The APC Smart UPS can provide backup power for critical equipment like an unRAID Media Server. At full load, this uninterruptible power supply (UPS) can provide 11.7 minutes of backup power with an output voltage of 120 volts. While this is already sufficient for some users, others may want to increase the time the UPS can provide backup power. This can be done by changing the settings of the UPS to allow it to use two external battery packs.
There are two ways to do this:
1. The PowerChute Business Edition can be used to make the necessary changes in the settings. It will be necessary to connect the UPS to a Windows-powered PC through a USB cable to use this UPS management software in changing the settings.
Once the UPS is connected to the PC, the Configuration menu of the PowerChute Business Edition should be accessed. Then the “UPS Operating Parameters” is selected. The appropriate number of external battery packs to use can be typed on the “External Battery Pack” field before clicking on “OK.”
2. Aside from using the PowerChute Business Edition, the settings on the number of battery packs to use can also be changed using a Network Management Card. The Network Management Card can monitor and manage the UPS. At ExcessUPS, brand new Network Management Cards have a warranty period of two years. On the other hand, refurbished Network Management Cards have a one-year warranty with the option to purchase a three-year warranty.
References:
http://www.apcmedia.com/salestools/ASTE-6Z5QEV/ASTE-6Z5QEV_R58_EN.pdf?sdirect=true
http://www.apc.com/us/en/faqs/FA156515/
http://www.apc.com/us/en/faqs/FA284198/