The APC Smart-UPS 750VA LCD 230V (SMT750I) is a compact and reliable uninterruptible power supply (UPS) designed to provide power protection for small offices, home offices, and critical IT equipment. Manufactured by APC by Schneider Electric, a trusted leader in power management solutions, this line-interactive UPS ensures clean and stable power, safeguarding devices from outages, surges, and voltage fluctuations. In this blog, we’ll explore the specifications, features, performance, and ideal use cases of the SMT750I to help you decide if it’s the right UPS for your needs.
Key Specifications
- Model: SMT750I
- Capacity: 750VA / 500W
- Topology: Line-Interactive
- Input Voltage: 230V (configurable for 220V or 240V)
- Input Connections: IEC-320 C14
- Output Connections: 6x IEC 320 C13 (all with battery backup)
- Output Voltage: 230V
- Output Waveform: Pure Sine Wave
- Transfer Time: 6ms typical, 10ms maximum
- Input Frequency: 50/60 Hz ± 3 Hz (auto-sensing)
- Input Voltage Range: 151–302V (adjustable), 160–286V (default)
- Battery Type: Maintenance-free sealed lead-acid, hot-swappable
- Typical Backup Time: 4.6 minutes at full load (500W), 15.8 minutes at half load (250W)
- Dimensions: 369 mm (H) x 138 mm (W) x 358 mm (D)
- Weight: 13.18 kg (29 lbs)
- Interfaces: USB, Serial (RS-232), SmartSlot
- Display: Multifunction LCD status and control console
- Warranty: 3 years (repair or replace, excluding battery), 2 years for battery
The SMT750I is a tower-configured UPS with a compact design, making it ideal for small spaces while delivering robust power protection.
Key Features
1. Line-Interactive Topology with AVR
The SMT750I uses line-interactive technology with Boost and Trim Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR), correcting voltage fluctuations without relying on the battery. This extends battery life and ensures high availability, particularly in regions with unstable power grids. The pure sine wave output guarantees compatibility with sensitive electronics, such as workstations, routers, and power-factor-corrected (PFC) power supplies.
2. Compact Power Capacity
With a 750VA/500W capacity, the SMT750I is designed for small-scale applications. It features:
- 6x IEC C13 outlets, all with battery backup and surge protection.
- IEC-320 C14 input for compatibility with standard power cords.
This capacity is sufficient for protecting a single workstation, NAS device, or small networking setup.
3. Intuitive LCD Interface
The multifunction LCD display provides real-time information on UPS status, including input/output voltage, load percentage, battery charge, and estimated runtime. Users can configure settings directly via the display’s navigation keys, with support for multiple languages. The LCD also shows a predictive battery replacement date, aiding proactive maintenance planning.
4. Advanced Management and Monitoring
The SMT750I includes PowerChute Business Edition software for safe system shutdowns and UPS management. Connectivity options include:
- USB and RS-232 ports for local management.
- SmartSlot for optional management cards (e.g., AP9630 or AP9631 Network Management Card) for remote monitoring via web or network management software.
- SmartConnect (available in SMT750IC model) for cloud-based monitoring through a secure web portal, providing status updates and alerts.
These features make the UPS easy to manage, even for users with limited technical expertise.
5. Energy Efficiency
The SMT750I is ENERGY STAR certified and features a Green Mode that bypasses unused electrical components during stable power conditions, achieving efficiencies up to 97%. This reduces energy costs and heat output, making it an eco-friendly choice for small offices or home setups.
6. Robust Battery Management
The UPS uses a hot-swappable, maintenance-free sealed lead-acid battery (replaceable with APC RBC48 cartridge), allowing replacement without powering down connected devices. Key battery features include:
- Temperature-compensated charging to extend battery life (typically 3–5 years).
- Automatic self-tests to ensure reliability.
- Disconnected battery notification and low battery alarm for timely maintenance.
7. Comprehensive Power Protection
The SMT750I offers network-grade power conditioning, including:
- AVR to stabilize voltage fluctuations.
