ABSTRACT
The data center manager should have a thorough knowledge of the battery system used to ensure optimum performance. This chapter provides general guidelines for and information about uninterruptible power supply (UPS) batteries; however, standards vary among battery types and manufacturers. The manufacturer's specifications should be viewed as the final authority for any UPS battery system. Battery size, life, capacity, watering frequency, maintenance, load duration, and operating environment are all considerations when selecting a battery. A battery is necessary to support the UPS system and maintain power while the generator activates. The UPS batteries must support that load long enough for the backup generator to come online or for personnel to perform an orderly shutdown of the computer. Battery life is an important consideration when selecting a battery system. After selecting the appropriate battery, the data center manager may be responsible for determining what maintenance activities are necessary to ensure uptime.
