The APC Smart-UPS VT 20kVA 400V (SUVTP20KH4B4S), manufactured by Schneider Electric, is a robust three-phase uninterruptible power supply (UPS) designed for mission-critical applications in small data centers, large retail stores, regional offices, and laboratory environments. Known for its reliability, scalability, and advanced features, this UPS ensures continuous power protection for sensitive equipment. In this blog, we’ll explore its specifications, features, performance, and ideal use cases to help you determine if it’s the right solution for your power needs.
Overview
The APC Smart-UPS VT 20kVA is part of the award-winning Smart-UPS family, delivering centralized three-phase power protection with a capacity of 16kW / 20kVA. It includes four battery modules, a 5×8 start-up service, internal maintenance bypass, and parallel capability, making it a versatile choice for high-density power requirements.
Key Specifications
- Power Capacity: 16kW / 20kVA
- Input Voltage: 400V 3-phase (configurable for 380V or 415V)
- Output Voltage: 400V 3-phase (configurable for 380V or 415V); 230V single-phase supported
- Output Voltage Distortion: Less than 5% at full load
- Output Frequency: 47–53 Hz (sync to mains); 50 Hz ±0.1% (not synced)
- Topology: Double Conversion Online
- Battery Type: Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid (VRLA), maintenance-free
- Battery Voltage: ±192V (split battery referenced to neutral)
- Runtime: Approximately 18.5 minutes at full load (16kW); 46.5 minutes at half load (8kW)
- Recharge Time: ~5 hours
- Dimensions: 59.0 x 14.0 x 32.0 inches (1490 x 356 x 813 mm)
- Weight: 1127 lbs (511 kg) with four battery modules
- Efficiency: Up to 95.3% at full load
- Interface Ports: DB-9 RS-232, SmartSlot (pre-installed AP9631 Network Management Card)
- Output Connections: Hard Wire 4-wire (3PH + G), Hard Wire 5-wire (3PH + N + G), Screw Terminals
- Input Connection: Hard Wire 5-wire (3PH + N + G)
- Noise Level: 55 dB
- Certifications: C-Tick, CE, EN 50091-2, EN/IEC 62040-3, IEC 61000-3-2, IEC 61000-3-3
- Warranty: 1-year standard; extended options available
Design and Build
The Smart-UPS VT 20kVA is a tower-style UPS designed for enterprise environments, with a compact footprint (59.0 x 14.0 x 32.0 inches) compared to higher-capacity models in its series. Weighing 1127 lbs with four battery modules, it requires a stable power infrastructure and secure installation, facilitated by bolt-down brackets. The unit features a durable chassis suitable for data centers or industrial settings, with a front-panel LCD status and control console for intuitive monitoring and configuration. Its audible alarms, operating at 55 dB, provide clear notifications without excessive noise, making it suitable for office or server room environments.
The UPS includes four battery modules connected in parallel for redundancy and high availability. Hot-swappable batteries allow replacement without powering down connected equipment, and the internal maintenance bypass ensures continuous power during servicing or overload conditions, a critical feature for mission-critical applications.
Performance
The Smart-UPS VT 20kVA employs double-conversion online topology, converting incoming AC power to DC and back to AC to deliver clean, stable power free from surges, spikes, or sags. This ensures compatibility with sensitive equipment like servers, networking gear, and laboratory instruments. With an efficiency of up to 95.3% at full load, it minimizes energy waste, reducing operational costs in high-power environments.
The UPS provides a runtime of approximately 18.5 minutes at full load (16kW) and 46.5 minutes at half load (8kW), with a 5-hour recharge time. Scalable runtime is supported through additional battery modules, and parallel capability allows multiple units to be connected for increased capacity or redundancy. The dual mains input enables connection to two separate power sources, enhancing reliability. In testing, the UPS maintains stable output with less than 5% voltage distortion, ensuring consistent performance for critical loads.
Features
Power Protection and Redundancy
- Double-Conversion Topology: Isolates equipment from grid fluctuations, ensuring clean power.
- Parallel Capability: Connects multiple UPS units for increased power or redundancy.
- Dual Mains Input: Enhances availability by connecting to two power sources.
- Internal Maintenance Bypass: Supplies utility power during UPS maintenance or faults.
- Automatic Internal Bypass: Provides utility power during overloads or faults.
Management and Monitoring
- Network Management Card (AP9631): Enables remote monitoring via SNMP, web, or telnet.
- LCD Control Panel: Displays real-time status, diagnostics, and configuration options.
- Audible Alarms: Prioritized alerts for power events or system faults.
- Emergency Power Off (EPO): Allows immediate shutdown for safety.
Scalability and Serviceability
- Hot-Swappable Batteries: Ensures uninterrupted power during battery replacement.
- Modular Design: Simplifies maintenance and upgrades, reducing downtime.
- 5×8 Start-Up Service: Includes professional installation by certified technicians.
- Intelligent Battery Management: Optimizes battery performance and lifespan through automatic self-tests.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Reliable Power Protection: Double-conversion topology ensures clean, uninterrupted power.
- Scalable and Redundant: Parallel capability, dual mains input, and scalable runtime enhance flexibility.
- Advanced Management: Network card and LCD panel simplify monitoring and control.
- Long Runtime: 18.5 minutes at full load is generous for a 20kVA UPS.
- Serviceability: Hot-swappable batteries and modular design minimize downtime.
- Quiet Operation: 55 dB noise level suits office and data center environments.
Cons
- Large Footprint: Requires significant space and infrastructure.
- Weight: At 1127 lbs, installation and relocation are challenging.
- Short Warranty: 1-year standard warranty may require extended coverage.
Applications
The APC Smart-UPS VT 20kVA is ideal for:
- Small Data Centers: Protects servers, storage systems, and networking equipment.
- Large Retail Stores: Ensures uptime for point-of-sale and inventory systems.
- Regional Offices: Supports critical IT infrastructure for business continuity.
- Laboratories: Powers sensitive equipment requiring stable power.
- Healthcare Facilities: Safeguards medical devices and systems.
Its high capacity, redundancy, and long runtime make it suitable for environments where downtime is costly or unacceptable.
Conclusion
The APC Smart-UPS VT 20kVA 400V (SUVTP20KH4B4S) is a reliable, high-performance UPS designed for mission-critical environments. Its double-conversion topology, long runtime, and advanced features like dual mains input, hot-swappable batteries, and network manageability ensure continuous operation for small data centers, retail, and laboratory applications. While discontinued, refurbished units remain a viable option for cost-conscious businesses. For those seeking a modern alternative, the Galaxy VS UPS 20kW is recommended. If uptime, scalability, and reliability are priorities, the Smart-UPS VT 20kVA delivers exceptional value and peace of mind.
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