Interesting and informative stuff there BB. And good points made as usual.
I take your point re "
only expect the manufactureres spec if also using the manufacturers specified batteries"
- Taking the sage advice I have looked in the three Data Sheets - APC, Galatrek and Belkin. Only Galatrek (who don't exist anymore I don't think?) specified Yuasa as an example (not 'mandatory').
The others just said "12V/ 7Ah" and a physical size. I have also checked 3 othr Data Sheets from different manufs. Again, only voltage and capacity were mentioned. Sadly I haven't got all day to check every data sheet in the world - and shouldn't have to.
So, bottom line, when you are searching for batteries and you find a couple that physically fit and of the right headline specs and they say suitable-for-UPS there is the only the 'PICAXEr criterion' left i.e. the
cheapest.
Conclusion: Spend the extra and stick with the Big Boys unless you have the time/skill to experiment.
But if you want confidence that the darned thing will be working in 6 months time then stick to the Big Boys.
With the BB caveat of following any manuf's recommendations of course - assuming its actually provided.
(And assuming you have carefully filed away the Manual for rapid retrieval
)
Tightness often results in tears-at-bedtime and false economy.
Anyway, enough digression from me. If people wish to save 25% on cost but have to change batteries twice as often that's their choice.
And no doubt many people will be buying the cheapest batts for their solar systems too .... makes you wonder. Battery manufs must love tightfists.
Right, where's me sunblock..