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Features
The S20BLK Power Conditioner’s major features are described in the following
paragraphs.
Communications and Management
A universal serial bus (USB) port, RS-232 port, and Network Management Card
(embedded Web server) provide multiple methods for monitoring and managing the
S20BLK, and the equipment connected to it. For example, unit installers can
integrate the S20BLK into any home automation network, and “hung” devices can
be rebooted from a remote location. The following subparagraphs describe the
capabilities of each of the methods, how to best utilize each method, and where to
obtain more detailed information.
Note: The input contact and output relay features listed on the UPS Network
Card Environment Web page do not apply to the S20BLK.
Universal Serial Bus
The universal serial bus (USB) port is located on the S20BLK rear panel, and
enables the unit to communicate with the APC PowerChute
® Personal Edition
software. When it is installed on an MS Windows or Mac desktop computer, the
software automatically saves open files, and gracefully shuts down the operating
system if a sustained power outage occurs, and the batteries run down. Unit and
power diagnostic information is also provided, plus the software provides a way of
adjusting unit operating parameters such as transfer voltage points, and sensitivity.
The APC PowerChute
® Personal Edition software can be installed and used by
connecting the USB cable, which is supplied with the unit, to the USB port on the
S20BLK rear panel, and to a USB port on your computer. Insert the PowerChute
®
CD into your computers CD-ROM drive, and follow the directions on the screen. A
detailed PowerChute
® Personal Edition User Manual is provided on the CD-ROM.
RS-232
A DB-9 RS-232 port is located on the S20BLK rear panel, and is convenient for
communicating with the S20BLK, such as when programmers of home automation
devices want to integrate the S20BLK into their home automation networks. The
S20BLK communicates using a proprietary UPSLink protocol that uses ASCII
characters to transmit data to and receive data from the unit. The UPSLink protocol
provides users with maximum monitoring and control, including the ability to:
remotely reboot individual outlet banks, make adjustments to all S20BLK settings,
and read ambient temperature values.
Users who want to use the UPSLink to integrate the S20BLK into their network
should first read APC Application Note # 102 at www.apc.com. Creston and AMX
installers should visit their respective Web sites for information concerning how to
integrate the S20BLK into their networks.