In today’s technology-dependent world, ensuring uninterrupted power for servers, networking equipment, and other critical systems is paramount. The APC Smart-UPS 5000VA 230V Rackmount/Tower (SUA5000RMI5U), manufactured by Schneider Electric, is a high-capacity, line-interactive uninterruptible power supply (UPS) designed to deliver reliable, network-grade power protection. This blog delves into the features, specifications, benefits, and ideal applications of the SUA5000RMI5U, providing insights for IT professionals and businesses seeking robust power solutions.
Overview of the APC Smart-UPS 5000VA (SUA5000RMI5U)
The APC Smart-UPS 5000VA is a versatile, line-interactive UPS with a 5000VA (4000W) power capacity, suitable for both rackmount and tower configurations. Engineered for high-performance environments, it protects critical equipment like servers, routers, switches, and telecommunications systems from power outages, surges, and voltage fluctuations. With its 5U rack height, advanced power management features, and network-grade power conditioning, the SUA5000RMI5U is ideal for data centers, server rooms, and enterprise IT setups.
Key Specifications
Below are the key technical specifications of the APC Smart-UPS 5000VA (SUA5000RMI5U):
- Output Power Capacity: 4000 Watts / 5000 VA
- Nominal Output Voltage: 230V (configurable for 220V or 240V)
- Output Connections: 8x IEC 320 C13, 2x IEC 320 C19, 4x IEC Jumpers (all with battery backup)
- Output Voltage Distortion: Less than 5% at full load
- Output Frequency: 47–53 Hz for 50 Hz nominal, 57–63 Hz for 60 Hz nominal
- Topology: Line Interactive
- Waveform Type: Sine wave
- Transfer Time: 2ms typical
- Input Voltage: 230V nominal (adjustable range: 151–302V)
- Input Frequency: 50/60 Hz ± 3 Hz (auto-sensing)
- Input Connections: Hard Wire 3-wire (L, N, G)
- Battery Type: Maintenance-free sealed lead-acid battery with suspended electrolyte (leakproof)
- Replacement Battery: RBC43
- Typical Recharge Time: 3 hours
- Battery Life: 3–5 years
- Backup Time: 9.2 minutes at full load (4000W), 26.7 minutes at half load (2000W)
- Surge Energy Rating: 480 Joules
- Interface Ports: DB-9 RS-232, USB, SmartSlot
- Control Panel: LED status display with load and battery bar graphs, On Line, On Battery, Replace Battery, and Overload indicators
- Audible Alarm: Alerts for on-battery, low battery, and overload conditions
- Dimensions: 222 mm (H) x 483 mm (W) x 660 mm (D) (5U rack height)
- Weight: 97.7 kg (215.4 lbs)
- Certifications: C-tick, CE, EN 50091-1, EN 50091-2, GOST, VDE
- Warranty: 2 years repair or replace
These specifications highlight the SUA5000RMI5U’s capability to handle high-power loads in demanding environments.
Key Features and Benefits
The APC Smart-UPS 5000VA offers a suite of advanced features that ensure reliability, efficiency, and manageability:
1. Line-Interactive Topology with AVR
The SUA5000RMI5U employs line-interactive technology with automatic voltage regulation (AVR), boosting low input voltage by up to 30% and trimming high voltage by up to 12% without battery use. This extends battery life and ensures stable power delivery.
2. Network-Grade Power Conditioning
With a 480-Joule surge energy rating, the UPS protects equipment from surges, spikes, and electrical noise. Its pure sine wave output ensures compatibility with sensitive electronics, including servers with active power factor correction (PFC) power supplies.
3. Intelligent Battery Management
APC’s patented intelligent battery management system optimizes battery performance through precision temperature-compensated charging. Automatic self-tests and early-warning battery failure notifications enable proactive maintenance, reducing downtime risks.
4. Hot-Swappable Batteries
The UPS supports hot-swappable battery modules, allowing battery replacement without powering down connected equipment, ensuring continuous operation during maintenance.
5. Advanced Connectivity and Management
Equipped with DB-9 RS-232, USB, and SmartSlot interfaces, the SUA5000RMI5U integrates with APC’s PowerChute Business Edition software for safe system shutdowns, power monitoring, and remote management. The SmartSlot supports optional accessories like network management cards for enhanced control.
6. High Efficiency
The UPS features a patented green operating mode with efficiencies over 97%, reducing energy costs and environmental impact. It is Energy Star certified, making it an eco-friendly choice for businesses.
7. Robust Runtime
With a battery capacity of 1632 volt-amp-hours, the SUA5000RMI5U provides 9.2 minutes of runtime at full load and 26.7 minutes at half load, offering ample time for safe shutdowns or generator activation during outages. Some sources note an estimated runtime of up to 4 hours and 22 minutes under typical load conditions, though this may vary based on load and configuration.
8. Flexible Rackmount/Tower Design
The 5U rackmount/tower form factor offers versatility for various IT environments, with included rack mounting hardware and support rails for easy integration into server racks or standalone setups.
9. User-Friendly Interface
An intuitive LCD interface and LED status display provide clear information on load, battery status, and operational modes. Over 15 programmable settings, including switched outlet group control, allow customization for specific applications.
Ideal Use Cases
The APC Smart-UPS 5000VA is designed for high-demand applications, including:
- Data Centers and Server Rooms: Protects high-power servers, storage systems, and networking equipment, ensuring uptime and data integrity.
- Telecommunications Systems: Safeguards communication infrastructure, maintaining connectivity during power disruptions.
- Point-of-Sale Systems: Ensures continuous operation for retail and banking systems, preventing transaction losses.
- Industrial Environments: Protects control systems and sensitive electronics from power fluctuations in manufacturing or industrial settings.
- Critical IT Infrastructure: Ideal for blade servers, server appliances, and rack-mounted network switches in enterprise environments.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
To optimize the performance of the SUA5000RMI5U, consider the following:
- Proper Placement: Install the UPS in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating. Its 97.7 kg weight requires a sturdy rack or surface for support.
- Battery Connection: Ensure secure battery connections to avoid power interruptions. The hot-swappable RBC43 battery simplifies maintenance.
- Software Integration: Use PowerChute software to monitor performance, configure settings, and enable automatic shutdowns during extended outages.
- Regular Maintenance: Replace batteries every 3–5 years or as indicated by self-test notifications to maintain reliability.
- Load Management: Connect only critical devices to optimize runtime and avoid overloading the UPS.
User Experience and Reliability
The APC Smart-UPS 5000VA is part of a trusted lineup with over 25 million units sold worldwide, making it a benchmark for network-grade power protection. Its robust design, sine wave output, and advanced management features ensure compatibility with a wide range of devices. The UPS is safety-agency approved, meeting rigorous industry standards for deployment confidence. However, its 5U rack height and significant weight may require careful planning for installation, and some sources indicate that the SUA5000RMI5U may no longer be available in certain regions, so verify availability with local suppliers or Schneider Electric.
Conclusion
The APC Smart-UPS 5000VA 230V Rackmount/Tower (SUA5000RMI5U) is a high-performance, reliable UPS tailored for businesses and IT environments requiring robust power protection. Its line-interactive topology, intelligent battery management, and flexible rackmount/tower design make it an excellent choice for safeguarding critical infrastructure, from servers to telecommunications systems. With a proven track record, Energy Star certification, and advanced manageability, the SUA5000RMI5U offers peace of mind by ensuring uptime and data integrity.
For more information or to check availability, CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES. If you’re considering the SUA5000RMI5U or have questions about UPS deployment, share your thoughts in the comments below!