An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) provides constant power to a computer system when a power fluctuation or power loss occurs. Built-in electronics constantly monitor line voltages: if the line voltage fluctuates above or below predefined limits, or fails entirely, the UPS supplies power to the computer system from built-in batteries. The UPS converts the direct current (DC) battery voltage into the alternating current (AC) voltage required by the computer system. The change to batteries must take place very rapidly to prevent data loss.
Most UPS devices are one of the following types:
Use only UPS hardware that is included on the Windows 2000 HCL. Other options to consider include:
For robust resistance to power failures, use UPS hardware connected to the computer and software that handles power failures, including shutting down the system before the UPS batteries are depleted. Without such software, human intervention is needed to shut down the system.
Windows 2000 has built-in UPS functionality that takes advantage of the features included with many UPS systems, such as ensuring the integrity of data on the system by providing for an orderly shutdown of the computer system if a power failure lasts long enough to deplete the UPS batteries. In addition, users connected to a computer running Windows 2000 Server can be notified that a shutdown will occur, and new users are prevented from connecting. Finally, damage to the hardware from a sudden, uncontrolled shutdown can be prevented.
Some vendors also provide a user interface for configuring the UPS, which you can use instead of the one provided in Windows 2000.
To fully protect your network, you also need to install a UPS on network devices such as routers, hubs, and bridges. For the best protection, install UPS systems on the cables that connect your computer to your modem, telephone, printer, and network equipment. Most UPS systems have built-in surge protection.
In Control Panel, click Power Options to configure the Windows 2000 UPS service.
To configure the UPS service in Windows 2000
The remaining information depends upon your specific UPS and its use.
When selecting the signals to use in the UPS Configuration group box, the interface voltages indicate the active state for the signal. For example, if you select a negative interface voltage for the power failure signal, the normally positive signal becomes negative when a power failure occurs.
Use the following procedure to configure the Windows 2000 UPS service to run a command file when a power failure occurs.
To configure the UPS service in Windows 2000 to run a command file when a power failure occurs
Note
The command file must reside in
© 1985-2000 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.