Analysing Your Power Needs

Vulnerability to power problems can only be prevented through power protection analysis.

When evaluating the potential threat of power problems in an environment, the following areas need to be reviewed:

1. TELECOMMUNICATION LINES
   Telecommunication lines are used in transmitting messages, as by telegraph, cable, telephone, radio, or television. These can include telephone, ISDN, PSTN and ADSL.

2. DATALINE
   Datalines are used in computer networks, PLC and factory environments to transmit data from one place to another. These can include RJ45 (CAT 5) Computernet, RS232 and RS485.

3. POWERLINE
   Powerline cables are used to distribute electricity. They can include single phase low or high voltage and 3-phase high voltage.

4. DIRECT STRIKE
   Direct strikes occur as a result of a thunderstorm or electrical activity. They can affect structures, landmarks, buildings and prominent features.

Power related problems cost time and money. Even a small problem can cause huge interruptions to work progress and business continuity. Large problems can cause permanent disruption – time, money, loss of data – and the amount of damage is difficult to quantify.

SUMMARY OF PRODUCT TYPES

UPS SYSTEM

An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) protects equipment from a loss in the mains power supply. UPS systems have an internal backup battery which provides power to equipment for a period of time until the equipment can be safely closed down or the mains power is returned.

SURGE PROTECTOR/DIVERTER

A surge protector/diverter is designed to protect equipment from an over voltage or surge. It can be softwired (ie plugged in) or hardwired to electrical switchboards.

SURGE POWER FILTER

A surge power filter provides the same protection as a surge protector/diverter. In addition, it provides protection from extensive high frequency and noise filtering.

POWER CONDITION/TRANSFORMER

A power conditioner/transformer is used to regulate the power supply and smooth out the highs and lows in power. It is designed to isolate surges, spikes and power irregularities.

COMMUNICATION LINE PROTECTION

Communication lines can incorporate cat5 RJ45 cable (to connect computer systems), and RS232 + RS485 cable (for PLC and factory driven communication). A communication line protection device, placed at either end of a cable, will protect lines from lightning and other induced problems.