Power protection
Keep critical equipment running
UPS systems for a single PC up to a full server rack, plus the PDUs and batteries that go with them.
Three types
Which kind of UPS do you need?
All three switch to battery when the mains fails. They differ in how they handle the power problems that happen far more often: dips, surges and noise.
Protection level
Offline (standby)
Passes mains power straight through and switches to battery when it fails.
Typical use: desktop PCs, routers, small office equipment.
Protection level
Line-interactive
Corrects voltage dips and surges without using the battery, so it switches to battery less often.
Typical use: small servers, network cabinets, point of sale.
Protection level
Online double-conversion
Powers the load from its inverter all the time, so there is no transfer time at all.
Typical use: servers, storage and anything that must not blink.
Sizing a UPS in three steps
Add up the load
List the equipment on the UPS and total its power draw in watts. Measured draw is better than the figure on the power supply label.
Leave headroom
Choose a UPS whose watt rating comfortably exceeds your total. Allowing 20 to 30% is a common rule of thumb.
Check the runtime
Use the manufacturer's runtime chart for your load. Add external battery packs if you need longer.
VA or watts? UPS models are often named by VA, but the watt rating is what matters for sizing. A 1500 VA unit might be rated at 900 W or 1500 W depending on the model.
Rack PDUs
225 rack PDUs, from basic power strips to metered and switched units you can monitor over the network.
APC
APC NetShelter Rack PDU Advanced - Switched - 3Phase - 43.5kW 400V 63A or 34.6kW 415V 60A - 42 Outlets - IEC30…
SKU APDU10450SW
£3,764.61View
Batteries, bypass and cards
Extend runtime, replace worn batteries and manage your UPS remotely.
Questions we often get
What is the difference between VA and watts?
VA is the apparent power a UPS can supply and watts is the real power. The watt rating is always the same or lower, and it is the figure to compare with the load you need to protect.
How long will a UPS keep my equipment running?
Runtime depends on the load: the lighter the load, the longer it lasts. Each manufacturer publishes runtime charts for its models. Where you need longer runtime, choose a model that accepts external battery packs.
Can UPS batteries be replaced?
Yes, on most models. Replacement battery cartridges are available for many APC and other units; check the cartridge is listed as compatible with your UPS model.
Rack or tower?
Many business UPS models are rack/tower convertible (often marked RT), so they can stand on the floor or mount in a 19-inch rack.
Prices are as listed on networkdistri.co.uk in September 2026 and can change; the product page always shows the current price, VAT and delivery. Product names and trademarks belong to their owners.
