Jump to content
C4 Forums | Control4

Rack keeps cycling when generator runs during power outage.


Domenic

Recommended Posts

I have had my control 4 rack system for over 4 years. During the first 2-3 years, the system worked perfectly when generator turned on during a power outage. But since then, the system continually cycles on and off when generator runs. I have had the system and generator checked and no one can determine the problem. My racks are protected with 2 "Just Add Power" units. Any thoughts?

Link to comment
Share on other sites


I think @lippavisual and @brantlmcdonald are on to something with the frequency issue.  It has been discussed in other threads, but UPSs have issues with the power coming out of generators.  As I understand it (and I'm not an expert here), portable generators fluctuate most, but even high end standby generators fluctuate too and when they do that the UPS can switch back and forth to battery and ultimately die.  It doesn't surface right away either.  We had an extended outage where the UPS was fine for 4 days of generator power and then just died.  So I had to upgrade to a model that is designed to work with generators.  I use a cyberpower and their branding is that the UPS supports "generator mode."  There are some helpful resources for background on the issue and what the UPS needs to solve it: here, here, and here.  APC also offers UPSs that work with generators.  Hope this is helpful.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

2 hours ago, Smarter_Than_You said:

Generators, even quality standby generators, produce garbage power.  This is why we put in a SugeX Branch Circuit and one of their Online Double Conversion Standalone UPS on every project'.  The combo produces clean and safe power for your equipment.

 

Current generation “Quality” generators electronically manage the frequency and voltage. The key to any generator install is to ensure the generator is properly size for the loads. For example, it would be poor practice to size a generator to run at or near its rated load. But as long as the generator has sufficient excess capacity and a “quality” frequency control, it will output sufficiently clean power for a high quality UPS and power conditioner. Keep in mind you can adjust the acceptable voltage and frequency ranges on most quality UPS’s and you should ensure these tolerances are not to tight.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

This thread is quite old. Please consider starting a new thread rather than reviving this one.

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use.