Does a UPS need a driver nowadays?

[yehuda]

Hi,

I'm about to buy a UPS to complement a new build. I haven't used one before, which may explain the odd nature of this question.

Anyway, does anyone know what's the current state of OS support for these devices? Does it matter which brand you buy (e.g. APC vs. others), and which interface it uses (RS-232 vs. USB)?

I would imagine a UPS would be supported out of the box with a class-wide driver, much like a serial or USB mouse is, being that the UPS<->PC communication protocol is probably as simple and as generic as it can get, but I haven't been able to verify that. All web material seems to center on support for APC-made devices, and here the UPS tab in Windows' Power Options panel exclusively lists APC models. But what about other brands? I probably won't be buying from APC. Does it mean I'd have to load a resident third-party application to support automatic shutdown?

Any insight would be welcome. Thanks.

 

[vailr]

Windows includes a built-in UPS Service, but downloading the maker's software gives extra battery monitoring features.
USB is faster than an RS-232 connectiion.
Summary: Go with USB and use the manufacturer's software.
I've had good luck with a Belkin UPS; APC or Tripplite would also be good choices.

 

[yehuda]

It's ok, all I really need is the basic functionality of having the system shut down if I'm not around, but I'm glad to hear the software works well for you. From your experience, is the built-on UPS service compatible with all models?

 

[yehuda]

Btw, here's the model I'm eyeing:

http://www.advicepower.com/r_p...ctDetails.aspx?PID=630

It has a neat readout on the front, so one can learn about the battery's level straight from the horse's mouth.

 

[aigomorla]

it requires a drive if you want your system to shut down when theres a power outtage.

If you use it as a stand alone, it will shut down when the battery runs out, but that would kill the point in the UPS.

If your using it for different reasons, like im using it for browns more then the backup feature, then i dont se the point in addign drivers unless you want the backup and emergency aspect of it.

For me its the clean power a ups gives expecially during a brown.

 

[LOUISSSSS]

i also vote for getting an APC UPS and installing their powerchute software

 

[bob4432]

Originally posted by: LOUISSSSS
i also vote for getting an APC UPS and installing their powerchute software

i too echo this opinion. nothing but good luck w/ apc and been using them for a long time - probaby 8+yrs or so

 

[LOUISSSSS]

thats great to know. This bx1300lcd is the first real ups i got

 

[aigomorla]

Originally posted by: LOUISSSSS
thats great to know. This bx1300lcd is the first real ups i got

all my machines have a ups on them.

Expecially my quads, LCD TVs, monitors.


a long time ago, i worked at circuit city during college for a sidejob. I saw too many accidents with brown shorts to haunt me if i dont put a ups on an expensive machine.

 

[Amaroque]

Another vote for APC here. Another vote for Powerchute as well.

 

[Roguestar]

If UPS don't have drivers they'll crash all over the place and people will start using FedEx.

 

[caivoma]

Originally posted by: Roguestar
If UPS don't have drivers they'll crash all over the place and people will start using FedEx.

nowai....

 

[Rubycon]

Originally posted by: Roguestar
If UPS don't have drivers they'll crash all over the place and people will start using FedEx.

Or they crash into each other and everyone will become fedups.

Most small UPS' can be connected to a PC and the UPS service will act like the PC is battery powered. You can set up hibernate after a few minutes. This way if there's a power outage while you're away with programs running/documents open, nothing is lost when power is restored!

 

[Amaroque]

Originally posted by: Roguestar
If UPS don't have drivers they'll crash all over the place and people will start using FedEx.

UPS don't have drivers... That's why I use FedEx!