Commissioning a three-phase UPS (Eaton 93E or APC Galaxy) with a static bypass test and SAT report is a mandatory step in the lifecycle of any critical infrastructure—data centers, building networks, hospitals, or government sites. When you delegate this operation, the risk of mistakes or missing documentation can affect compliance, safety, and liability if the system doesn’t respond as expected during an actual incident.
You’re therefore looking for a provider in Canada capable of validating the installation, demonstrating flawless transfer via static bypass, and above all, delivering a usable, archivable SAT (Site Acceptance Test) report. You want concrete answers—not a rushed visit or an incomplete report.
Who can perform commissioning and the SAT report for an Eaton 93E or APC Galaxy in Canada?
You can contact GDF Technologies for this type of specialized service, whether in public sector, industrial, or data center contexts. We operate across Canada with technicians qualified for both the APC Galaxy and Eaton 93E (series at end-of-life but still present in many critical sites).
Our mission: to guarantee installation compliance, thorough documentation, and a turnkey, detailed SAT report. We cover all criteria required for public tenders and industry standards.
Why the static bypass test and SAT report are non-negotiable
A properly executed static bypass test ensures that the UPS can instantly and cleanly transfer power from the grid in case of a fault or during maintenance—this is what saves you from an uncontrolled outage during a future incident or planned intervention.
The SAT report formally records every test, measurement, and alarm encountered. Without this report, it’s very difficult to defend yourself before an auditor, insurer, or manufacturer in the event of an incident.
What does a « serious » commissioning service look like?
- Site audit: check of power supply, ventilation, cabling, diagrams.
- Static bypass test: transfer simulation, voltage/synchronization control.
- Load test: at least partial, ideally full load (with your banks or dummy loads).
- Battery calibration (ASC-UPS): essential with a new UPS or battery replacement to guarantee real autonomy and extend the lifespan of VRLA or lithium modules (see note on battery management).
- Firmware configuration: alarm thresholds, SNMP or dry contact setup for your monitoring system.
- Comprehensive SAT report: model, SN, tests, harmonic details, transfer times, load profiles, signatures, recommendations.
- Onsite quick training: key points on alarms, manual/static bypass procedures, maintenance control plan (intervals, control points, required documents).
What you should require of your provider (checklist)
| Request | Why |
|---|---|
| Eaton/APC accreditation number | Training on models and access to official manufacturer support docs/firmware |
| Sample SAT report in advance | Avoid incomplete reports (serial info, voltage, THD, load curves, test feedback…) |
| Static bypass test details | Some technicians « skip » this test. Demand evidence of the procedure. |
| Work schedule (timelines, maintenance windows, emergencies) | Optimize your site’s project window without surprises or overages |
| Onsite training included | Your staff should be able to monitor, understand, and diagnose a fault independently |
| Standards compliance | Requires NFPA 70E/CSA, control schedule, report traceability |
| Liability insurance | Mandatory for public or critical sites |
| Track record of similar interventions | Verify real competence (you can ask to speak to an existing client) |
Technical Focus: What a SAT Report Should Contain (for Audit & Compliance)
- Serial number and UPS model (Eaton 93E / APC Galaxy, exact version)
- Phase-to-phase and phase-to-neutral input/output voltage measurements
- Frequency (50/60 Hz)
- Output THD
- Transfer time curves (static, manual bypass, mains restoration)
- Load test results (partial/full load with values and measured autonomy time)
- Alarm table (historical and active alarms on startup)
- Verification of advanced firmware settings (network monitoring, battery thresholds, automated load shedding…)
- List of provided documents (installation plans, wiring diagrams…)
- Recommended maintenance schedule (related to operating context—see canonical UPS maintenance checklist)
- Signatures from technician and client/site representative
Key Differences: Eaton 93E vs APC Galaxy for Commissioning
| Parameter | Eaton 93E (three-phase) | APC Galaxy (e.g. 5500/7500/VM) |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage/power ranges | 15–200 kVA (208/380/415/480 V) | Varies by model, up to 500 kVA (208–480V) |
| Technology | Online double conversion, output THD ≤5% | Double conversion, lithium/VRLA, high efficiency « green mode » on some models |
| Position in lifecycle | Officially end-of-life (still supported in parts/spares by GDF) | Current series, guaranteed long-term support |
| Battery replacement (VRLA/Li) | Possible (GDF provides the bank, calibration, and certified battery compliance) | Possible, compatibility must be checked by model/year |
| Diagnostic tools required | Network analyzer, load simulator, proprietary tools | Same, but watch for advanced monitoring connection (SNMP, relay, dry contact) |
Important during migration or replacement phase
If you’re replacing an Eaton 93E or if your fleet is nearing end-of-life, ask the right questions: parts stock, firmware support, migration options to 93PM/Eaton 9355 series, battery compatibility. GDF Technologies can conduct an onsite inventory and document all this to avoid unplanned, emergency changeovers.
