, not always price
• As electricians, Powerware was always spec'd and installed on new construction projects suggesting engineers respect the Powerware line.
• Components on Powerware are heavy duty.  Screws, handles, boxes, etc are seem to be better made

So if thats the case, why are Powerware units cheaper on your site?  The simple fact is that APC has better brand recognition to my customers and your demand sets my prices. 

But those in the know, buy up my Powerware double conversion 3000va 2U PW9125 units and laugh at the thought of paying $200 more for APC's version.  

vs 

Powerware 6000 through the Ages

Powerware has always made high quality Online Double Conversion UPSes.

The latest 9PX series is just the latest in a long line of 6000 ups.  Today's 9PX series is an evolution of several previous 6000va units.

Curiously, we actually are selling all four versions.

1. Powerware Prestige 6000 (pp60) ... Early 2000s.. still used for medical equipment
2. Powerware 9125-6000 (p9695)  ....  The workhorse, proved Powerware's quality
3. Eaton Powerware 9135 (p9693v) ... The merger of MGE and Eaton made this unit with mixed results
4. Eaton 9PX 6000 (px693) ... The latest and greatest?

IBM UPS units - switch from APC to Powerware

IBM for years has re-branded APC model UPS units with slightly different specs and features.

However recently they changed from APC to Eaton Powerware.  While a quick scan of the web cant find the reason or exact date, I bet it had to do with quality.

APC, now owned by Schnieder Electric (the guys that make SqaureD stuff, et al) was always regarded as the best UPS for under 5000va.  However, since IBM has focused more on large server arrays, the more robust Powerware units (which they have always been good at) is a better fit.

So beware that IBM UPSes sold here and elsewhere could very different depending on the year.

Our favorite IBM Ups (in the APC era is here)

A Number 4 with a Coke and SNMP Card... Bundle Combos are back

While not as tasty as a Deluxe Spicy Chik-fil-A Sandwich... we offer UPS bundles of our popular extended run items.

These include the main UPS unit and Extended Run Cabinet both with fresh from the farm batteries, with some including a network management card and rail kit at usually 10-20% off store prices.  Plus shipping is cheaper!

The bundles include APC, Powerware, Liebert, HP, Tripplite in both Online or Line Interactive Topology for 120 or high voltage.

• HP 3000va 120v [hp312e]
• Liebert 3000va 120v [lp312e]
• Tripplite 3000va 120v Online [to313e]
• APC 3000va 120v [313be]
• Powerware 3000va 208v [p5392ie]

Northern Lights catch you coming down

A good vacation, can open you to new ideas and experiences that in retrospect should have been obvious.

For me, I finally listened to the group Ladytron and fell in love with their early hit Playgirl.  I was turned off by Ladytron because it was categorized as electro-clash, which left me with a bad feeling.   But at 228, 229, 230... plays according to Itunes... I cant imagine living it without them.

The same can be true for UPS brands you are not familiar with.  Powerware and Tripplite used to make some dumpy looking UPSes.  When compared to APC, they just seemed boring & cheaper knock offs.   Yet today they are better looking and performing products. 

While they cant play digitally edited analogue electronic sound shapes with a haunting voice, it might be time to look at these other UPS brands again

Powerware 3000 

Tripplite 3000va
 

KnowUPS - Getting More from your UPS: Issue 2 - Switched Load Management

A common feature desired by many IT users from UPSes is the ability to switch On and Off various loads remotely on the UPS.  Such as during an outage, having UPS plug X shut off to conserve power.
While Powerware and Tripplite have had this feature, APC just recently added it in their 5th generation systems.

Switched Load Management is described as

By using new APC Smart-UPS with switched outlet groups and PowerChute Business Edition 9.0, users can configure the exact sequence by which equipment shuts down and restarts so that more critical servers stay online longer. Users can also power off less critical equipment under certain conditions to conserve runtime. This increased flexibility means greater availability for mission critical equipment.

Look for this SLM in our 5gen APC units: 200v, 300v and in most of our newer Powerware (p9212v), Tripplite (to313) and Liebert Units (lp312).

What does refurbished really mean

Even though I just talked about the need for clear definitions, defining refurbishment in anything other than a grey nebouis concepts, would be counter-productive.  The reason is 90% of what we sell is "refurbished ."  Hell, I even say our rack rails are "refurbished "

In a technical sense, refurbishment means... used computer equipment that has been restored to like-new working condition

At GreenlightUPS, refurbished means... not factory new, but 100% functional with new batteries.

