An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is crucial to the reliable operation of your data center and IT equipment. A UPS provides clean backup power for connected equipment, protecting those devices and ensuring they remain operational if and when power failures, power surges, or other fluctuations in power occur. ### Modular UPS - **Design**: Composed of multiple small, self-contained UPS modules that can be added or removed to scale the system's capacity. - **Flexibility**: Easily scalable by adding more modules as needed. Offers redundancy by incorporating multiple modules. - **Maintenance**: Easier to maintain and service, as individual modules can be replaced without affecting the overall system. - **Applications**: Ideal for environments that anticipate growth or have varying power needs [[1](https://www.prostarsolar.net/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-modular-ups-and-conventional-ups.html), [3](https://www.criticalpowersupplies.co.uk/blog/what-is-the-difference-between-modular-and-n1-ups-systems/)]. ### Static UPS - **Design**: Also known as monolithic UPS, it is a single, large unit that provides uninterruptible power. - **Simplicity**: Typically simpler in design with fewer components compared to modular systems. - **Capacity**: Fixed capacity; cannot be easily scaled. - **Maintenance**: Maintenance can be more challenging as servicing usually requires the entire system to be taken offline. - **Applications**: Suitable for smaller setups with consistent power requirements and less need for scalability [[2](https://www.electronicdesign.com/technologies/power/article/21245068/solaredge-technologies-whats-the-difference-between-monolithic-and-modular-ups-systems), [5](https://www.serverroomenvironments.co.uk/blog/comparing-modular-to-monoblock-ups-systems)]. ### Differential UPS - **Design**: Not a commonly recognized term in the UPS industry, but can be interpreted as UPS systems designed for specific differential applications (such as providing differential voltage regulation). - **Function**: Generally refers to systems that handle different types of power inputs or outputs to manage specific power quality requirements. - **Applications**: Used in scenarios where power quality and specific electrical characteristics need to be managed precisely. Details and exact definitions can vary.