In environments where power reliability is non-negotiable—think small server rooms, medical offices, or high-end home labs—a high-capacity uninterruptible power supply (UPS) like the APC Smart-UPS 3000VA Line Interactive (SUA3000I) is a cornerstone of stability. This tower-form unit from Schneider Electric’s APC lineup delivers 3000VA/2700W of line-interactive protection, featuring pure sine wave output, automatic voltage regulation (AVR), and USB/serial connectivity for seamless monitoring. Tailored for 230V regions such as India, the UK, and parts of Europe and Africa, it shields sensitive equipment from outages, surges, and fluctuations, ensuring safe shutdowns and minimal downtime even as an older model still in demand via refurbished channels.
Key Features That Elevate the SUA3000I
The SUA3000I’s line-interactive design intelligently manages power by correcting voltage variances through AVR—boosting lows by up to 30% and trimming highs by 12%—without prematurely engaging the battery. When outages strike, it switches in just 2ms, providing clean sine wave power ideal for active power factor corrected (PFC) devices. Hot-swappable batteries allow maintenance without disruption, and integration with PowerChute software via USB or serial ports enables automated alerts, event logging, and graceful shutdowns. Optional SmartSlot cards expand to network management, making it adaptable for IT pros.
Notable perks:
- Pure Sine Wave Delivery: Ensures compatibility with modern servers and medical gear.
- Surge Safeguards: 365 Joules of protection against spikes and EMI/RFI noise.
- Scalability: Pair with external packs for longer runtimes in extended blackouts.
- Efficiency Focus: Optimized for reduced energy loss compared to legacy units.
Though discontinued in late 2022, its robust build keeps it viable through battery replacements and service.
Technical Specifications Breakdown
For a precise look, here’s a table summarizing the SUA3000I’s vital metrics:
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 3000VA / 2700W |
| Topology | Line Interactive |
| Waveform | Pure Sine Wave |
| Input Voltage | 230V Nominal (Range: 160-285V) |
| Output Voltage | 230V |
| Frequency | 47-63 Hz Auto-Sensing |
| Outlets | 8x IEC 320 C13 + 2 Jumpers + 1x IEC 320 C19 |
| Transfer Time | 2ms Typical |
| Battery Type | Sealed Lead-Acid (Hot-Swappable RBC55, 3-5 Year Lifespan) |
| Recharge Time | 3 Hours to 90% |
| Runtime Estimates | ~5.5 min at Full Load (2700W); ~13.6 min at Half Load (1350W) |
| Surge Protection | 365 Joules |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 43.2 cm x 19.7 cm x 54.4 cm |
| Weight | 56 kg |
| Operating Temp | 0-40°C |
| Noise Level | Audible Alarms; Fan Under Load |
This hefty tower commands floor space but offers enterprise-grade density for its era.
Performance Insights and User Experiences
Hands-on evaluations, including YouTube load tests, demonstrate the SUA3000I’s prowess: it sustains full loads through short outages with stable voltage, while AVR handles brownouts in volatile grids without fanfare. PowerChute shines for scripting custom responses, though initial USB driver hunts can frustrate newcomers.
User sentiment remains strong into 2025, with 4.0-5.0/5 ratings on sites like estorewale.com and linknet.co.in, lauding its “bulletproof” reliability in server and POS environments. Reddit homelab threads recommend it for 3000W needs, though some flag the weight as a setup hurdle. Minor gripes include dated software interfaces and fan noise in quiet spaces, but overall, it’s hailed as a “professional-grade workhorse” for critical ops, with rare failures tied to aged batteries.
Ideal Scenarios for the APC SUA3000I
This UPS thrives in:
- IT and Server Rooms: Protecting racks and NAS from urban power dips.
- Professional Offices: Backing VoIP, printers, and workstations.
- Specialized Setups: Medical or retail systems demanding clean power.
For newer rackmounts, consider SMT successors; lighter loads might favor 2200VA siblings. At 3000VA, it excels for scaling mid-sized demands.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High-wattage sine wave for PFC compatibility.
- AVR and hot-swap for proactive management.
- Strong software ecosystem and surge defense.
- Enduring value via refurbishments.
Cons:
- Substantial size and weight.
- Legacy software may need tweaks.
- Limited native runtime without expansions.
- Post-discontinuation support via third-parties.
Wrapping Up: A Legacy Champion in Power Protection
The APC Smart-UPS 3000VA Line Interactive (SUA3000I) endures as a testament to APC’s engineering, delivering unwavering backup for power-sensitive realms despite its vintage status. With consistent acclaim for averting downtime in real-world crises, it’s a savvy choice for those prioritizing proven performance over flash.
Hunting for one? CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES for stock and spares.