In an era where businesses and IT infrastructures depend on continuous power, protecting critical equipment from outages, surges, and voltage fluctuations is non-negotiable. The APC Smart-UPS 3000VA Line Interactive UPS (SUA3000I), manufactured by Schneider Electric, is a high-capacity, reliable uninterruptible power supply (UPS) designed to safeguard servers, networking gear, and other mission-critical devices. Renowned for its robust performance and intelligent management features, the SUA3000I is a go-to solution for small to medium-sized enterprises. In this blog, we’ll explore its features, benefits, and applications, demonstrating why it remains a trusted choice for power protection.
Overview of the APC Smart-UPS 3000VA (SUA3000I)
The APC Smart-UPS 3000VA (SUA3000I) is a line-interactive UPS delivering 3000VA/2700W of power capacity in a tower form factor, with the option to convert to a rackmount configuration using an accessory kit. It provides pure sine wave output, automatic voltage regulation (AVR), and advanced management capabilities via USB and serial interfaces. With its high power rating and dependable battery backup, the SUA3000I is ideal for protecting high-performance IT systems in environments where uptime is critical.
Key Specifications
- Power Capacity: 3000VA / 2700W
- Output Connections: 8x IEC C13 + 1x IEC C19 outlets
- Input Connection: IEC C20
- Nominal Input/Output Voltage: 230V
- Battery Type: Maintenance-free sealed lead-acid battery (RBC55)
- Typical Recharge Time: 3 hours to 90% capacity
- Form Factor: Tower (convertible to rackmount with optional kit)
- Communication Ports: USB, Serial, SmartSlot (for optional network management cards)
- Dimensions: 43.2 x 19.6 x 54.4 cm
- Weight: Approximately 55 kg
- Warranty: 2 years (repair or replace)
Standout Features of the SUA3000I
The APC Smart-UPS 3000VA is packed with features that ensure reliable power protection and simplified management. Here’s what sets it apart:
1. Pure Sine Wave Output
When running on battery, the SUA3000I delivers a pure sine wave output, critical for sensitive electronics like servers and networking equipment with power-factor-corrected (PFC) power supplies. This ensures compatibility and prevents damage or data loss during power transitions.
2. Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR)
The line-interactive topology includes AVR, which stabilizes input voltage during surges, sags, or brownouts without switching to battery power. This extends battery life and ensures consistent power delivery, making it ideal for regions with unstable utility power.
3. Intelligent Battery Management
APC’s proprietary battery management system optimizes battery performance through precision charging and real-time monitoring. The SUA3000I conducts automatic self-tests to identify battery issues early, and its hot-swappable RBC55 battery allows replacement without powering down connected devices.
4. Advanced Communication Capabilities
The UPS features USB and serial ports for integration with APC’s PowerChute Business Edition software, enabling automated shutdowns, event logging, and remote monitoring. The SmartSlot supports optional network management cards (e.g., AP9630), allowing advanced remote management over a network for larger deployments.
5. LED Status Indicators
The front panel includes LED indicators for key statuses, such as online operation, battery mode, overload conditions, and battery replacement needs. These provide quick visual feedback, simplifying monitoring for IT administrators.
6. Cold-Start Capability
The SUA3000I can be powered on using its battery in the absence of utility power, providing temporary power to critical equipment during outages until alternative power sources are available. This is particularly valuable in emergency scenarios.
7. High Power Capacity and Runtime
With a 3000VA/2700W capacity, the SUA3000I supports demanding loads, offering approximately 5–8 minutes of runtime at full load and up to 20–30 minutes at half load. While it does not support external battery packs, its internal battery is sufficient for most applications to perform safe shutdowns or bridge short outages.
8. Audible Alarms
Configurable audible alarms notify users of power events, such as battery operation or low battery conditions. These can be customized or muted to suit the environment, ensuring timely alerts without causing disruptions.
Benefits for Businesses
The APC Smart-UPS 3000VA (SUA3000I) offers significant advantages for organizations requiring robust power protection:
- Superior Reliability: Pure sine wave output and AVR ensure uninterrupted operation of critical equipment during power disturbances.
- High Capacity: The 3000VA rating supports power-hungry devices, making it suitable for larger server setups or network infrastructure.
- Cost Efficiency: By stabilizing voltage and maximizing battery life, the UPS reduces maintenance costs and energy waste.
- Flexible Deployment: Its tower design, with optional rackmount conversion, fits diverse environments, from server rooms to data closets.
- Simplified Management: USB/serial connectivity and PowerChute software streamline monitoring and configuration, reducing IT overhead.
Applications
The SUA3000I is well-suited for a variety of use cases, including:
- Server Rooms: Protects high-performance servers, storage systems, and virtualization platforms from power interruptions.
- Networking Infrastructure: Ensures continuous operation of routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless access points.
- Workstations: Supports graphic-intensive PCs or engineering workstations in design and development environments.
- Telecom Systems: Powers VoIP systems and communication equipment for uninterrupted connectivity.
- Retail Environments: Maintains uptime for point-of-sale systems, preventing transaction losses during outages.
User Feedback and Considerations
The SUA3000I is widely praised for its reliability and ability to handle high loads. Users highlight its seamless integration with PowerChute software and its robust performance during power outages, with one reviewer stating, “It kept our entire server rack running smoothly through a 10-minute blackout.” The pure sine wave output and cold-start capability are frequently noted as key strengths.
However, there are a few considerations:
- Weight and Size: At ~55 kg, the unit is heavy and requires careful handling during installation, particularly if converting to rackmount.
- Fan Noise: The cooling fan can be noticeable in quiet environments, which may be an issue for small offices.
- No LCD Interface: Unlike newer Smart-UPS models (e.g., SMT series), the SUA3000I uses LED indicators instead of an LCD display, which may feel less intuitive for detailed status monitoring.
- Battery Replacement Costs: The RBC55 battery pack is relatively expensive, though its hot-swappable design minimizes downtime during replacement.
To ensure optimal performance, verify that your facility has a compatible 230V power source with an IEC C20 input connection. For larger or remote deployments, consider adding a network management card for enhanced monitoring capabilities.
Conclusion
The APC Smart-UPS 3000VA Line Interactive UPS (SUA3000I) is a powerful, reliable, and feature-rich solution for protecting critical IT and networking equipment. Its pure sine wave output, AVR, intelligent battery management, and robust communication options make it an excellent choice for businesses seeking to minimize downtime and safeguard valuable assets. While its weight and lack of an LCD display may be minor drawbacks, its high capacity, proven performance, and flexible deployment options make it a top-tier UPS for small to medium-sized enterprises.
Whether you’re powering servers, networking gear, or telecom systems, the SUA3000I delivers peace of mind in an unpredictable power environment. For more details or to purchase, CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES.