top of page

Backup Battery Calculations

This guide covers setting up backup battery supply for PA systems, including safety precautions and proper installation with the Amperes BC9740 battery charger.

battery.png

Calculating backup battery capacity

For most commercial installations, local authorities require the PA system to continue operating even during a power failure. Backup power can be supplied either through the building’s standby generator or a dedicated battery backup system.

The standby battery capacity must meet one of the following requirements:

  • The battery must support system operation for at least 6 hours, after which it must still be able to run evacuation broadcasts in all zones for at least 30 minutes.

  • The battery must support system operation for at least 24 hours, followed by at least 30 minutes of evacuation broadcast capability.

Minimum battery capacity required :

Cmin = 1.25 (( T1 x I1 ) + D ( I2 x T2 )) Ah

Cmin -  Min capacity of battery when new at 20 hour discharge rateat 20 deg C in Ah

1.25 -  Ageing factor allowing 5% per year for 4 years 

T1 -  Battery standby period in hours

T2 -  Alarm time in hours (as 0.5 or 30 minutes)

I1-  Battery standby load in amperes

I2 -  Battery alarm load in amperes 

D2 -  Battery de-rating factor (Usually 1.75 for inefficiency of battery under load)

Source : BS5839-1 : 2013 : Annex D

Connecting to small loads

Example of a back-up power supply setup for small loads under 25A at 24V DC.

Power packs are wired in series to 24V, connected to the BATT IN terminals of the BC9740 charger and then connected to the PS9400 power supply.

WARNING: Use appropriate cable size for the total load. We recommend 2.5mm high temperature PVC insulated cables.

3_edited.jpg
  • Introduction

    PS9400 is a rack-mounted 24V DC regulated power supply with a built-in mains failure changeover relay. When the main power fails, the relay automatically switches to a 24V DC backup battery bank to keep critical PA equipment running smoothly. Designed specifically for PA system reliability, the PS9400 prevents voltage fluctuations that can occur with unregulated power supplies, protecting sensitive equipment and ensuring stable operation, making it ideal for reliable, professional installations.

    Packing information

    • Carton size: 555 (L) x 295 (W) x 95 (H) mm​

    • Gross weight: 3.0 kg

    • 1 unit per carton

    • 24V DC, 4A regulated power supply

    • Supports a maximum output of 5.5A

    • Built-in protection such as output fuse, short circuit, and overload protection

    • AC mains failure relay for seamless power changeover

    • Automatic relay for backup battery override

  • Product Catalogue

    File Type: PDF

    Version: Year 24/25

    Instruction Manual

    File Type: PDF

    Version: Year 24/25

    Instruction Manual

    File Type: PDF

    Version: Year 24/25

    Instruction Manual

    File Type: PDF

    Version: Year 24/25

    Instruction Manual

    File Type: PDF

    Version: Year 24/25

Connecting to large loads

For loads over 25A it is necessary to use an external contactor to connect the DC backup to the DC input of the amplifier. You can choose an AC or DC contactor with the correct rating.

WARNING: Use cables of the correct size for the total load. We recommend 2.5mm or larger high temperature PVC insulated cables.

BC9740 connection.png

Cable size of back up supply

Use the correct cable size to carry the full load current from the battery bank to the amplifiers. Undersized cables may cause a fire hazard.

Recommendations:

  • Use proper cable lugs for secure connections

  • Keep power cables separate from signal or output cables

  • Refer to the cable table for sizing guidelines, taking into account routing and ambient temperature.

cable chart.jpg

Your reliable partner in PA system

Contact us by filling out the contact form or reach us at info@ampereselectronics.com

Registered association members of

FMM_logo.jpg
matrade_logo.png
TEEAM_logo.png

International recognitions

ISO 9001_UKAS_URS_PDF-1.png
ce_logo.png
© 1999 - 2025 Amperes Electronics Sdn Bhd. All Rights Reserved.

Payment

paypal_icon.gif

© 1999 - 2024 Amperes Electronics Sdn Bhd. All Rights Reserved.

PayPal payment is only applicable for payment from outside of Malaysia

Sales Office (Malaysia)

70, Jalan Industri PBP 3,

Taman Perindustrian Pusat Bandar Puchong,

47100 Puchong, Selangor, Malaysia.

Tel: +603-5882 7757 / 7758

Production Factory (Malaysia)

2, Jalan Meranti Puchong D25@Meranti Puchong

47120 Puchong, Selangor, Malaysia

Export Sales Office (Singapore)

Amperes Asia Pte Ltd

(Co Reg: 201102253E)

1, North Bridge Road, #13-03, High Street Centre, Singapore 179094

amperes_logo_profile_fit_w.png

Amperes Electronics Sdn Bhd

Registration No: 200001006420 (509025-X)

Your Trusted PA System Manufacturer since 1999

  • Amperes Electronics Facebook
  • Amperes Electronics LinkedIn
  • Amperes Electronics YouTube
  • Amperes Electronics Instagram
bottom of page