Power monitoring solution

Synapsys is giving data centre managers better information on their power usage with the launch of its new SIPp power monitoring solution.

  • Monday, 31st March 2014 Posted 10 years ago in by Phil Alsop

SIPp is a flexible, hardware-based solution, with no ongoing licence or service costs, making it extremely cost-effective. The system provides accurate and detailed data on actual usage down to rack level, allowing potential power supply issues to be identified easily and resolved efficiently.


For simplicity of use, the system features a user-friendly ‘dashboard’ display to present performance data using easy-to-read graphics. It’s straightforward to select which information feeds feature on the customised dashboard, giving managers instant access to the statistics they need, while the intuitive presentation makes the data easily accessible with minimal training to non-technical personnel as well as engineers.


Security of uptime is crucial for any data centre, and power monitoring can alert users to any unusual trends in usage that might reveal over-use, or hardware failure. SIPp allows the user to define the parameters at which an alarm is triggered to key personnel, allowing appropriate and timely responses to be organised in order to maintain service.


The system is easily scalable, making it future fit. Each device can monitor up to 72 individual power circuits using micro CTs (current transformers) with 36 on each feed, and if requirements increase, more SIPps can be added. Expanding the system in this way entails only the one-off cost of the additional hardware - as the system is not subscription-based, there are no increased licensing fees.


Synapsys’ solution is ideal for retrofit projects, as the non-intrusive installation means there’s no downtime, avoiding the need to arrange a change ticket. The CTs for each device simply clip into place – it couldn’t be simpler.


SIPp is ideal for use as a standalone power monitoring solution, and can also be connected if required to a BMS for integrated energy management. The device converts the information it obtains into a common universal protocol to communicate with other building control systems, including Trend.


The range includes options for AC power monitoring, branch circuit monitoring, and DC power monitoring, making it suitable for all types of data centre applications.