APC introduces modular "building block" UPS for network datacenters

New Matrix UPS at a glance: 
* Hot-swappable components deliver 100% uptime, 
  60% lower operating costs 
* Features SmartCells, microprocessor-controlled battery packs
*  SNMP support and multiple server shutdown 
* Solves harmonic overload problems at large corporate sites

May 15, 1993 -- (W. KINGSTON, RI) Taking a page from redundant data storage
designs, American Power Conversion has announced its Matrix series of
high-performance Uninterruptible Power Supplies which feature a modular
RAID-like design.

Sized for multiple server and midrange system protection, the new
line-interactive units are available in both 3000 Volt-Amps and 5000
Volt-Amp units.

"In many existing mid-sized UPSes, a small internal failure can bring down
the whole UPS, which then brings down all of the loads," said Aaron Davis,
Director of Marketing Communications.

"Matrix solves this problem with a completely modular design. Component
failures are isolated to their 'block' which can be quickly diagnosed and
cost-effectively swapped-out using Federal Express or similar overnight
courier, even while the protected system is still up and running," he
said.

"Beyond its superior reliability, this modular approach also delivers
lifetime costs half that of competitive brands," said Davis.

For applications requiring extended runtime, additional SmartCell battery
packs can be quickly and cost-effectively added.

The Matrix Series is expected to ship in the second quarter of 1993.
Suggested US list prices for the Matrix 3000 and 5000 are $3499 and $5199
respectively.

Hot-swappable modularity means 100% uptime... 

"A basic Matrix unit is made up of an isolation module with a mean time to
failure of approximately 99 years, an electronics module with a MTTF af
about six years, and external SmartCell packs with lifetimes of about six
years," said Davis.

"Unlike conventional UPS designs in which the load is at the mercy of a
battery with a three year lifespan, Matrix moves the weak link to the
isolation unit, effectively increasing expected MTTF to 99 years," said
Davis.

The modular design of the Matrix product line allows the unit to be safely
swapped-out or repaired on-site by an untrained employee without
interrupting power to the loads. This reduces Mean Time to Repair (MTTR)
from a matter of days or weeks to a matter of seconds.

Hot swappable SmartCell batteries increase uptime and reduce costs compared
to conventional UPS batteries...

A small microprocessor in each SmartCell automatically monitors the
operation of the battery and warns the system manager of any
irregularities. Replace SmartCell warnings are delivered via the front
control panel, via local alerts on each SmartCell, and via monitoring
software.

In many other UPS products, the batteries are connected in series: when one
battery fails all are rendered useless, often without warning. Replacing a
dead battery often means replacing the whole battery string.

Matrix' SmartCell battery packs are connected in parallel for maximum
security. If a SmartCell needs replacing, users can simply disconnect the
failed pack and replace it with a new SmartCell, a simple process which is
dramatically less expensive than replacing an entire string each time one
battery fails.

An additional benefit of Matrix' modular design is long battery life.
Unlike traditional designs where the batteries are packaged in the same
enclosure with heat dissipating circuits such as the battery charger and
inverter, the SmartCell has the advantage of longer life due to room
temperature operation. With a typical lifetime of about six years,
originally purchased SmartCells may need replacement only once during the
UPS's service life, while other hot-running UPS designs may require two or
three battery replacements in the same time period,

With mast midrange UPSes, battery replacement is neither quick nor easy,
often requiring trained service personnel or an electrician. Heavy
batteries must be delivered to the site using special shipping methods.
Safe methods of disposal must be followed. Mean time to repair can last
hours, days, or weeks.

In contrast, a SmartCell module replacement can be performed by anyone in
seconds. SmartCell modules can be shipped directly on-site using a common
carrier such as United Parcel Service. The worn modules may be simply
returned to APC using the shipping materials in which the replacement
modules were received.

"In effect, Federal Express or any similar delivery service take the place
of an expensive battery service contract," said Davis. "Network managers
don't have to deal with headaches of environmentally-safe battery
replacement and disposal. Just sand them back to APC."

The SmartCell replacement date may be stored in the UPS's memory for future
reference via the remote interface or by the front panel controls,
providing systems managers with ongoing peace of mind despite staff
turnover.

Moreover, with Matrix, users no longer have to purchase "all or nothing"
extended run battery packs. Each modular SmartCell battery pack provides
an additional 12 minutes of run time (at half load) per pack, allowing
users to purchase only as much run time they need.

Matrix modularity means low lifecycle costs...

"Matrix has a much smaller footprint and is half the weight of competitive
products," said Davis. "Instead of the weeks of production delay
associated with competitive units, Matrix can be delivered by overnight
express the day after an order is placed. Its modular design is a true
plug and play solution previously unseen in this size segment."

