In the realm of enterprise power protection, where every second of downtime can cost thousands, extending battery life isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. The APC Smart-UPS SRT 96V 3kVA Battery Pack (SRT96BP) from Schneider Electric steps in as a game-changer for the SRT series of online UPS systems. This external battery module is purpose-built for 3kVA models, allowing you to daisy-chain up to 10 packs for dramatically prolonged runtime during outages. Whether safeguarding data centers or critical servers, the SRT96BP delivers scalable, reliable power extension without compromising on safety or efficiency. In this blog, we’ll unpack its specs, design, features, and real-world value to help you see why it’s a must-have for high-availability setups.
Key Specifications at a Glance
The SRT96BP is a compact, high-capacity add-on that integrates seamlessly with APC’s SRT lineup. Here’s a breakdown of its core attributes:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | Sealed Lead-Acid |
| Battery Voltage | 96V |
| Capacity | Equivalent to 2 RBC modules (APCRBC152 replacement) |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 17.01 in (432 mm) x 3.35 in (85 mm) x 23.39 in (594 mm) |
| Weight | 89.5 lb (40.6 kg) |
| Mounting Mode | Rack/Tower (rack kit optional) |
| Operating Temperature | 32–104°F (0–40°C) |
| Storage Temperature | 5–113°F (-15–45°C) |
| Relative Humidity | 0–95% (non-condensing) |
| Scalability | Up to 10 packs connectable |
| Warranty | 1 year (repair or replace) |
| Included Accessories | Documentation CD, User Manual, Warranty Card |
| Environmental Compliance | EU RoHS, REACH, California Proposition 65 |
| Carbon Footprint | 204 kg CO2 eq. (total lifecycle) |
These specs highlight its robustness for demanding environments, with eco-friendly packaging using at least 70% recycled cardboard.
Design and Build: Compact Power in a Professional Package
The SRT96BP embodies APC’s commitment to practical engineering, sporting a sleek black enclosure that’s as functional as it is unobtrusive. At just 3.35 inches wide, it slips easily into rack spaces or stacks neatly in tower configurations alongside your SRT UPS. The 17-inch height aligns perfectly with 1U rack units, and its 89.5-pound heft underscores the dense energy storage within—yet integrated handles and a lightweight frame make installation straightforward.
Hot-swappable design means you can add or replace packs without powering down, minimizing disruptions. The lead-acid batteries are sealed and maintenance-free, with built-in safeguards against overcharge, deep discharge, and thermal runaway. Ventilation slots ensure safe heat dissipation, and the unit’s grounded metal chassis complies with global safety standards like UL and IEC. Overall, it’s built for longevity in 24/7 operations, from climate-controlled rooms to edge computing sites.
Standout Features That Drive Reliability
The SRT96BP isn’t just extra batteries—it’s an intelligent extension of your UPS ecosystem:
- Scalable Runtime Expansion: Connect up to 10 units in parallel to multiply backup time, turning minutes into hours for critical loads. This modularity lets you tailor capacity to your exact needs without overbuying.
- Advanced Embedded Monitoring: Real-time tracking at the cell, module, and pack level via the UPS interface provides insights into health, charge status, and predicted runtime—empowering proactive maintenance.
- Seamless Compatibility: Optimized for 3kVA SRT models like the SRT3000XLI, it plugs in via a dedicated port for zero-configuration setup. Supports graceful shutdowns through PowerChute software.
- User-Replaceable Batteries: Swap out the APCRBC152 cartridges effortlessly, extending the pack’s service life up to 3–5 years under normal conditions.
- Eco and Safety Focus: Features like temperature-compensated charging prolong battery life, while compliance with WEEE and take-back programs ensures responsible end-of-life handling.
These elements make it a forward-looking choice for evolving IT infrastructures.
Performance in Action
When paired with a base SRT3000XLI (offering ~5 minutes at full 2700W load), a single SRT96BP roughly doubles runtime to 10–12 minutes, with each additional pack adding proportional extension—up to hours with a full string of 10. At half load (1350W), expect even more impressive gains, often exceeding 30 minutes per pack. Users in data-heavy environments report consistent performance, with the monitoring tools alerting to degradation early, preventing surprises during blackouts.
In tests, recharge times align with the UPS’s ~3-hour standard, and the hot-swap feature shines for zero-downtime additions. Noise is negligible, and efficiency remains high, making it suitable for quiet server rooms. Real-world deployments in telecom and finance highlight its role in achieving 99.999% uptime targets.
Ideal Applications: Powering Critical Continuity
The SRT96BP excels in scenarios demanding extended autonomy:
- Data Centers and Colocation: Scales runtime for virtualized servers and storage during prolonged outages.
- Enterprise IT Rooms: Protects edge servers, virtualization hosts, and backups in branch offices.
- Telecom and Networking: Ensures VoIP, routers, and switches stay online for seamless connectivity.
- Healthcare Facilities: Supports diagnostic equipment and electronic records with reliable extension.
- Industrial Controls: Safeguards PLCs and SCADA systems in power-unstable regions.
If your 3kVA SRT setup needs more than basic backup, this pack is indispensable.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Value
Pros:
- Dramatically extends runtime with easy scalability up to 10 units.
- Intelligent monitoring for predictive maintenance and peace of mind.
- Hot-swappable and user-replaceable for minimal downtime.
- Robust build with strong environmental compliance and warranty.
- Cost-effective way to future-proof existing SRT investments.
Cons:
- Substantial 89.5 lb weight requires two-person handling for installation.
- Requires compatible SRT 3kVA models— not universal.
- Initial cost adds up with multiple packs for maximum extension.
- Lead-acid tech, while reliable, isn’t as eco-lightweight as lithium alternatives.
The pros overwhelmingly favor it for serious power users.
Final Thoughts: A Smart Investment in Uptime
The APC Smart-UPS SRT 96V 3kVA Battery Pack (SRT96BP) transforms your SRT UPS from a short-term shield into a long-haul fortress, offering flexible, monitored runtime that scales with your ambitions. With its durable design, seamless integration, and commitment to sustainability, it’s an essential upgrade for any mission-critical application. As power demands grow, investing in the SRT96BP ensures you’re always one step ahead of the outage. CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES for compatibility checks and bundles.
Got experiences with battery extensions? Share in the comments below!