Re: UPS software

[Daniel Freedman <freedman@ccmr.cornell.edu>]

Mark,

I have a APC SmartUPS 1000Net and 1250 and both have served me very
well.  While APC used to not release any drivers (actually more like
software than kernel drivers) for linux, they now not only release
software, they do so (for much of it at least) under the GPL.  Please
see:

http://www.apcc.com/go/machine/partners/open_source.cfm

(They're even kind enough not to make you register...  They say:
"Download requires registration. If you are not comfortable
registering to download the...source code, enter user id: opensource
and password: opensource on the subsequent login page.)

Also here's their main powerchute software (don't run it, try debian
package 'nut' instead, so I don't know how redhat specific it is,
although this version must be easier than the specific RPM one.):

ftp://ftp.apcftp.com/software/unix/linux/pcplus/453/pcplus_453_redhat.tar

If that ftp doesn't work, try the main link to this software:
http://www.apc.com/tools/download/sw_kit.cfm?sku=sdw64

I don't know anything about Best to recommend for or against, but as
far as where to get very good quality refurbished UPS's (with NEW
batteries), I've had great success with PEI at www.4ups.net (they're
also at 4ups.com, but that website is more annoying).  Standard
Disclaimer: I'm not affiliated with PEI in any way.

Hope this helps and take care,

Daniel



On Fri, Dec 07, 2001, mdevin@ozemail.com.au wrote:
> I am looking at purchasing a UPS and trying to decide between APC and
> Best (Invensys).  Best apparently used to release their source code for
> their unix driver - which is a big plus.  But this is no longer the
> case.  Best provides binary versions of drivers for linux which is good.
> Apparently APC doesn't provide drivers for linux - but there are reverse
> engineered ones (with source code).
>
> So basically I am after some advice regarding the experiences of others.
> I will probably get a 750VA unit for my home server and would prefer to
> have access to source code even if the program is not as "flash".
>
> Any recommendations / experiences welcome.
>
> Regards.
> Mark.

-- 
Daniel A. Freedman
Laboratory for Atomic and Solid State Physics
Department of Physics
Cornell University