So, do active PFC PSU really require a pure sine wave UPS?

144HzGamer

Junior Member
Aug 27, 2013
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Title pretty much says it all, I'm in the market for a UPS, and from what I can tell, active PFC PSU's require a pure sine wave UPS to work properly, but unfortunately, where I live I can't find a single UPS with pure sine wave, just non pure sine wave ones.

Thanks.
 

fleshconsumed

Diamond Member
Feb 21, 2002
6,486
2,363
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No they do not. I have several computers with active PFC on a simulated sine wave UPS and they all work fine when the power goes out.

I have read that using pure sine wave results in greater efficiency/lower power draw/easier on the ups/computer, but I have no idea if it's true or not. However, even if it is true, they still work together.
 

smitbret

Diamond Member
Jul 27, 2006
3,382
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No they do not. I have several computers with active PFC on a simulated sine wave UPS and they all work fine when the power goes out.

I have read that using pure sine wave results in greater efficiency/lower power draw/easier on the ups/computer, but I have no idea if it's true or not. However, even if it is true, they still work together.

My experience exactly.

I have heard that it decreases the battery life in the UPS as well; you end replacing them in like 3-4 years instead of 5-10. Dunno though, only been on this type of setup for a year and a half.
 

Meghan54

Lifer
Oct 18, 2009
11,684
5,225
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My experience, too. I've used power supplies with active PFC of several brands from several OEM's with sim'd sine wave UPS's and have yet to have one not function.
 

bryanl

Golden Member
Oct 15, 2006
1,157
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I have read that some early model power supplies with APFC contained components not rated to handle the very highest voltage peaks of the stepped sinewaves.