A wide range of communication interfaces are available for Comet UPS's. They are used to transmit information on UPS operating status and alarms to the host computer system.
This improves computer system security and optimises operation through:
> Screen messages warning users of mains outages,
> Automatic closing of system files before battery power runs out,
> Optimum management of applications depending on the remaining backup time,
> Automatic shutdown of the UPS, etc.

Ethernet Network connection

Comet can be equipped with Network Management Link (P/N 66077 - requires Comet U-Talk card* on the UPS). Network Management Link is an Ethernet 10/100 interface for :
> SNMP-based monitoring and alarms (traps) from NMS like HP Open-View, IBM Tivoli Netview, CA Unicenter, ....
> Web-based monitoring from any web browser,
> Direct e-mail notification
> Automatic shutdown of protected servers
*plugs into one of the 3 free slots on the Comet UPS.

Direct access to essential information

Every Comet comes with a communication port (SUB-D 15-pin connector) for immediate connection to any computer system. The following information is available at all times:
> Load on inverter,
> Load on battery,
> Load on static bypass,
> Low battery warning.

Remote UPS monitoring

Comet can be equipped with an optional Contact 5 card*, providing five relay contacts (250 V, 1 A). These contacts can be used to activate audio or LED alarms to inform operators of:
> The UPS operating status (load on inverter, battery or static bypass),
> Approaching system shutdown due to low battery power,
> Any UPS operating problems that may occur.
Whatever the circumstances, measures can then be taken in time to close files and terminate work sessions without incident.
*plugs into one of the 3 free slots on the Comet UPS.

Remote information with "Monitor Plus"

With the Monitor Plus mini-terminal for local or remote control and monitoring in any of six languages, your system administrator can remotely:
> Consult the UPS operating status (load on inverter, battery or static bypass),
> Check the main inverter and battery operating parameters,
> Restart the UPS (on/off control) and consequently reset the computer system,
> Monitor the remaining battery power on a real-time basis,
> Receive alarm messages.

Building and Energy Management systems

Connection of one or more Comet UPS's to a Building and Energy Management system means that their operating status information and remote control can be centralised. It is then possible to:
> Consult the operating status and parameters of each UPS (load on inverter, battery or static bypass, etc.),
> Obtain precise diagnostics in the event of a problem,
> Monitor the remaining battery power for each UPS on a real-time basis,
> Individually restart each UPS (on/off control) and consequently reset the connected computer hardware.
Supervisory control may be implemented using, for example, the Isis system via a JBUS network with the "RS485 JBUS" or "RS232 JBUS" cards.