When the power goes out, consumers don’t always care why it happened; they’re more interested in how quickly it comes back. Reliability has become the status quo for communication systems, and customer expectations have grown in response. So when a lightning strike, utility switch or increased single-point utility demand causes a power anomaly that interrupts the customer’s service, the service provider will likely get a call from an angry user, and potentially lose the business – no matter who’s really at fault.
To protect their reputations, as well as their customers’ best interests, service providers need to assume a responsibility that traditionally belonged to utility companies: providing clean, reliable, uninterrupted power. One major consideration should be the requirements of relevant outside plant communication power systems. Below are five powering trends that can help put these requirements in perspective and make network reliability a reality.
1. Network power needs are increasing.
Traditional data, voice, and video carriers are increasingly bundling communication services. In turn, power networks increase on a “per subscriber” basis to accommodate the new loads. As new services are added, network requirements are climbing by six to eight watts or more per subscriber, which massively increases network power density and dictates new requirements for reliability.
2. Power systems require extended backup time.
Due to their strategic importance or vulnerability to utility outages, certain power installations need the capacity for extended backup time. Some power systems can integrate internal or remote backup generators to meet this need, while others complement battery backup and deliver system availability by running on natural gas or propane.
Delayed starting circuitry in certain generators allows batteries to provide backup during short outages, while bringing the full generator online during extended outages. Such advances allow engine-generators to optimize battery life and system reliability. As the generators are designed for communication network applications, they can also detect and provide output power levels, monitor the system’s status and reduce noise levels, as compared to standard generators.
3. UPS-grade power is now a baseline requirement.
Today’s era of sophisticated wireless services makes true UPS-grade power a must-have for communication networks. Even brief power interruptions can wreak havoc on digital transmission traffic, which includes data, internet, and critical telephony services. As a result, every network’s power components must meet systems’ changing needs – and be prepared to scale as networks introduce enhanced services.
4. The right batteries are your first line of defense.
Battery selection and maintenance is one of the most critical factors in network and power reliability. However, some service providers make the mistake of putting non-performance aspects of batteries at the forefront of their selection processes. Batteries help defend against outages and power failures before the core system gets involved, and help ensure that all systems are receiving appropriate amounts of power. To support a steady environment, gel cell batteries tend to provide the longest life, most reliable performance, and safest application, as they’re designed specifically for outside plant communications.
5. Every power system comes with maintenance considerations.
On a per-unit basis, a small change in maintenance activity can translate into significant spending – funds that could potentially support new infrastructure or services, if they’re planned for and well received. Well-designed power systems can anticipate maintenance needs and reduce costs. For example, hot swappable and modular components add cost-effectiveness and limited disruptions to replacement, repair and upgrade processes. To ensure easy maintenance, service providers should seek system components that can be easily removed and replaced without interrupting power or affecting backup capability.
Approaching outside plant communication power system requirements takes research, planning, and experience to navigate a harsh operating environment and strict performance requirements. However, by understanding powering trends and the role of power in network reliability, service providers can rise to the occasion, properly evaluate solutions and deliver the uninterrupted connectivity that today’s users expect.