This vague definition can include: never used open box items to well used items. Cosmetically, it can include a mint looking 1998 model UPS to a beat up 2010  model.  Either way, our techs test the item, clean or repair cosmetic and internal components, and install new fresh batteries.

What if I care and prefer a never used open box item to an Ok looking older unit?

Its easy, all the units we sell were released in a fairly tight production window.  Models made today werent made 6 years ago.  So a Powerware 5135 (p5392v) released in 2010 probably is a customer-return or damaged unit rather than an off lease item... meaning its probably unused.  A SmartUPS 3000 3U (303) from 2000, probably has been well used, but fully restored.  Thats why the Powerware is $800 and the SmartUPS is $400

Bottomline, call us anytime and we can find the right unit for your needs.  Our inventory turns over very fast, so we can always find what you need.

MGE UPS Units... could they be the best ever

We have just got a few MGE UPS units in.  MGE is not a popular brand in the United States, but it well known in Europe.   The MGE brand is like a kid from a divorced family, since its owned by APC (Schneider Electric) and Powerware (Eaton).  A merger forced the split in brands

MGE through APC recalls the legendary 3phase units, like the MGE Comet.  Today's MGE Galaxy is its main offering.

MGE through Powerware/Eaton is the single phase UPS units, like the Pulsar units.   Today, Eaton is phasing out the MGE name in the US.  The MGE Pulsar's are now called Eaton MX units.  

Anyway,  we just got in some MGE units.  These units are typically the darlings of electrical engineers.  They are well built units and seem more substantial than the APC units.  Since these are 2010 models, they feature some of the newest UPS advances and features

 The Evolution (mg312) is like the APC SUM3000RMXL2U and the Pulsar MX (mx593) is totally unique in that its like a APC Smart Online and Symmetra, since it can transformer from 5k to 20k by linking units together.

3phase Options

When you need a 3 phase UPS, there are two different types of options.  The first is modular 3phase. The other is integral 3phase.  

Modular systems by APC and Powerware allow you to easily scale, maintain, and replace your UPS as it ages.  If you invest in these units, when one component goes bad, it can easily be replaced.  Further if you need a larger size, you just add more modules.  GreenlightUPS sells the APC Symmetra PX 40 & 80kva.

The other type of 3phase UPS is the Integral type.  These units are very common and made by everyone.  The most popular are the Liebert Infinity and APC Silicon.  While these units can be bought used or refurbished, you take a major risk, since if one component goes bad the replacement is exorbitant.   Only buy these if you have a detailed service history.   These units need regular Preventive Maintenance which can be thousands of dollars each year.

So if you can afford the Symmetra PX series, we strongly recommend it over the integral units.   But, if needed, we can source a well maintained integral UPS from our trusted partners.   We often can find these APC Silcon 208/208v UPS units starting at $6500.00

230volt ... and other High voltage systems

There are 4 different ways that UPSes are designed to handle "high voltage"

The first is 208volt only.  This is the most common type of high voltage system, since nearly all server rooms in commercial facilities have this power pre-wired.  The UPSes input this 208v and then output 208v.

The second is 220,230,240v.  These are primariliy for international use.  UPSes using this power format nearly always have IEC type plugs and ports.   Most of the units are auto-sensing for that range.  Unfortunately they do not output 208v.  If you plug these into 208volt, they will output 220,230 or 240v.  So dont buy these if you have 208volt power.

The third type is 208/240v.  Here the UPS can be configured to accept 208v or 240v.  As I mentioned, 208v is common high voltage for commercial facilities, but 240volt is common high voltage in non commercial facilities and in your home (think your dryer).  Most newer APC units are setup 208/240volt.  In these units, the plugs and ports are NEMA twistlocks.

The final type is "universal high voltage."  In these systems, 208v, 220, 230, 240 are accepted.  The UPS auto-senses the voltage.  This format is found in most Tripplite and Powerware systems.

None of these systems step up or step down the power... they output the same as the input.

Below lists some common units for each type.

• 208volt only:  383 : 585 : tl593
• 220/230/240:   280ib : 593ig3 : 393ib
• 208/240v:  593g3 : sy16
• Universal: pw595 : tl393 : to1096

Awesome Alternatives to APC Units

While many customers are familiar with APC units, many times the other big guys offer better value or performance.

