ABSTRACT: p>This Generic Requirements document (GR) presents generic criteria for Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid Batteries (VRLAs) that are intended to function seamlessly with DC power plants and provide reliable backup power to load equipment located in a network environment of a typical telecommunications service provider. VRLA batteries compliant with the criteria in this document are recommended for deployment in Central Offices and Data Centers, and the Outside Plant (OSP) at locations such as Controlled Environmental Vaults (CEVs), Electronic Equipment Enclosures (EEEs), and huts, and in uncontrolled structures such as cabinets.

GR-4228 is designed to:

• Simplify the complexities associated with product introduction, qualification, and deployment by providing a common framework for evaluating and qualifying various VRLAs. The framework is a three-level compliance system that qualifies VRLAs according to general product, safety, performance, and service life generic criteria.
• Help ensure robust battery design and manufacturing early in the product's life cycle.
• Provide functional design and technical guidelines for VRLAs.
• Present rationale for determining VRLA service life.
• Provide a comprehensive set of generic requirements for VRLA batteries, which includes traditional NEBS testing, battery safety requirements, battery performance parameters, and life testing.