Like many of you, I also hopped in free APC BackUPS-300 deal @ staples. I tried to connect it into computer through serial port, but it turns out it requires special wiring to do so. I did little web search and found this.
Here's the cabling diagram for UPS serial cables. (APC BackUPS-300 needs PN 940-0020B, simple(basic) signaling, NOT smart signaling cable)
Nullmodem.com UPS Serial Diagram
You can download APC Parachute software for free. It's available for Win9x, Win2K, and also LINUX systems.
APC Software Download
Basically, what it does is when the power is gone, UPS signals to the system and it will do whatever it is assigned to do. (usually shutdown the system to prevent further damage.)
So, to use computer connectivity, you don't have to order expensive serial kit from APC. Just grab any serial cables hanging around (all USB's make them obsolete), fix the connection, install the software (if you are using Win2K, you don't even need any software. It's supported by Win2k) and Voila! You've got it. I think serial connection is better than USB in UPS case, since they are more reliable in some sense. (if computer loses the power, it's possible that USB-serial converter can loss its functionality, since its power's from either M/B or USB hub.)
By the way, the cabling is industrial standard. Most cheap UPS which has serial port uses simple(basic) signaling cable.
Also, I've been told that you can use CAR BATTERIES with these UPS', which might give you much longer life. Search usenet with keyword "apc ups", there are several talks related to it. (actually some people do so.) Replacement battery from APC's more expensive than UPS itself. (because we have it for FREE!
)
Here's the cabling diagram for UPS serial cables. (APC BackUPS-300 needs PN 940-0020B, simple(basic) signaling, NOT smart signaling cable)
Nullmodem.com UPS Serial Diagram
You can download APC Parachute software for free. It's available for Win9x, Win2K, and also LINUX systems.
APC Software Download
Basically, what it does is when the power is gone, UPS signals to the system and it will do whatever it is assigned to do. (usually shutdown the system to prevent further damage.)
So, to use computer connectivity, you don't have to order expensive serial kit from APC. Just grab any serial cables hanging around (all USB's make them obsolete), fix the connection, install the software (if you are using Win2K, you don't even need any software. It's supported by Win2k) and Voila! You've got it. I think serial connection is better than USB in UPS case, since they are more reliable in some sense. (if computer loses the power, it's possible that USB-serial converter can loss its functionality, since its power's from either M/B or USB hub.)
By the way, the cabling is industrial standard. Most cheap UPS which has serial port uses simple(basic) signaling cable.
Also, I've been told that you can use CAR BATTERIES with these UPS', which might give you much longer life. Search usenet with keyword "apc ups", there are several talks related to it. (actually some people do so.) Replacement battery from APC's more expensive than UPS itself. (because we have it for FREE!
)
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