No Communication with UPS/"No Server" Troubleshooting
NOTE: Click on the information icon in the text below for background details.
1. Check that PowerChute Business Edition Agent (PBA) service is running: APC PBE Agent. INFO
2.

Make sure that the serial cable that came with the UPS is attached between the UPS and the system serial port. It is NOT a standard RS-232 cable. The required cable depends on the UPS model - please refer to the table below. INFO

UPS Type UPS Model Cable
Back-UPS All 940-0020B (gray)
Back-UPS Pro PNP All

940-0020B (gray) for simple signaling;
940-0095A (gray) for smart signaling
Back-UPS Pro S All 940-0024C (black);
940-0020B for simple signaling
Smart-UPS All 940-0024C (black) for smart signaling;
940-0020B (gray) for simple signaling
Matrix-UPS All 940-0024C (black) for smart signaling;
940-0020B (gray) for simple signaling

After the proper cable is attached stop and restart the PowerChute Business Edition Agent (PBA) service as indicated in step 1. If the system is still unable to communicate, proceed to the next step.
 
3. Check the port settings for the serial communications port that PowerChute is using. To check these settings:

  1. Open the Windows 2000 Device Manager. To do this, right-click on My Computer on the desktop, select Manage, then choose Device Manager.
     
  2. Select the appropriate COM Port Icon.
     
  3. Make sure the following settings are correct:
     
    Setting Value Notes
    Baud Rate 2400
     
    Number of Stop Bits 1


     

    Parity None
     
    Flow Control Xon/Xoff
     
    FIFO Buffer Enabled Not selected (see the Advanced Settings button for this setting)

     
  4. Once you have verified the settings, stop and restart the PowerChute Business Edition Agent (PBA) service as indicated in step 1. If the system is still unable to communicate proceed to the next step.
     
4. If you have a SmartSlot accessory connected to the UPS, click on INFO for specific configuration details.
5. If you have still not established communication, try debugging the COM port with HyperTerminal. INFO

6. If you still have not established communication, try using another communications cable if one is available. Or, if you are using a laptop, check your manufacturer's laptop configuration program to ensure the COM port is receiving power and switched on.

7. If you have tried all of the techniques above but still have not established communication, visit the APC Support Page for troubleshooting help.