Communication link between power converters and computer systems for system and alarm management

Communication between computers and power converters has become more and more important. Communication between power converters and central processing equipment totally changes the traditional routine of maintenance and service departments. Introducing a communication link is a very effective way of controlling the performance of a power converter. However, the way of communication must be carefully selected to avoid getting lost in the many possibilities of remote communication. The author describes how the introduction of a microcontroller in the power conversion control circuitry and the use of a well designed power conversion topology, both electronically and mechanically, ensures a good and reliable flow of power to any critical load, which is of major importance of a power converter system. A good selection of communication between the power converter and a computer system will increase the MTBR values of a system and allows the user to select his load profile more efficiently