UPS for Mac Pro question

[strausd]

Hey, I am planning on getting a 2010 Mac Pro right when they come out and have been doing a lot of research on all the different things people use with theirs. I started looking at UPS's and think that it may be a good investment for such an expensive machine. I am currently looking at an APC 1500 and am wondering if anyone has this and likes it or dislikes it. The one thing I noticed is that there is no software/firmware for this for Mac, only pc. If anyone has any other UPS suggestions feel free to share them

 

[KeriJane]

Hello.

There's a whole thread on this subject nearby. Just scroll down a little when viewing the "Mac Pro, Power Mac" category.

But to answer your questions:

The Mac Pro comes with Snow Leopard. Both Leopard and Snow Leopard have UPS software built in that is compatible with APC units.
It's not as comprehensive as APC's own software but works fine.

You have picked an adequate size unit from a reputable manufacturer. However, it is the cheaper "simulated sine wave" BackUPS.
Personally, I prefer (for reasons stated in the other thread) APC's Pure Sine Wave SmartUPS models like the SUA1500.

There is a lot of heated debate regarding brand, size and sine wave / simulated sine wave preferences.
My opinion: You get what you pay for. If you're buying a Mac Pro, don't get all cheap on the UPS.
The SmartUPS models are built like tanks.

Have Fun,
Keri

 

[nanofrog]

strausd, the unit you linked is the bare minimum I'd recommend, but you'd be better off with one of the APC SUA units (SUA = SmartUPS line).

If you do go with the cheaper one, you need to get a good surge suppressor (~4k Joules) to go with it (wall to UPS), as the surge suppression in the BR1500LCD (what you linked), is insufficient (~400 Joules - way too little).

It will work, but don't expect it to last like the SUA series (replace batteries, but the units will last for some time; 10yrs isn't uncommon in a high lightning zone in my experience).

 

[strausd]

I realize that it's probably one of the low end ones but I am on a very tight budget and would rather put as much money into the MP than into the UPS. Is there any other good one at a reasonable price someone can suggest?

 

[gotzero]

Whatever you do, do NOT install PowerChute software. APC does not recommend it, and it will more or less keep one of your cores running at 100% 24/7.

 

[nanofrog]

I realize that it's probably one of the low end ones but I am on a very tight budget and would rather put as much money into the MP than into the UPS. Is there any other good one at a reasonable price someone can suggest?

On a constrained budget, the BR1500LCD is the best option IMO. You can start here for a little better pricing, or even look for a refurbished or open box unit.

 

[ThisAintJoe]

strausd, the unit you linked is the bare minimum I'd recommend, but you'd be better off with one of the APC SUA units (SUA = SmartUPS line).

If you do go with the cheaper one, you need to get a good surge suppressor (~4k Joules) to go with it (wall to UPS), as the surge suppression in the BR1500LCD (what you linked), is insufficient (~400 Joules - way too little).

It will work, but don't expect it to last like the SUA series (replace batteries, but the units will last for some time; 10yrs isn't uncommon in a high lightning zone in my experience).

I completely agree with nanofrog and I want to take it a step further. Save yourself the aggrevation, save yourself the time and money and buy yourself a proper SUA unit.


The BR's, the CS's, the LS's are not as good and they won't provide you as much protection as the SUA's. You'll buy it, install it, then you'll realize it won't do what it's supposed to and then you'll need to spend time to try and return it and get the right unit.


Save yourself the aggravation and buy a good unit right away. The protection they offer is much better and you won't regret it. People spend fortunes on expensive computer equipment but cheapen out when it comes to power protection. Does that make sense?

 

[diazj3]

I completely agree with nanofrog and I want to take it a step further. Save yourself the aggrevation, save yourself the time and money and buy yourself a proper SUA unit..... The protection they offer is much better and you won't regret it. People spend fortunes on expensive computer equipment but cheapen out when it comes to power protection.

+1 for the SUA vs the BR. The more money and work you put into your MP, the more better protection becomes mandatory.

Cheers,