A systems approach to telecom battery monitoring and control using the rectifier power plant

A telecommunications power system design is described which addresses the need for: (1) proper charging of Pb-acid batteries in long term float service; and (2) in-situ monitoring of the battery for adequate capacity and integrity over its lifetime. Consideration is given to the special requirements that result from operating over a wide temperature range. The battery monitoring and control techniques described are targeted towards valve regulated Pb-acid (VRLA) battery applications, however they may also be generally applied to wet cell systems. Battery test results are presented which quantify the effectiveness of the monitoring methods proposed.