May 29, 2023 Pageview:317
Around the world, a wide variety of industries use embedded computers. As a result, embedded computers are continually used around us, from pipeline monitoring in the oil and gas industry to network security devices meant to monitor and mitigate infiltration risks. Well, in this article, we'll look at the embedded computer and the types of batteries that it uses.
What is an Embedded Computer?
Hardware and software are combined to create embedded computers, which are created to carry out a specific task. They are made to withstand challenges in the environment they are intended for, like extreme temperatures.
General-purpose CPUs and laptops are not regarded as embedded computers for several reasons. The term "embedded" first suggests that the computer must be a part of a larger mechanical or electronic system. Most people associate the word "computer" with a standalone computer. Second, although an embedded computer is built to do a single task, a laptop can simultaneously download and run multiple applications, software, and calculations.
Embedded computers take in electronic data, process it, and communicate with the system's mechanical parts, such as an anti-lock brake system or an electric oven. As demand keeps rising, embedded computers' significance in contemporary technology will only grow. Remember that the embedded computer is necessary for most of its functions the next time you use a microwave or open a refrigerator.
What is an Embedded Computer UPS?
Microprocessors used in digital technology, including computers, telecommunications systems, and instrumentation, run at high frequencies and can process millions or even billions of operations per second. As a result, millions or thousands of simple tasks can feel the impact of a brief interruption in the electrical supply. Failure and data loss could be the outcome, with dangerous or expensive repercussions (such as production loss). Because of this, many loads—also known as sensitive or critical loads—need a protected supply. For example, the Computer Business Equipment Manufacturers Association for computer equipment against distribution system disturbances specifies very stringent tolerances for the delivery of their equipment, far stricter than those in the distribution system.
The requirement for improved portability in the design of personal computer desktop workstations drove the demand for this uninterrupted power supply (UPS) for personal computers (PC). In addition to serving as a backup power source, this design includes the unit inside the system unit shell, lowering the number of system components that can be used. Additionally, embedding this unit eliminates the messy appearance of connecting wires and transforms the entire computer into a laptop. The decision to include a microcontroller as a crucial circuitry component must be considered. The original design's heavy and oversized components have been removed. The UPS is classified as an "instrument" because it only uses this microcontroller.
What kind of battery does the embedded computer UPS use?
Uninterruptible power sources ( UPS ) typically employ one of three battery types: Nickel-Cadmium, Lead-Acid, or Lithium-Ion in embedded computers. Unfortunately, there isn't one "best" UPS battery technology; each situation calls for a different option.
Lead Acid UPS Batteries
When utilized in an uninterruptible power supply system, lead-acid batteries have a demonstrated track record of dependability. As a result, they offer the most cost-effective option for high-power applications like embedded computers when weight isn't the main concern.
This cost-effectiveness is coupled with additional performance attributes like high tolerance and low internal impedance.
Lead-Acid batteries are available in two varieties:
●(VRLA) Valve Regulated
The most prevalent battery type in modern UPS systems is VRLA. They are enclosed in a case with a valve that, if the internal pressure builds up, vents to expel the gas. AGM and Gel are the two primary forms of electrolyte compositions employed. Due to its lower price, lower internal resistance, and higher charge/discharge rates, AGM technology is the standard for UPS batteries. The internal resistance of gel-filled VRLA is higher, but it has benefits, including a wider operating temperature range and a longer design life.
●(VLA) Open Vented
VLA batteries must be kept upright and put in a special room with wash-down facilities because they are flooded with electrolyte acid and have a long design life. Additionally, they cost more than VRLA.
Lithium-Ion UPS Batteries
Long utilized in electronic devices like laptops, embedded computers, and smartphones, lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries are now essential components in the development of electric cars. But lately, they have gained more and more appeal as a backup alternative for uninterruptible power supplies and other energy storage systems, including those that use energy from renewable sources like wind or solar.
Because Li-Ion batteries include built-in battery monitoring and management systems that examine each cell for any change in performance, they are more reliable than conventional VRLA/SLA batteries. Due to their substantially better power density, lithium-ion UPS batteries also have the advantage of being significantly smaller and lighter. In addition, they outperform VRLA/SLA in terms of faster charge times, longer cycles, and at least a twofold increase in service life.
Despite recent decreases in price, Li-Ion UPS batteries are still significantly more expensive than the alternatives at first.
The longer service life does, however, make up for the higher initial capital expenses. In addition, Li-Ion batteries can run at greater temperatures and produce less heat, so they don't need as much air conditioning, which helps lower cooling expenses.
Nickel-Cadmium UPS Batteries
Previously a common choice for embedded computers, nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries are still utilized for UPS applications in places with extremely high ambient temperatures, like China.
On the battery's positive plate, the electrodes are composed of nickel hydroxide, and on the negative plate, cadmium hydroxide.
NiCds have the benefits of a 20-year design life, the capacity to operate in a wide temperature range (-20°C to +40°C), a long cycle life, and the ability to withstand deep discharges.
On the other hand, compared to the more common VRLA kind, NiCd UPS batteries are significantly more expensive. Additionally, because nickel and cadmium are harmful substances, recycling, and disposal procedures at the end of a product's useful life are prohibitively expensive. This is particularly true in nations with rigorous environmental rules and regulations, like China and the US.
FAQs:
What exactly is an embedded battery?
Embedded batteries are built into a gadget permanently and are common in phones. There is no enclosure lid, so the internal batteries have additional protection from the gadget. Instead, the battery is frequently hidden deep inside the apparatus.
What voltage does a computer UPS battery have?
Although most UPS batteries are 12 volts, some are built with two batteries connected in series.
Why does a computer have UPS?
When incoming power is interrupted, a computer can function for at least a short while, thanks to an uninterruptible power supply (UPS).
Why are UPS systems crucial for computers?
When there is a power loss, an uninterruptible power supply, or UPS, immediately provides backup power. Typically, computers or other devices like networking hardware are utilized with a UPS. The users can do this to save everything, prevent data loss, and properly shut down the machine.
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