Battery backup unit system and interface

摘要

A battery backup unit can be used to supply backup power to a computer. The battery backup unit includes a charge circuit that is connected to the computer's power supply unit. The charge circuit is also connected to a battery pack that includes a battery. The charge circuit converts an input high DC voltage signal supplied by the power supply unit to a charging signal. The charging signal can be used to charge the battery in the battery pack. The battery backup unit also includes a discharge circuit that is connected to the power supply unit and the battery pack. The discharge circuit converts a battery signal received from the battery pack to an output high DC voltage signal. The output high DC voltage signal can be fed into the power supply unit in order to drive the power supply unit if there is an indication that the AC power input to the power supply unit is inadequate to drive the computer. The battery backup can include a controller to control the operation of the battery back up and a comparator for determining if the input high DC voltage signal supplied by the power supply unit is below a reference voltage. The battery backup unit can be connected to the motherboard of the computer in order to communicate with the motherboard. The battery backup unit and the motherboard can communicate using a System Management Bus or programmed input output. Changes in the status of the power supply unit, battery backup unit and battery pack can be communicated to the motherboard in order to notify the computer's operating system of the changes.