Critical Power Equipment Systems for Communications Providers

When the grid goes down, your customers still expect a dial tone, a data connection, and a way to reach 911. Telecom backup power keeps switches, routers, radios, and fiber electronics running until utility power returns, so service continues without interruption.

The stakes keep rising. Severe storms, wildfires, and grid strain are causing more frequent outages, and BEAD and RDOF projects are extending networks into rural areas where power can take longer to restore. A reliable backup plan protects your customers, your reputation, and your revenue.

Most cell sites run on a -48V DC telecom power system. Rectifiers convert incoming AC power to DC to run the equipment and keep the batteries charged. When AC power drops, the battery strings take over instantly, with no transfer gap.

At sites with a generator, the batteries carry the load until the generator starts and stabilizes. Battery runtime depends on the site's load and battery capacity, so cell tower backup should be sized to your specific requirements. Batteries also lose capacity as they age, which makes regular testing essential. You can't count on a battery bank until it has proven it can carry the load.

Both keep equipment running during an outage, but they deliver different types of power. A DC plant powers most network equipment directly at -48V. A telecommunications UPS provides conditioned AC power to equipment that requires it, such as servers, IT systems, and some central office and data center loads.

Many facilities need both. The right mix depends on your equipment, your runtime goals, and your site layout.

You get one partner for design, equipment, installation, testing, and ongoing service. That means fewer vendors to manage and faster answers when something goes wrong.

• 25 years of experience with DC backup power systems
• A national service footprint with 100+ engineering and service professionals and 60+ stocking locations
• A large on-hand inventory across multiple brands, plus proprietary products
• Extended equipment warranties for communications providers
• Strong buying power that helps you get more from a tight budget

From national carriers to independent cooperatives, communications providers across the country rely on our team to keep their networks powered.

Yes. Our full engineering, furnish, and install (EF&I) capabilities cover your telecom power equipment from first design through final commissioning. We also complete dozens of greenfield and retrofit projects for communications infrastructure partners each year.

Beyond critical power, our dedicated teams handle AC power, HVAC, and general contracting, along with the design and project management needed to keep your build on time and on budget.

To get started, Request a Free Site Assessment and speak with one of our experts about your network's needs.