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What is a Standby Battery?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

Standby batteries are high-powered batteries designed for use when other power sources fail. Many businesses make use of a standby battery system to keep essential services and functions operating, even when there is some type of interruption in the flow of power from the local power grid. Systems of this type are easily installed and can be activated immediately.

Hospitals are one example of facilities that benefit from the presence of standby battery systems. In the event that some natural disaster or unforeseen accident causes the local power supply to temporarily cease, the standby system is activated at once. This makes it possible for patients on lifesaving equipment to continue to receive treatment. Surgeons can continue operations, and the computer systems containing vital information on patients will continue to be accessible to the staff.

Man with a drill
Man with a drill

Manufacturing plants also commonly have some sort of standby battery system. In some cases, the system is composed of a mini-power station located on the premises. Some systems are designed with what is popularly known as a dead-man switch. When the main source of power fails, the standby battery network automatically detects the interruption in the power supply and begins to generate power to supply the machinery and other systems that are considered necessary to continue the production process.

Other businesses and facilities also make use of the standby battery. Telecommunication hubs often have a battery backup system that is capable of keeping telephone switches, bridging equipment, and other vital portions of the telecommunications network up and running. Government buildings are also likely to be equipped with a battery system that can kick in as soon as there is some sort of failure of the main power source. In all cases, it is possible to continue functioning with little to no interruption at all.

There are even standby battery products that are designed for home use. These smaller battery systems are often housed in a closet or basement, and can be quickly plugged into any outlet around the home. The standby battery then supplies power throughout the home, using the existing wiring. Once the main power supply is restored, the failsafe features of the battery automatically accommodate the electrical load to prevent an overload to the wiring, and gradually powers down.

When looking into a standby battery system for home or a larger building, it is important to accurately assess the amount of power needed to keep vital systems functioning. Experts can help business owners determine the right size of batteries and related equipment are needed to keep the operation going with a minimum of down time. In like manner, there are standby battery designs that will adequately power an apartment, small home, or a multi-story house in the event of an emergency.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including AboutMechanics, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

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Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including AboutMechanics, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

sreemanju

what is the difference between stand by use and cyclic use?

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    • Man with a drill
      Man with a drill