In a new series called, Awesome Alternatives, we explore some of these match ups.

The first in the series is the Powerware 1500 versus the SmartUPS 1500 unit

 versus 

Great ideas for Overseas Shipping

Here at GreenlightUPS we have seen an uptick in interest from people throughout the world looking to buy UPS units.  While normally, the heavy nature of UPS units makes it impossible to ship outside the country, being close to the port of Miami and Miami International Airport, allows some affordable options.

Our recommendation:
1) Buy Double Conversion/Online type UPS units, like the Powerware 2500va (at 36kg/74lbs) to keep the weight at a minimum
2) Buy at least 4 units to help defray the cost of shipping.
3) Get the unit to your country as cheap as possible and then use your local carrier to get it to your address.


Some examples:
Recently, a IT company in Bahrain needed some UPSes.  IQgloballogistics quoted 4 units from our Miami port to Bahrain for under $300.  Granted it took 44 days at sea, but it was very affordable.

A company in France needed two 10kva units. We first delivered the units to Miami Airport.  From there they flew Air France cargo to Paris for $218.    Then the customer arranged pickup from the airport to their address.   A rough cost of International Air cargo rates can be found here:    

A customer in Puerto Rico needed a 3000va unit.  In this case we took advantage of the heavily subsidized USPS service and shipped the unit is pieces.  150 total pounds for about $70.

Introducing the Black Label UPS

Our inventory guy is going crazy as we introduce another line of refurbished UPS units.  

On top of our Newy, Reseller Ready and Starter lines.... We now have launched our Black Label line.

Black Label UPSes are made with the best battery on the planet, Panasonic.  

Many years ago nearly every APC and Powerware unit came with Panasonic batteries standard.  But over time, price pressure has led APC to leave Panasonic for BB, Vision or Long John batteries.  Panasonic's state of the art manufacturing plants and impeccable manufacturing prowess means your UPS will have the best batteries for your mission critical applications.   

We have signed a commitment to buy 5,000 Panasonics in 2013 for our Black Label lines.  Over the next few weeks, we will be launching several products with the Black Label option.  Available on Symmetras, Dell, and APC SUA SmartUPS.

Check out the first two Black Label Units:   Dell Online 6000va and APC SUA 3000va.  Look for more Black Label products designated with a "A" at the end.

Best UPS for a

Its been almost a year since I answered.. What is the Best UPS to bring to deserted island?

While not practical, many people have commented that my straightforward approach to highlighting certain UPS features has been a reason they have chosen GreenlightUPS.

So if thats what the people want... here are some more....

Best UPS for those that drive Hummers:  

The 8U Tripplite 5000va unit with 3U power supply, 3U battery pack and 2U transformer makes this unit an impressive item in the rack.  At over 250lbs, with 16 output ports, and dual rack rail configuration this is a beast.  As a comparison, APC makes a 3U version that outputs essentially the same.




Best UPS if you server closet is a mess:  

The Powerware 9125 3000va 2U combines a a thin powerful UPS with 2 added features for tidyness.  First the unit has a 30amp dongle that sticks out of the UPS to connect to your PDU.  This frees up the back for regular outlets and keeps your critical PDU connection away from the backplate mess.  Second, at a mere 80 lbs, this unit is light enough that you can move or relocate the unit without help.  Since that "help" never seems to show up  or be available when its time to clean up the server room.


Best UPS for your home... and you don't need your dryer

The APC 5000va International edition can accept 240volt input.  Using your 30amp 240volt dryer plug this unit can provide all the power that ever would need for your home based server farm.  A remember, unlike that dryer, this UPS won't steal your sock.






Best UPS if you still use a ZipDrive

In this case you appreciate the retro look and the classic performance that comes with early computer manufacturing.  (you could do anything to those Zipdisks... whereas today's external harddrives seem to fail within a couple years).  Anyway, the Tripplite DataCenter 5000, called HAL by some, is UPS for you.  At over 200lbs without batteries, this solid iron core UPS will operate beyond the Infinite.

New Section for Network Cards

As you may have noticed we now have more than APC UPS units...

Since we have added a large listing of Powerware, Tripplite, Liebert and HP units, we have added the network cards that go with them.

We dont keep that many of these in stock, so be warned.  Backorders are likely.

