As someone managing a small office with a mix of Windows PCs and Unix servers, I’ve been exploring ways to optimize our UPS setup. Historically, we’ve relied on SmartUPS units with network management cards, which have been reliable but are now aging out. The challenge is finding a cost-effective solution that meets our specific needs without overcomplicating things.
Currently, we use several SmartUPS units to handle our power management, but replacing them has become prohibitively expensive. The newer models come with features we don’t need, like environmental monitoring and SNMP, which drives up the cost. Plus, the PowerChute software hasn’t been ideal for our setup—it doesn’t support our Unix boxes and is too Windows-centric for our liking.
What we’re really looking for is a simpler, more affordable solution. Units with the capabilities of a BackUPS Pro but with the added benefit of a network interface would be perfect. They don’t currently exist, but I’m curious if others have found workarounds or alternative vendors that offer similar functionality. Has anyone successfully integrated a mix of UPS brands or found a way to extend the life of older units?
I’m also interested in hearing about anyone who’s managed a similar environment. Are there enough small offices with high-end needs that don’t require the full SmartUPS feature set? It seems like a niche but potentially significant market. Any insights or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!