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Hello John,
I have the same Mark Brown configuration, but without the TrippLite
Isobar surge suppressor, and have performed extensive
tests. When I cut the AC source and the inverter kicks in, the computers run perfectly, even when the load approaches
2000W. However, I do have to reboot my DSL modem and I do hear
harmonics from light bulbs connected to the system. Also, the flat panel
display momentarily turns off. Other than that, all the
electronics run perfectly.
I didn't order the TrippLite surge suppresser because of Tripplite's
FAQ section that had the following:
"Can I plug a surge suppressor into my PV or APS series inverter?
No. The surge suppressor may react to the PWM output as it would to
a surge and short-circuit the inverter. If you need more outlets use a
plain multi-outlet strip with no surge or noise suppression."
http://www.tripplite.com/support/faq/tech_inverter.cfm
Nevertheless, I later tried some good surge suppressors and they seem
to do nothing but make noise.
UPS models that require you to buy their non-standard batteries are
undesirable. Jury-rigging UPS models with standard 12V batteries can
shorten the life of those batteries.
-F
Thursday, November 20, 2003, 11:18:21 AM, you wrote:
JB> OK, ok. Here's my "contribution".
JB> There very well may be a crucial flaw in Mark's massive elec. backup system (opinion of Tripplite technician).
JB> Always having admired Mark's massive elec. backup system for his computers (images on his website), I started investigating the same for my own use.
JB> (Of course all we have to go on with his system is what we see in the images and the descriptions.)
JB> What I discovered: Apparently he is using a TrippLite inverter connected to a surge strip to power his system(s) 24/7/365. He has a massive bank of batteries to supply the inverter in case of
JB> power outage.
JB> I called and asked a Tripplite tech to take a look at the system on the web (a second level up tech). His comments ? Beyond the electronic rocket science stuff he started with that I did not
JB> understand, he said that Mark's system is essentially different than your standard UPS system.
JB> This is because a standard UPS system supplies perfect sinewave 120 v power most all the time taking the power from the uitility company, and only rarely does the UPS kick in with batteries to
JB> provide modified sine wave power for short periods.
JB> On the other hand, as the images show Mark's system pulls modified sine wave power from the inverter 24/7/365. According to the tech, he said that it's iffy at best, that you have to consult the
JB> power supply manufacturers in your computers to be certain they approve. It's because even modified sine wave starts breaking down under heavier loads (like during an extended power outage), and
JB> then it becomes more like square wave, which can cook your computer power supply transformers, etc. Even if not loaded hard, modified sine wave still produces some pretty nasty harmonics that
JB> can mess with your electronics.
JB> The safer solution ? For a few dollars more you buy the Tripplite Smart Online SU series which produce a 24/7/365 perfect sine wave whether on battery power or on 120 volt utility co. power. Then
JB> you just add an external battery source as those do allow that. (This is what I just bought).
JB> http://www.tripplite.com/products/product.cfm?productID=2664
JB> They come in larger sizes if you need 'em.
JB> Anyway, that's my 2 cents.
JB> John
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