K7HIO.NET

On June 3, 2010 the City of Hillsboro performed a full power-down test at the Ronler site.  This gave us an opportunity to see the automatic generator transfer switch in action, as well as test our own backup power capabilities.  The test was true to life, in that the facilities person turned off the main power at the disconnect switch, simulating an immediate total power loss.

Within seconds, we received notification of the power outage via pager:

We have a small server in the rack that we use for common file storage, pager system control, and routing to the hi-speed D-STAR network.  This server and its monitor are powered from a small UPS that is connected to our main battery bank (approximately 160 A/hr).  The server and monitor continued to run for about 20 minutes while the test was completed.

During the test, we learned that the radio room is not on the primary or secondary generator panel.  Luckily, our own backup capabilities were sufficient and the event gave us a good opportunity for a real world test.  Our Emergency Manager is working to get the panel changed soon.