- Surge protection against lightning strikes and power surges.
- Multi-pole noise filtering (0.7% IEEE surge let-through) to protect sensitive electronics.
It also supports cold-start capability, allowing temporary battery power during outages without utility power, useful for emergency scenarios.
8. Compact and Lightweight Design
At 13.18 kg and with a slim footprint (138 mm width), the SMT750I is easy to install in small spaces, such as under a desk or in a network closet. Its front-access servicing simplifies maintenance, making it user-friendly for non-technical users.
Performance
The SMT750I delivers reliable performance for small-scale applications:
- Backup Time: Provides ~4.6 minutes at full load (500W) and ~15.8 minutes at half load (250W), sufficient for safe shutdowns or bridging short outages.
- Transfer Time: A typical transfer time of 6ms (maximum 10ms) ensures seamless switching to battery power, minimizing disruption to connected devices.
- Power Quality: The pure sine wave output ensures compatibility with modern IT equipment, preventing issues with PFC power supplies.
User feedback highlights the UPS’s stable performance during power fluctuations, with the AVR effectively handling voltage sags and surges without battery activation. Its compact size and quiet operation (minimal fan noise) make it suitable for office environments.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Reliable Power Protection: Line-interactive topology with AVR and pure sine wave output ensures compatibility and stability.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to install in small spaces at 13.18 kg.
- User-Friendly: Intuitive LCD and PowerChute software simplify monitoring and management.
- Energy Efficient: Green Mode and ENERGY STAR certification reduce operating costs.
- Hot-Swappable Battery: Allows maintenance without downtime.
- Trusted Brand: APC’s reputation and 3-year warranty provide peace of mind.
- Versatile Connectivity: Multiple output options and SmartSlot for expandability.
Cons
- Limited Capacity: 750VA/500W is suited for small setups but may not support larger server configurations.
- SmartConnect Limited: Cloud-based monitoring requires the SMT750IC model or an optional management card.
- Battery Warranty: 2-year battery warranty is shorter than the 3-year UPS warranty.
Use Cases
The SMT750I is ideal for:
- Home Offices: Protects workstations, NAS devices, and VoIP systems from power disruptions.
- Small Businesses: Supports point-of-sale systems, routers, and small servers in retail or office settings.
- Networking Equipment: Ensures uninterrupted power for switches, hubs, and modems.
- Regions with Unstable Power: AVR and surge protection are effective in areas with frequent voltage fluctuations.
- Surveillance Systems: Provides backup power for small DVRs or NVRs to maintain continuous operation.
User Feedback
Users praise the SMT750I for its reliability, compact design, and ease of use. On platforms like Amazon and tech forums, home office users and small business owners appreciate the pure sine wave output and AVR for protecting sensitive equipment. The LCD interface is frequently noted for its clarity and simplicity. Some users mention the higher cost compared to entry-level UPS models, but most agree the performance and features justify the price. A few report challenges with battery replacement costs outside the warranty period.
Tips for Optimal Use
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: Place the UPS in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating, especially under load.
- Monitor Battery Health: Use the LCD’s predictive replacement date and self-test feature to plan battery maintenance (RBC48 cartridge).
- Install PowerChute: Leverage the included software for automated shutdowns and detailed monitoring.
- Verify Connections: Ensure input (IEC C14) and output cables match your setup.
- Register Warranty: Register with APC to secure the 3-year warranty and access support.
Conclusion
The APC Smart-UPS 750VA LCD 230V (SMT750I) is a compact, reliable, and feature-rich UPS that delivers robust power protection for small offices, home offices, and networking equipment. Its line-interactive topology, pure sine wave output, AVR, and energy-efficient Green Mode make it an excellent choice for safeguarding workstations, routers, and other sensitive electronics. While its capacity is limited compared to higher-end models and the cost is higher than basic UPS units, its performance, user-friendly features, and APC’s trusted reputation make it a worthwhile investment for small-scale applications.
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