For greater reliability, the Matrix line-interactive power path contains
approximately one-third the components as that of- competitive on-line
products. Moreover, there is no need to oversize the UPS to plan for
inrush current, so users pay for only the power rating they need.

Matrix is 93% efficient at full load, while traditional double conversion
online products are only 75% to 80% efficient. Traditional systems
generate excessive heat which not only reduces battery life but, in many
cases, creates a need for special air conditioning systems.

"With increasing conservation concerns and an energy tax looming, UPS
efficiency is an often overlooked but critical aspect of UPS performance,"
said Davis. "For example, over its lifetime, a 5Kva Matrix may cost
approximately $900 in electricity to run, while popular competitive bands
approach $3000. Matrix' high efficiency means minimal wasted energy,
dramatically reduced lifetime costs, and long battery life."

"Another important area of contrast is service contract costs," said Davis.
"While competitive units often demand service contracts upwards of $1000,
Matrix is a zero maintenance solution. In fact, thanks to its network and
SNMP compatibility, network managers can use Matrix to actually reduce
support costs through remote monitoring of their file servers .

Circuit-breaker based overload protection means no searching for
replacement fuses, which may require frequent replacement in conventional
UPSs.

Matrix units are also "designed for downsizing," said Davis.

"Unlike competitive UPSs that can't deliver full rated load in either 120
or 208, Matrix gives users 100% of capacity in either 120, 208 or any
mixture of each. So as 208V midrange users move to 120V LANs, there's no
need to call the UPS factory for an expensive upgrade," said Davis.

"We go one step further by providing upgradeable plug options which can be
easily swapped as equipment needs change." said Davis.

Matrix can also be programmed to output 120, 220, 230, or 240 VAC, easing
the specification process for large multi-national companies and users who
may need to move equipment from country to country.

Matrix solves the power problems of the '90s...

"A growing problem at large corporate sites is the insidious danger of
harmonic overloads," said Davis. "Matrix's isolated design eliminates
overloaded neutral fire hazards as PC installed base grows."

Unlike many popular UPS products, the Matrix line eliminates the danger of
overloaded neutral conductors caused by modern computer power supplies by
of f loading the dangerous harmonics to the robust hot phases of the
distribution system.

In addition, FineLine microprocessor-based voltage regulation adapts to
corporate site characteristics. Building intelligence into the voltage
regulator allows Matrix to outperform older UPS designs with no sacrifice
of reliability. Using its FineLine adaptive mode, Matrix learns the power
characteristics of the site, then models its transfer behavior to maximize
user protection and minimize unnecessary battery usage.

"Just as fileservers deliver more MIPS at lower costs than their midrange
and mainframe counterparts, Matrix' intelligence allows it to offer much
more value and usefulness than the 'brute force' large, dumb UPS systems
currently inhabiting many data centers," said Davis.

The Matrix product line is fully compatible with APC's PowerChute family of
power management software for virtually all network operating systems on
the market, including NetWare, OS/400, VAX/VMS, OS/2 and more.

"Matrix is specifically designed for multiple server use," said Davis. "For
instance, using a 'master/slave' approach, Matrix and PowerChute enables
all 'slave' servers attached to the 'master' UPS/server combination to
receive automatic safe shutdown commands, dramatically curtailing
interface costs and cabling headaces.

In addition, Matrix supports Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) via
APC's SNMP Adapter, delivering warnings regarding power events and UPS
status to any NMS whether the Matrix unit is located 20 feet or 2000 miles
away.

Using its password-protected control panel (viewable in four languages),
Matrix tracks important power quality status and events, including
blackouts, brownouts, line frequency and temperature. This information can
also be delivered to network management consoles via APC's PowerChute
software.

Using the optional internal modem (available Q3 1993), Matrix will notify
systems managers under a variety of circumstances, such as power events or
system failure. In addition, the modem can be configured to power-up
systems via phone.

"Matrix's diagnostics are based on real-life, unit-specific history, not
theoretical models," said Davis.

UPS systems with "run time meters" often base their predictions on a static
model which does not take into account discharge duty, age of the
batteries, etc. In contrast, Matrix incorporates an artificial
intelligence model that tracks a complete history of UPS discharge cycles
so that battery capacity can be calculated with a much higher degree of
accuracy. The run time meter is recalibrated with each discharge cycle for
increased accuracy.

New Matrix offers a self test after turn-on, and programmable self-tests
via APC's PowerChute software, but may also be set to test itself
automatically at 7 or 14 day intervals for maximum peace of mind.

American Power Conversion
PO Box 278
132 Fairgrounds Rd
West Kingston, RI 02892
401-789-5735;  fax: 401-789-3710

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