Interactive UPS and online UPS: Which is best for your business in Mexico?

In a business environment, maintaining operational continuity and protecting electrical equipment is key to avoiding financial losses, damage to critical infrastructure, or service interruptions. To achieve this, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems are indispensable allies. However, not all UPSs offer the same level of protection or are designed for the same uses.

In the Mexican market, there are two main technologies: interactive UPS and online UPS. While interactive UPS are a basic solution ideal for homes or non-critical applications—such as a personal computer, a small freezer, or a modest security system—online UPS are designed for business environments where continuous, high-performance protection is required. Choosing the right one depends on the criticality of the equipment and the type of operation you want to protect.

What is an interactive UPS and how does it work?

An interactive UPS, also known as a line-interactive UPS, is a system designed to provide basic protection for connected equipment against power outages. This type of UPS includes an automatic voltage stabilizer, surge suppressor, and interference suppressor (STSI), a battery bank, an AC/DC battery charger, and a DC/AC inverter.

During normal operation, power is supplied directly from the mains, while the interactive UPS monitors and regulates small voltage fluctuations. In the event of a power outage, the inverter automatically activates, supplying power from the batteries at the appropriate voltage and frequency. It is important to note that the inverter only turns on when there is an outage, with a transfer time ranging from 2 ms to 8 ms.

What is an online UPS and how does it work?

An online UPS, also known as a double conversion UPS, operates on a fundamentally different principle, as the input power from the AC mains is first converted to DC by a rectifier, and this DC power continuously feeds both the battery and the inverter. The inverter, in turn, creates a new clean and regulated AC power output that feeds the load constantly.

The main advantage of an online UPS is that the load is always powered by the inverter, regardless of the quality or presence of the mains supply. In the event of a power failure, there is no transfer time, as power is already flowing from the battery through the inverter.

Interactive UPS vs online UPS: comparison of protection, energy efficiency, and operating costs

With the above descriptions of the difference between interactive and online UPSs, you can understand what each system does. However, it is important to compare the two in order to understand what each cannot offer in relation to the other. For example:

If you would like to learn more about the differences in design and power flow between an interactive UPS and an online UPS, please click here.

Interactive and online UPS: which is best for your type of load and electrical equipment?

The interactive UPS is ideal for non-critical loads, such as personal computers, workstations, and small office equipment, where a brief interruption does not cause significant damage. Its cost-benefit ratio makes it attractive for applications where budget is an important consideration and the quality of the power supply is relatively stable.

On the other hand, an online UPS is the right system for mission-critical applications, such as data centers, medical facilities, financial systems, and sensitive industrial equipment, where the quality and continuity of the power supply are essential.

How to choose between an interactive or online UPS for your business in Mexico?

The decision between an interactive UPS and an online UPS will depend on a detailed analysis of your company’s specific needs in the context of the Mexican electrical environment. Remember to review the performance and safety requirements for all electronic equipment or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems established by the NMX-I-163-NYCE-2016 standard. Additionally, some key factors to consider are:

1. Criticality of the load: identify the equipment and processes whose interruption would have the greatest impact on the company’s operations and finances.
2. Sensitivity to electrical disturbances: evaluate the tolerance of equipment to power outages, voltage fluctuations, and electrical noise.
3. Quality of the local power supply: consider the frequency and severity of electrical problems in the company’s geographical area.
4. Budget: analyze the initial investment and long-term operating costs of both technologies.
5. Autonomy requirements: determine the backup time required in the event of a prolonged power failure.
6. Scalability: consider whether your energy protection needs may increase in the future.

Finally, keep in mind that there are companies with the necessary experience and certification to advise you on the best course of action for your company if you are looking to improve the energy efficiency of your operations. At Industronic, we can answer your questions. Contact us!