In an age where power disruptions can halt operations, corrupt data, or damage equipment, a dependable uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is critical for businesses and IT professionals. The APC Smart-UPS 3000VA LCD 230V (SMT3000I), from Schneider Electric’s renowned APC lineup, offers robust line-interactive protection tailored for 230V environments in regions like Europe, Asia, and Africa. With a blend of advanced features, user-friendly design, and scalability, this tower UPS is ideal for small to medium-sized enterprises, server rooms, and network closets. In this blog, we’ll explore the SMT3000I’s key features, technical specifications, ideal applications, and why it’s a smart investment in 2025 for ensuring uptime amid rising grid instability.
Key Features: Smart, Efficient, and User-Centric
The SMT3000I employs line-interactive topology, which corrects voltage fluctuations through Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) without relying on battery power, preserving runtime for true outages. It delivers a pure sine wave output, ensuring compatibility with sensitive electronics like servers and networking gear. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): Boosts low voltages and bucks high ones, maintaining stable 230V output without battery drain. This is vital in areas with frequent brownouts, which account for ~70% of power issues globally.
- Pure Sine Wave Output: Unlike budget UPSs with modified sine waves, the SMT3000I provides clean power, reducing stress on active PFC power supplies in modern IT equipment.
- Intuitive LCD Interface: A multilingual graphical display offers real-time data on load, battery status, runtime, and diagnostics, simplifying management and troubleshooting.
- Intelligent Battery Management: APC’s proprietary system optimizes charging, predicts battery replacement needs, and extends lifespan (typically 3-5 years). Hot-swappable batteries allow replacements without powering down.
- Network Management Capabilities: Optional Network Management Card (e.g., AP9641) enables remote monitoring via SNMP, HTTP, or PowerChute software for automated shutdowns and alerts. USB and serial ports are included for local connectivity.
- Green Mode: Bypasses unused electrical components during stable power conditions, achieving up to 97% efficiency to lower energy costs while maintaining protection.
These features make the SMT3000I a versatile, future-ready solution for businesses scaling their IT infrastructure.
Technical Specifications: Power and Flexibility in a Compact Form
Rated at 3000VA/2700W, the SMT3000I is designed for high-density loads in a space-saving tower form factor (rack-mountable with optional kits). Its lightweight design and straightforward setup cater to IT admins and small business owners.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Power Rating | 3000VA / 2700W |
| Input Voltage | 160-286V AC (adjustable via AVR); 50/60 Hz auto-sensing |
| Output Voltage | 230V AC ±5% (pure sine wave on battery); Configurable: 220/240V |
| Outlets | 8x IEC 320 C13, 1x IEC 320 C19 (all battery-backed and surge-protected) |
| Form Factor | Tower; Dimensions: 17.0 x 7.7 x 21.5 inches (432 x 196 x 546 mm) |
| Weight | 116 lbs (52.5 kg) |
| Efficiency | Up to 97% in Green Mode; ~95% in normal operation |
| Runtime (Full Load) | ~5.1 minutes (2700W); ~14.1 minutes at half load (1350W) |
| Connectivity | USB, RJ-45 serial, SmartSlot (for optional NMC), EPO |
| Battery | Sealed lead-acid (RBC55); 3-6 hour recharge; 48V nominal |
| Surge Energy Rating | 365 Joules |
| Noise Level | <45 dBA at 1m |
The unit features a 3-wire IEC-320 C20 input and supports extended runtime with external battery packs (e.g., SMX120BP), though this is less common for its capacity. It’s RoHS-compliant and ENERGY STAR certified, aligning with eco-conscious IT strategies.
Ideal Applications: Powering Critical Small to Medium Setups
The SMT3000I is tailored for environments where reliable power and scalability are paramount:
- Small to Medium Server Rooms: Protects file servers, virtualization hosts, or NAS systems in offices with 10-50 employees, ensuring data integrity during outages.
- Networking Infrastructure: Keeps switches, routers, and VoIP systems online, preventing communication disruptions in retail, healthcare, or remote branches.
- Point-of-Sale and Workstations: Safeguards POS terminals or high-end PCs in environments like clinics or design studios, where power flickers could interrupt transactions or workflows.
- Home Labs and Media Centers: Appeals to tech enthusiasts running high-performance servers or AV setups, offering clean power and surge protection.
Recent chatter on platforms like X highlights its value, with resellers in South Africa and India noting its “reliable performance” for SMEs. Users praise its quiet operation and easy setup, though some wish the Network Management Card was included by default.
Why Choose the SMT3000I? Value Meets Performance
The SMT3000I delivers enterprise-grade features at a mid-tier price, making it a cost-effective choice for growing businesses. Its AVR and pure sine wave output protect equipment from power irregularities, which cause ~80% of hardware failures in unstable grids. The Green Mode slashes energy costs, and the intuitive LCD reduces reliance on external tools. A 2-year warranty with advance replacement ensures peace of mind, and the global availability of RBC55 batteries simplifies maintenance.
Compared to APC’s double-conversion SRT series, the SMT3000I is less robust for extreme conditions but excels for cost-conscious deployments needing reliable line-interactive protection. In 2025, with energy prices climbing and grid reliability waning in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, its efficiency and uptime assurance are critical.
Final Thoughts: Empower Your Infrastructure with Confidence
The APC Smart-UPS 3000VA LCD 230V (SMT3000I) combines power, intelligence, and affordability, making it a go-to for businesses fortifying their IT backbone. Whether you’re shielding servers or ensuring network uptime, it’s a proven performer. CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES for pricing and configurations to secure your setup today.
What’s your biggest power protection challenge? Drop a comment—let’s discuss!