Differences between UPS and solar inverters

People may confused in solar inverter and UPS when choosing device for solar system. Let’s see how wikipedia defines

A solar inverter or photovoltaic (PV) inverter is a type of power inverter which converts the variable direct current (DC) output of a photovoltaic solar panel into a utility frequency alternating current (AC) that can be fed into a commercial electrical grid or used by a local, off-grid electrical network.

An uninterruptible power supply or uninterruptible power source (UPS) is an electrical apparatus that provides emergency power to a load when the input power source or mains power fails.

In short, here is 5 main differences between solar inverters and UPS

1. Time delay  

When the main power supply is interrupted, the UPS will immediately switch from the main power supply to the battery, which takes about 10 to 15 milliseconds. However, there will be a delay of about 500 microseconds between the inverter switching from the main power supply to the battery.

2. The roles play in power system

The main function of UPS is to store power supply, while the function of inverter is to convert AC power into DC power.

3. Relationship

The UPS is directly connected to the electronic equipment, while the inverter is connected to the battery first, and then to the circuit of the equipment.

4. Input power requirements

The inverter has a wider input power range - 170-270 VAC - while the UPS operates at 240-270 VAC.

5. Voltage fluctuation

When the power supply is interrupted, the output voltage needs to be smooth. The voltage output of UPS is better than that of inverter.

However, there is a new type of solar inverter combines the function of UPS, XLS off-grid solar inverter, has selectable INV MODE(100-290Vac) or UPS MODE (145-290Vac) for home appliances and personal computers.