Also condition varies considerably.  The prices listed are for nearly new, open, or surplus.  If we have a "used" one, expect to save an additional 33% off these prices

Shop here...

Most power per pound

We recently have been getting many requests from overseas and other far flung places like.. Tacoma, WA.  Invariably, everyone needs their UPSes quickly.  However, filled with iron core transformers and lead batteries, these units arent light or cheap to ship.  A recent inquiry asked for the most KVA for the smallest and lightest format.

So that got me thinking, what are the best buys per pound... The winners are:

1. APC 6000va 208v - 693G3 - 120lbs - 50va/lb
2. APC 10,000va 208v - 1096g3 - 244lbs - 41va/lb
3. Powerware 3000va 120v - pw312 - 81lb - 37va/lb
4. APC backUPS 800va 120v - br800 - 22lbs - 36va/lb

Cheap-O Deep-O :: Best Values at GreenLightUPS (LOW VOLTAGE RACK)

Looking for the best values across the many popular specs of UPSes?

Here they are.  While some are older units, others are just great values because of stock levels or buys.  All include new fresh batteries and our 15 month warranties.

Small Rack = the 402c for $227
APC's older cousin to the newer SUA1500RM2U, but at $75 cheaper... its a great buy


Mid Level Rack = the tl262 for $407
Tripplite makes a 2600va unit with extended run and tower or rack mounts.  Nobody thinks of a 2600va, but its a great buy.


3KVA workhorse = the hp312 for $417
A full powered 2U extended run unit with twistlock ports.  These modular units are an impressive buy for those who know that they were made by Powerware.  They look ugly, but for what you save, buy it a nice bow tie and call it a night.


Premium 120v Unit = the to312 for $577
WOW! -- 2U, Online, Extended Run.  We sold these for $799 last year.  This year we get a pallet of them and now the price cant be beat.



Remember, these are the weBob Blog's best bets... You will need call Bob 954-580-4070 or email to get these great deals.

Best Technical Blog Posts (de facto FAQs)

• Can I put a 15amp plug on a 3000va UPS?
• Are UPSes surge suppressors?
• 208, 220, 240 volt, I'm confused
• How do get a high voltage UPS for my home?
• What types of batteries do you use, are they the best?
• Should I choose 120v or 208v UPS, should I get 1 or 2?
• Can I get a UPS tomorrow or maybe today
• Whats better APC, Powerware, or Tripplite

Sizing UPSes for non computer loads

Sometimes, we get a request to suggest a UPS based on model numbers.  Other times we get specs or competing bids.  Then occasionally we get someone that knows just enough to be dangerous....

This guy wanted a UPS for his two computer controlled lathes.  The nameplate on each lathe motor was 9.5amps at 208volt.  So he asked for our APC 5000va UPS since the total VA or volt-amps was 3952.  Fortunately he shared his purpose before we shipped it to him.  Why?

a ) 19amp x 208volts is indeed 3952 volt amps, but that is based on FLA or full load amps.  Lathes have motors and have a startup amperage of 2-5 times the FLA that must be considered in the UPS
b)  the computer lathe had other components, not just the main motor.  Displays, servos, etc, dont take up too much power, but must be included in load calcs
c)  both motors could be starting at the same time, so its possible to have extended startup amperage.
d)  VA isnt the same as wattage. On non computer loads is very important to understand the factors that influence wattage.

So, I am pretty sure the 5000va unit would not have met his needs, because each unit probably demands 20amps to start, meaning 40amps potentially.

Our solution, was to a) get the real startup amperage using a MinMax multimeter {peak 14.6a}  b) sell him two 3000va ups units so as to limit the chance of dual startup and c) switch to Powerware UPS system since they often can handle 125% of load for a brief period.

Bottomline,  even if you have been told about a certain UPS, feel free to ask for our opinion.  We want you happy and your equipment working well.

First Newsletter for 2015 is out....

Right on schedule.... well maybe not right on schedule.... but close enough.

Our New Newsletter is filled with specials, tidbits, announcements, and fun..... "fun" is a probably a stretch

 A sneak peak:

UPS units delivered tomorrow... FirstLightUPS

UPS as a Service Page

Custom made cords and dongles Page

SPECIALS: $339 S&D APC 2200, APC 1500s from $199, 

Special Sale 1kva Powerware for $79 Free Ship

New Website Coming: Go UPS Go.com