Common Commissioning Errors (and How to Avoid Them)
- Accepting only a verbal report or an incomplete SAT (not enough detail, missing precise measurements, no signatures, no photo annex).
- Skipping or rushing the static bypass test (this test must be a formal, recorded, dated step).
- Ignoring advanced battery block calibration (this immediately affects VRLA or lithium module lifespan—ASC-UPS calibration is mandatory after installation or replacement by GDF).
- Signing off without reading and verifying the SAT report. Always validate the report before final sign-off with procurement or IT.
- Taking battery compatibility for granted. Always have OEM or compatible battery model/support checked (see note on compliant batteries).
- Neglecting documentation for audit or insurance (CSA/NFPA, plans/diagrams, or feedback to the manufacturer…).
What You Should Include/Specify in Your RFP or Purchase Order
- The exact list of all tests to perform (static bypass, full/partial load, firmware review, battery diagnostics…)
- Precise scheduling, buffers for contingencies, and maximum intervention deadlines (+ emergency options if applicable)
- Required SAT report content (providing a sample in advance is recommended)
- Applicable standards (NFPA, CSA, manufacturer guidelines, GDF’s own recommendations if requested)
- Professional insurance (for public or industrial buildings: require an attached certificate)
- Onsite training and user documentation to be delivered upon completion
- Post-commissioning service (what SLA for interventions after delivery)
Quick Diagnostic: Are You Ready for Compliant Commissioning?
- Do you have the UPS model/serial number and installation date ready?
- Have you shared site access plans and electrical constraints with the provider?
- Have your tender documents or purchase order included clauses about documentation, insurance, training?
- Are load banks or test equipment available onsite (if not, plan to include rental of test equipment by the provider)
- Do you know the technician identities (name, accreditation number, CV on request)?
- Is there a post-commissioning training plan for the operating team?
FAQ: Answers to Questions from Technical Managers and Public Buyers
- Can GDF Technologies be called in across Canada?
- Yes, the team operates throughout Canada, with priority and specific stocks in Montreal and Calgary for 24/7 responses and interventions scheduled according to your maintenance windows.
- What must be documented in the SAT report?
- All tests, measurements, alarms, UPS references (model, SN), real test conditions, signatures, and recommendations for upcoming maintenance. Demand an archivable digital version and on-site paper signature for audit/insurance compliance.
- Is the static bypass test absolutely necessary?
- Yes, absolutely. It’s a critical test, rarely done spontaneously yet vital in future maintenance or UPS fault scenarios.
- Can I mix new and old batteries in an existing UPS?
- Not recommended, especially for VRLA batteries. Opt for full replacement and ASC‑UPS calibration during commissioning. This helps avoid premature failure of weak modules (see details on our battery practices).
- How soon should preventative maintenance be scheduled for these models?
- Start from commissioning, then quarterly/semi-annually depending on criticality and manufacturer recommendations. See our maintenance checklist to structure your service cycles.
Concrete Next Step: What to Check or Request Before Giving the Go-Ahead to a Provider
- Review and complete your expected SAT test checklist with the IT or FM team.
- Request (and verify) a sample SAT report before signing the order.
- Share all site constraints (timing, access, safety, work permits…)
- Check insurance coverage and technical/client references most relevant to your sector.
- Schedule a quick training session for your operations/technical team after the actual commissioning.
Need to guarantee a successful commissioning (Eaton, APC, Delta, others)? We can support you on every point, from technical selection to final documentation. For more details, contact, or a sample report, reach out via GDF Technologies—emergency and scheduled services available across Canada.
