Since its founding in 1922, Tripp Lite has responded to changing technology by developing innovative products to meet the needs of its customers.
2010s: Rapid Evolution
The rapid evolution of the data center centralizes the IT function and creates a booming market for hosted and managed networks.
- Tripp Lite develops a "solution sales" structure and expands product lines to offer comprehensive data center solutions.
- New DCIM-ready platform is introduced, including products for network power management, SNMP and environmental monitoring.
- In 2016, Tripp Lite obtains a patent for an automatic transfer switch (ATS) for 3-phase applications. The new 3-phase rack-mount ATS models provide a breakthrough solution for redundancy above 5kW.
- UPS innovations include 3-phase modular UPS systems designed for true scalability in a compact form factor.
- PDU innovations include 3-phase models and the introduction of LCD touchscreens.
- Tripp Lite begins to offer Gigabit Ethernet switches, including models with PoE+ (Power over Ethernet). Innovative 1U models with a built-in PDU are also introduced.
- Cooling innovations include the first EIA-compliant rack-mounted air conditioning unit specifically designed to cool IT equipment. A cooling unit for wall-mount rack enclosures is also introduced.
- New product lines include modular network patch panels, charging stations, charging carts, reversible USB cables, TAA-approved power products, WorkWise™ standing desk solutions and medical-grade power strips with antimicrobial coating.
2000s: Specialized Solutions
The need develops for specialized power solutions for the healthcare market.
- Tripp Lite's healthcare segment grows with the development of products for use in patient care vicinities, including a medical-grade power strip with a patented protection circuit. The company also provides patient cart OEMs with mobile Tripp Lite power and becomes the market leader.
- UPS innovations include digital models with LCD screens, hot-swap modular models and 3-phase models.
- New product lines include KVM switches and award-winning cooling solutions.
1990s: 100% Availability
The transition from mainframes to multiple servers running specialized applications creates the need for 100% server availability. Growing reliance on the Internet heightens the need for uninterrupted operation.
- Tripp Lite adds more comprehensive protection features to its UPS product line, including unattended shutdown software.
- New product lines include rack enclosures, cables, connectivity solutions and power distribution units (PDUs).
1980s: Desktop Solutions
The advent of the personal computer creates a need for high-quality power protection.
- In 1980, Tripp Lite becomes the first company to manufacture a UPS system specifically designed for desktop PCs.
- In 1982, Tripp Lite introduces the Isobar® premium surge protector to provide top-of-the line surge suppression for home and office electronics.
1950s, '60s & '70s: New Markets
As sealed-beam headlights become standard equipment, Tripp Lite widens its product offering.
- In the 1950s, Tripp Lite begins to produce rotating warning lights for the police, fire and ambulance markets.
- Later, the need develops for on-board AC power in ambulances and recreational vehicles. Tripp Lite develops a line of DC-to-AC inverters and becomes the best-known manufacturer of portable inverters in the world.
1920s, '30s & '40s: A Bright Idea
Tripp Lite has its bright beginning in 1922.
- In 1922, Graham Trippe, a Chicago-area inventor, obtains a patent for a new precision-focused automobile headlight. Trippe's headlight design wins the gold medal at the Paris Exposition of Innovation in 1928 and 1929.
- The Trippe "Speed Light" becomes a successful automotive accessory, improving visibility on all types of vehicles, including fine touring cars and U.S. Army tanks during World War II.
