In an era where power outages and voltage fluctuations can disrupt critical operations, the APC Smart-UPS 750VA 230V (SUA750I) offers a reliable solution for small businesses, home offices, and network environments. Manufactured by Schneider Electric’s APC brand, this line-interactive uninterruptible power supply (UPS) delivers 750VA/500W of power protection for servers, networking equipment, and sensitive electronics. In this blog, we’ll explore its specifications, design, performance, and user feedback to help you decide if the SUA750I is the right choice for your power backup needs.
Key Specifications
Here’s a detailed overview of the APC Smart-UPS 750VA (SUA750I) specifications:
- Capacity: 750VA / 500W
- Topology: Line-Interactive
- Input Voltage: 230V (adjustable range: 151-302V; default: 160-285V)
- Output Voltage: Configurable for 220, 230, or 240V
- Output Connections: 6x IEC 320 C13 (all with battery backup)
- Input Connection: IEC 320 C14
- Battery Type: Maintenance-free sealed lead-acid battery (RBC48 replacement cartridge)
- Battery Recharge Time: 3 hours
- Battery Life: 3-5 years
- Runtime: ~7 minutes at full load (500W); ~24 minutes at half load (250W)
- Transfer Time: 2-4ms typical (5ms maximum)
- Surge Protection: 320 Joules
- Dimensions: 13.7 cm (H) x 19.6 cm (W) x 37.1 cm (D)
- Weight: 13.18 kg (14.55 kg packaged)
- Communication Ports: DB-9 RS-232, SmartSlot, USB (via adapter, not included)
- Control Panel: LED status display with load and battery bar graphs
- Certifications: C-Tick, CE, GOST, VDE
- Warranty: 1-year repair or replace
- Environmental: Operates at 0-40°C; 0-95% non-condensing humidity; 0-10,000 ft altitude
These specs make the SUA750I a compact and efficient UPS for small-scale applications.
Design and Build
The APC Smart-UPS 750VA (SUA750I) features a compact tower design, measuring 13.7 x 19.6 x 37.1 cm and weighing 13.18 kg, making it easy to fit into tight spaces like home offices or small server rooms. Its sleek black enclosure is durable and professional, though it is not rack-mountable, which may limit its use in larger IT setups. The front panel includes an LED status display with bar graphs for load and battery levels, providing clear visual feedback on power conditions. Audible alarms alert users to events like power outages or low battery.
The UPS ships with a CD containing PowerChute Business Edition software, an RS-232 cable, and a user manual. USB connectivity requires an optional adapter (e.g., AP9620). The hot-swappable, user-replaceable battery allows maintenance without powering down connected devices, minimizing downtime. Schneider Electric incorporates sustainability through recyclable packaging and a take-back program for end-of-life recycling, aligning with their environmental goals.
Performance
The SUA750I uses line-interactive technology with Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR), which corrects voltage fluctuations (160-285V) without switching to battery power, extending battery life and ensuring stable output. Its pure sine wave output is ideal for sensitive electronics, such as servers, networking gear, and devices with active Power Factor Correction (PFC) power supplies, preventing equipment damage during power events.
At full load (500W), the UPS provides approximately 7 minutes of runtime, sufficient for safe shutdowns during brief outages, while at half load (250W), it extends to ~24 minutes, allowing time for generator activation or system backups. The 3-hour recharge time ensures quick recovery. The UPS offers network-grade power conditioning with a 320-Joule surge energy rating and full-time multi-pole noise filtering (0.3% IEEE surge let-through), protecting against surges, spikes, and electrical noise. Users report reliable performance in areas with unstable power, with one noting seamless operation powering a small server and router during frequent outages.
Key Features
The SUA750I is equipped with features that enhance its reliability and usability:
- Pure Sine Wave Output: Mimics utility power, ensuring compatibility with sensitive electronics.
- Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): Stabilizes voltage fluctuations, reducing battery wear.
- Intelligent Battery Management: Optimizes battery performance through temperature-compensated charging and automatic self-tests, with a replace battery indicator for maintenance.
- PowerChute Software: Supports remote monitoring, safe shutdowns, and configuration via RS-232 (or USB with adapter).
- SmartSlot: Allows optional network management cards (e.g., AP9630) for advanced remote monitoring, sold separately.
- Cold-Start Capability: Provides temporary battery power during complete outages.
- Surge Protection: Delivers 320 Joules of surge energy rating and noise filtering for robust protection.
These features make the SUA750I suitable for protecting small servers, workstations, VoIP systems, and home office setups.
Compatibility and Software
The SUA750I is compatible with Windows, macOS (with configuration), and select Linux systems via RS-232 or USB (with an adapter). PowerChute Business Edition enables safe shutdowns, real-time monitoring, and customizable settings like voltage sensitivity and alarm delays. The SmartSlot supports optional network management cards for advanced IT environments, though these are not included. Users appreciate its plug-and-play setup, though some note the need to purchase a USB adapter separately for modern systems.
User Experiences
The SUA750I has a strong reputation, with APC’s Smart-UPS line trusted globally. Users praise its compact size, reliability, and ease of use for small-scale setups. One user reported using it to protect a home office PC and modem, maintaining uptime during power fluctuations. The quiet operation is a plus, though fan noise may be audible during battery mode. Criticisms include:
- Discontinued model, with the SMT750IC as the recommended replacement.
- Short runtime at full load (~7 minutes), requiring external battery packs for longer outages.
- USB connectivity requires a separate adapter.
- Not rack-mountable, limiting use in server racks.
- Inconsistent packaging, with some units missing cables.
The 1-year warranty and availability of replacement batteries (RBC48) ensure long-term reliability, with users advised to replace batteries every 3-5 years.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Pure sine wave output for sensitive electronics
- AVR stabilizes voltage and extends battery life
- Compact design (13.18 kg) fits small spaces
- User-friendly LED display and PowerChute software
- SmartSlot for optional network management
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Short runtime at full load (~7 minutes)
- USB connectivity requires a separate adapter
- Not rack-mountable
- Occasional packaging inconsistencies
Conclusion
The APC Smart-UPS 750VA 230V (SUA750I) is a compact, reliable, and cost-effective UPS for small businesses, home offices, and network environments. Its line-interactive topology, pure sine wave output, and intelligent battery management ensure robust power protection for critical equipment. While its discontinued status, limited runtime at full load, and lack of rack-mount capability may be drawbacks, its affordability and trusted APC brand make it a solid choice for basic power protection in 230V regions.
For those seeking a modern alternative, consider the APC Smart-UPS SMT750IC. CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES for availability and pricing, ensuring all accessories (e.g., cables) are included. Regular battery maintenance every 3-5 years is recommended to maximize performance and longevity.