Adept Power Solutions are one of the most rapidly growing providers of UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) units and standby power solutions. They were looking for a remote device monitoring solution that could alert supplier and customer alike if there was a problem with one of their installations.

The solution built by CGI manages scheduled and real-time data via SNMP from the UPS using a Raspberry Pi as the remote monitoring device to a web portal that can be accessed by Adept staff and customers. The communication is achieved using software installed on the Raspberry Pi.

In this industry, a UPS that works flawlessly when called upon is absolutely crucial. In the event of a fault, the remote device messages to the web portal which then alerts customer, engineer, head office or any other crucial personnel immediately via email or SMS message.

Remote UPS monitoring

The web portal provides Adept with a system that allows them to manage and report on their installations quickly and easily. CGI’s experience in bespoke web applications means that an intuitive user experience is coupled with a robust database design to provide an easy-to-use, secure and scalable solution.

Adept can now save time in identifying where issues have occurred and who should be dealing with them. The interactive map can also help plan servicing visits in the most economical way saving valuable time and fuel costs.

Security is also paramount with sensitive customer data and Adept have full control over access to the system with a range of user profiles with secure passwords whose view and ability to change the system are pre-defined.

We are also building the prototype device to be installed on-site. Using a “Raspberry Pi” Linux box means that complicated instruction algorithms can be handled. It also has the added bonus that the embedded software can be updated remotely to take on board different instructions as future requirements change – the ultimate remote device management solution.

Key benefits

  • Ability to add unlimited new devices
  • Set up device information, customer details, emergency contacts and even photos in-situ for each installation
  • An easily understood colour coded alert system
  • Regular and ad-hoc reporting
  • An interactive map showing all installations, including those on alert, in test mode and requiring service

“CGI demonstrated a complete understanding of our specific requirements for the launch of an innovative new monitoring service. They were able to use their impressive technical skills to turn our ideas into a fully live solution on-time and most importantly, on budget. We have been very impressed with their professionalism and they are highly recommended.” Marc Cresswell Sales and Marketing Director, Adept Power Systems

The project referenced in this case study was delivered by Xibis, part of SCISYS, which CGI acquired in December 2019.