Patent ID: 7962772

Claim:
A backup power system, the system comprising: a secondary power source; a stored energy component capable of storing energy therein; and a controller in data communication with the secondary power source and the stored energy component, wherein said controller is configured to: compare a measured energy level of energy stored within the stored energy component against a first threshold relating to a maximum time necessary for the secondary power source to at least reach a predetermined minimum output level, and compare the stored energy level to a second threshold greater than the first threshold, said second threshold being selected so as to reduce a number of on/off cycles of the secondary power source during periods of intermittent power fluctuation of the primary power source that are less severe than a prolonged full power loss by the primary power source, said controller being controlled and arranged so as to selectively provide power to an external load from one of a primary power source, the secondary power source, and the stored energy component in response to one or more comparison results.