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AC vs. DC - Which Power to Use?
By Mark Parson

This question is often overlooked by IT and network managers with modem IT and communications equipment and many product supply companies simply supply 24VAC solutions but is the best option?

Most modern communications and It support equipment is designed around world DC 24 V and -48VDC power supply standards and this offers a number of options. For longer run times with back up power support, integrations with other site equipment and better power stability / quality DC power is often a better solution.

One of the major advantages in considering both options carefully is cost. Often financial short and long term gains can be achieved through the use of DC options or provide critical base power loads.

Managers posed with this question should carefully consider options and seek the best options from technology support providers with experience in this area to achieve the best solution.

InfraWorks is an industry leading supplier of technology support products including AC and DC power solutions from the worlds leading manufactures. Through the integration of communications and power solutions InfraWorks understands all of the issues to be considered in selecting the right base power load and can provide engineering advice support and total design services for clients.

With environmental issues and best practices now being required to comply with corporate environmental guidelines InfraWorks can supply the best engineered solution to ensure all best practices are complied with including correct removal and disposal of old technology equipment.

The Key Difference Between AC & DC

In 1887 direct current (DC) was king. At that time there were 121 Edison power stations scattered across the United States delivering DC electricity to its customers. But DC had a great limitation -- namely, that power plants could only send DC electricity about a mile before the electricity began to lose power. So when George Westinghouse introduced his system based on high-voltage alternating current (AC), which could carry electricity hundreds of miles with little loss of power, people naturally took notice. A "battle of the currents" ensued. In the end, Westinghouse's AC prevailed.