Designing Power Systems for Uptime

Security, safety, and communication systems are only as reliable as the power that drives them – a constant that must never be compromised. When deployed in key verticals like hospitals, schools, shopping centers, smart cities, and data centers, even brief power interruptions can disrupt access control, surveillance, and emergency communications.

The integrity of modern security infrastructure depends on consistent power distribution. A momentary power loss can trigger a cascade of failures, like unauthorized access, loss of video, and disabled alarms – whose impact may only be felt after the damage is done.

In mission-critical environments, reliable power redundancy solutions can keep operations running even if the primary power fails. A layered power infrastructure architecture should allow backup power to activate seamlessly and restore functionality without delay.

Uninterrupted power distribution is critical to better secure buildings, provide safe environments, and maintain fluid operations. For systems integrators and servicing dealers, the challenge transcends just meeting code or basic battery backup requirements, but also engineering reliable and continuous operation into every system installation.

Fortunately, there are a number of effective power redundancy solutions for critical systems that use proven technologies. By leveraging technologies like Automatic Transfer Switches, intelligent battery backup charging, and remote supervision, system integrators can provide their customers with power infrastructure that adapts, responds, and endures.

Core Strategies for Ensuring Continuity

For your customers, redundant power solutions are both a technical decision and a commitment to safety, continuity, and trust that protects customers’ people, property, and assets while ensuring business continuity. For integrators, these solutions help to solidify long-term relationships with enterprise customers.

Power continuity for security infrastructure typically hinges on two pillars: automatic source switching and backup battery power with recharging capability. These technologies work in tandem to maintain uptime and mitigate risks associated with utility failure, environmental events, or internal disruptions.

Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS)

An ATS monitors two independent AC power sources – typically a utility feed and a generator, or dual utility feeds. If the primary source fails or voltage drops below the threshold, the ATS automatically switches to the secondary source, ensuring uninterrupted power delivery to connected devices.

When recommending an ATS solution for a customer, here are the features you should key in on:

• Real-time source monitoring for fast failover response;
• Customizable settings, including brownout thresholds and restoration delays;
• Visual indicators and dry contact outputs for power status supervision;
• Compact mounting options for flexible integration into enclosures or racks; and
• 115 VAC and 230 VAC compatibility to support systems with varying power input requirements.

Fast-Charging Backup Power Systems

Battery backups provide continuity during power outages and/or between source transitions; however, battery backup solutions need to be properly sized for the load and be capable of recharging quickly to be ready for subsequent outages.

Modern charging units can restore 32AH+ sealed lead-acid or gel batteries in less than eight hours. This rapid turnaround is essential for clients with frequent outages or outdoor installations where AC restoration may be delayed.

For pole-mounted, rooftop, or remote installations, fast and intelligent battery management keeps security edge devices fully operational, even during grid outages.

Integrators should recommend battery backup charging solutions that include:

• Smart algorithms for safe, efficient energy recharging;
• Health diagnostics to assess capacity and condition;
• AC failure alerts for proactive response; and
• Support for high-demand devices like IP cameras, PoE switches, and access panels.

Redundancy Prioritization

Not all security components require the same level of uptime protection. A best practice for integrators is to classify components into the following tiers based on their critical function:

Tier 1 – Safety and Emergency Systems: Devices such as fire alarms, emergency door access, and notification devices should have full ATS failover connected to their backup battery chargers.

Tier 2 – Operational Security: This tier includes video surveillance, intercom, and access control devices that should have ATS solutions connected to the primary and secondary power sources to ensure continuous operation.

Tier 3 – Auxiliary Devices: Systems such as non-essential lighting or digital signage may only require surge protection or local UPS. This approach helps critical operations stay online during prolonged outages while keeping overall costs in check.

Installation and Maintenance Considerations

While generally designed for installation in demanding applications and environments, modern redundant power solutions vary in features and configuration. Look for battery backup solutions with features that simplify maintenance and service – thus reducing labor costs, which benefits both integrators and their customers. Those features include:  

• DIN-rail, rack, or wall-mount versatility;
• Removable terminal blocks for simplified wiring; and
• Clear labeling and quick-access diagnostics.

Smart Oversight Tools

Redundant power systems are only effective when their status is continuously monitored. By proactively tracking AC loss, battery voltage, and system health, clients can prevent unexpected failures and schedule maintenance before critical events occur. Supervision also reduces technician dispatch time, enabling remote diagnostics and faster resolution.

Effective backup power solutions should include:

• Integrated telemetry for centralized oversight;
• Remote alerts for real-time updates; and
• LED indicators for on-site status verification.

Vertical-Market Specific Power Continuity Needs

Each vertical market presents unique challenges for maintaining reliable power. Here’s how to tailor solutions to meet specific vertical market requirements:

Healthcare: Hospitals and clinics depend on uninterrupted access control and environmental safety. Power continuity is vital for securing restricted areas, maintaining elevator control, and enabling emergency evacuation. Dual-source ATS solutions and long-duration battery backup systems will support the continuous operation of door hardware and critical communication networks.

Transportation: Airports, train stations, and metro systems require constant surveillance and access management. In these environments, rapid-charging battery systems for poles and gates, along with DIN-rail-mounted ATS units installed in compact enclosures across distributed sites, help maintain reliable operation during power disruptions.

Data centers: Even milliseconds of downtime can mean data loss. A layered power infrastructure with ATS should be designed to isolate source failures and smart battery solutions with load-sharing capabilities. Health alerts should be integrated into broader facility monitoring platforms.

Schools and campuses: With increased focus on lockdown systems and active shooter response, power continuity solutions for K-12 schools and higher education campuses are essential. Redundant power should cover perimeter control, notification systems, and classroom communication equipment. Battery backup duration should be tailored to support extended outages common in rural or underserved regions.