APC Smart-UPS 3000VA LCD 230V (SMT3000I): Reliable Power Protection for Critical Systems

The APC Smart-UPS 3000VA LCD 230V (SMT3000I) is a high-performance, line-interactive uninterruptible power supply (UPS) designed to deliver robust power protection for servers, networking equipment, and sensitive electronics. Part of APC by Schneider Electric’s acclaimed Smart-UPS lineup, this model combines advanced features, energy efficiency, and intuitive management to ensure business continuity in small to medium-sized IT environments, home offices, and retail settings. In this blog, we’ll explore the key features, benefits, and applications of the SMT3000I, highlighting why it’s a trusted choice for safeguarding critical systems.

Overview of the APC Smart-UPS 3000VA LCD 230V

The SMT3000I offers a power capacity of 3000VA/2700W, making it ideal for protecting high-power devices in regions with 230V power systems. Its line-interactive topology, pure sine wave output, and intelligent battery management ensure clean, stable power during outages, surges, and voltage fluctuations. The tower form factor, coupled with an intuitive LCD interface, provides ease of use and flexibility for small server rooms, network closets, and professional workstations. With over 25 million Smart-UPS units sold globally, the SMT3000I upholds APC’s reputation for reliability and performance.

Key Features of the SMT3000I

1. Line-Interactive Topology with AVR

The SMT3000I employs line-interactive technology with Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) to correct low and high voltage conditions without switching to battery power. This ensures higher system availability and extends battery life, making it ideal for areas with unstable power, such as parts of Africa, Asia, or Europe. The UPS maintains a pure sine wave output, ensuring compatibility with sensitive electronics and active power factor corrected (PFC) power supplies.

2. High Power Capacity

With a 3000VA/2700W capacity, the SMT3000I supports demanding loads like servers, storage systems, and networking gear. It provides a nominal output voltage of 230V (configurable to 220V or 240V) and features 8x IEC 320 C13 and 1x IEC 320 C19 output connections, plus 2x IEC jumpers for battery backup. The input connection is an IEC 320 C20, with a wide input voltage range of 151–302V (adjustable to 141–314V) for main operations.

3. Intuitive LCD Interface

The SMT3000I features a multifunction LCD status and control console, offering clear visibility into key parameters like input/output voltage, load capacity, battery status, and estimated runtime. Users can configure settings locally, including switched outlet group control for selective load management, enhancing usability and control.

4. Intelligent Battery Management

The UPS uses maintenance-free, sealed lead-acid batteries with suspended electrolyte, ensuring leakproof operation. APC’s intelligent battery management system optimizes battery performance and lifespan (3–5 years) through temperature-compensated charging and periodic self-tests. Hot-swappable, user-replaceable batteries (RBC43) allow replacements without powering down, with a typical recharge time of 3 hours.

5. Advanced Management and Connectivity

The SMT3000I includes USB, serial (DB-9 RS-232), and SmartSlot interfaces for optional management cards (e.g., AP9630 or AP9631 for network monitoring). The included PowerChute Business Edition software enables graceful shutdowns of servers and workstations, supporting virtualized environments. The UPS integrates with APC’s EcoStruxure IT or third-party management platforms for centralized monitoring.

6. Green Mode for Energy Efficiency

The SMT3000I features a patented green operating mode, achieving efficiencies up to 97.6%, earning it Energy Star certification. This bypasses unused electrical components during stable power conditions, reducing energy costs without compromising protection.

7. Robust Design and Surge Protection

The UPS has a compact tower design (435 mm H x 197 mm W x 544 mm D, 52.5 kg), suitable for small spaces. It offers full-time multi-pole noise filtering with 0.3% IEEE surge let-through and zero clamping response time, meeting UL 1449 standards. Resettable circuit breakers and front-access servicing simplify maintenance, while safety agency approvals (CE, EAC, EN/IEC 62040-1, EN/IEC 62040-2) ensure compliance.

8. Audible Alarms and Notifications

Customizable audible alarms and LED indicators provide real-time alerts for power events, battery status, and system faults. Predictive failure notifications allow proactive battery replacement, minimizing downtime.

Benefits of the APC Smart-UPS 3000VA LCD 230V

  • Reliability: Pure sine wave output and AVR ensure clean, stable power, protecting sensitive equipment from power disturbances.
  • Ease of Use: The intuitive LCD interface, hot-swappable batteries, and front-access servicing simplify operation and maintenance.
  • Cost Efficiency: High efficiency (97.6%) and intelligent battery management reduce energy and maintenance costs.
  • Flexibility: Multiple output connections and management options support diverse applications, from servers to retail systems.
  • Peace of Mind: A 2-year repair-or-replace warranty and APC’s global reputation ensure long-term reliability.

Applications

The SMT3000I is ideal for:

  • Small to Medium Businesses: Protects servers, network switches, and storage devices in small server rooms or network closets.
  • Home Offices: Ensures uninterrupted power for workstations, NAS devices, and home entertainment systems.
  • Retail and Finance: Powers point-of-sale systems, ATMs, and payment terminals to maintain transactions during outages.
  • Healthcare: Supports non-critical medical equipment and lab systems requiring stable power.
  • Education: Safeguards computer labs and networking infrastructure in schools and universities.

Technical Specifications

  • Output:
    • Max Configurable Power: 2700W / 3000VA
    • Output Voltage: 230V (configurable to 220V or 240V)
    • Output Frequency: 50/60 Hz ± 3 Hz (auto-sensing)
    • Waveform: Sine wave
    • Output Connections: 8x IEC 320 C13, 1x IEC 320 C19, 2x IEC Jumpers
  • Input:
    • Nominal Input Voltage: 230V
    • Input Frequency: 50/60 Hz ± 3 Hz
    • Input Voltage Range: 151–302V (adjustable to 141–314V)
    • Input Connection: IEC 320 C20
  • Batteries & Runtime:
    • Battery Type: Maintenance-free sealed lead-acid
    • Typical Recharge Time: 3 hours
    • Battery Life: 3–5 years
    • Replacement Battery: RBC43
    • Runtime: ~6 min at full load (2700W), ~18 min at half load (1350W)
  • Physical:
    • Dimensions: 435 mm H x 197 mm W x 544 mm D
    • Weight: 52.5 kg
    • Form Factor: Tower
  • Environmental:
    • Operating Temperature: 0–40°C
    • Operating Humidity: 0–95% (non-condensing)
    • Audible Noise: 53 dBA at 1 meter
    • Online Thermal Dissipation: 348 BTU/hr
  • Conformance:
    • Approvals: CE, EAC, EN/IEC 62040-1, EN/IEC 62040-2, Energy Star
    • RoHS: Compliant

What’s Included

  • CD with PowerChute Business Edition software
  • Smart UPS signaling RS-232 cable
  • USB cable
  • User manual
  • Documentation CD

User Feedback

Users commend the SMT3000I for its reliability, ease of setup, and clear LCD interface. The pure sine wave output is praised for compatibility with high-end servers and networking equipment. Some note the unit’s weight (52.5 kg) as a consideration for installation, but its performance and battery life are consistently rated highly.

Conclusion

The APC Smart-UPS 3000VA LCD 230V (SMT3000I) is a versatile and reliable UPS that delivers premium power protection for small to medium-sized businesses, home offices, and IT environments. Its line-interactive topology, pure sine wave output, and advanced management features ensure uninterrupted power and operational continuity. Backed by APC’s industry-leading reputation and a 2-year warranty, the SMT3000I is a cost-effective solution for safeguarding critical systems. For more details or to purchase, CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES.