[mythtv-users] [OT] UPS's and 24x7 MythBoxen...

[chris at cpr.homelinux.net]

On Wed, Jul 27, 2005 at 11:45:15AM -0500, Andrew Close wrote:
> On 7/27/05, chris at cpr.homelinux.net <chris at cpr.homelinux.net> wrote:
> > I am using an APC "Back-UPS ES 725".  It talks to the Linux box via USB
> > cable so that the box is always aware of the UPS battery capacity and
> > will automatically perform an orderly shutdown when the batteries reach
> > 5% remaining capacity or the UPS says there is only 3 minutes left.
> > When line power is back, the UPS automatically turns itself back on
> > when the batteries reach 15% charge, and the BIOS in my computer is set
> > to turn on when power is restored.
> 
> sweet, that sounds like what i'm looking for!  is turning the computer
> back on a common option in newer BIOS's?  or is it something that i
> have to look for specifically when buying a new MoBo?  are there any
> specific kernel modules you need compiled in for this to work (APC)?

I think most computers made in the last two years or so can turn
themselves on automatically at a preset time or when power is applied.

No special kernel modules are required other than whatever you need to
get USB working as the ups is just a simple serial device.  The daemon
and control programs run in user-space.  All you need is the apcupsd
package and some patience with the config file.