LoadCairn / comparison guide
LoadCairn vs vendor UPS runtime calculators
A vendor UPS runtime calculator is a manufacturer tool that estimates runtime for that vendor’s UPS models. LoadCairn gives a vendor-neutral planning estimate with the formula shown. They answer different questions, and most projects need both.
Comparison table
| Criteria | LoadCairn | Vendor runtime tools |
|---|---|---|
| Question it answers | Roughly how much runtime will this load get from a battery bank this size? | How long will this specific model run at this load? |
| Method shown | Formula, step-by-step trace and assumptions | Usually the result only |
| Battery model | Usable energy × efficiency; no chemistry-specific Peukert or discharge-rate curve | The manufacturer's discharge data for that model |
| Vendor-neutral | Yes | No, their own product line |
| Save, PDF, CSV | Pro plan | Varies by vendor |
When to use each
Choose the right planning tool.
Use LoadCairn early: comparing battery options, sanity-checking a quote, or explaining a runtime number in a review. Use the vendor tool once you've picked a model - its discharge curves beat any generic formula for that unit.