Tag: APC AP9640

In an age where downtime can cost thousands per minute, having eyes on your uninterruptible power supply (UPS) from anywhere is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. The APC UPS Network Management Card 3 (AP9640), from Schneider Electric’s renowned APC brand, fits seamlessly into compatible Smart-UPS models via the SmartSlot interface. This compact card transforms your UPS into a network-connected powerhouse, enabling secure remote monitoring, control, and automated shutdowns through PowerChute Network Shutdown software. As of October 2025, the AP9640 remains a cornerstone for IT infrastructure, offering Gigabit Ethernet speeds and enhanced security to safeguard data centers, servers, and critical applications. In this blog, we’ll unpack its capabilities, specs, real-world performance, and why it’s a smart upgrade for proactive power management.

Why the AP9640 is Essential for Modern IT

Power outages don’t announce themselves, but they can wreak havoc on unprotected systems. The AP9640 bridges this gap by providing mission-critical visibility into UPS status, environmental conditions, and power events— all from a web browser, command line, or SNMP tools. It integrates with EcoStruxure IT for centralized oversight and supports protocols like BACnet/IP and Modbus TCP for building management systems. With a 1-year Secure NMC Subscription included for firmware updates, it ensures your setup stays current against evolving threats. Ideal for hybrid workforces, this card minimizes on-site visits, reduces risks, and supports graceful shutdowns in physical, virtual, and hyper-converged environments.

Key Features That Drive Uptime

The AP9640 packs enterprise-grade smarts into a plug-and-play form factor:

• Remote Monitoring and Control: Real-time access to UPS metrics like battery health, load levels, and runtime estimates via intuitive web interfaces or CLI.
• PowerChute Network Shutdown: Automates safe server shutdowns during extended outages, protecting data across Windows, Linux, VMware, and Nutanix setups.
• Advanced Security: 2048-bit SSL/TLS encryption, multi-factor authentication, role-based access, and compliance with Radius and LDAP for fortified defenses.
• High-Speed Networking: Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000BASE-T) with IPv6 support for seamless integration into modern, high-bandwidth networks.
• Expanded Logging: 100x more data and event storage than predecessors, with multi-language support for global teams.
• Integration Versatility: Works with SNMP traps, email/SMS alerts, and third-party platforms for comprehensive event management.
• Energy Efficiency: Green Premium certified, promoting sustainable operations with optimized power use.

These features make it a step up from older cards like the AP9630, delivering faster performance and broader compatibility.

Specifications at a Glance

Here’s a curated table of the AP9640’s core technical details, based on official documentation:

Category	Details
Physical Dimensions	Height: 3.8 cm; Width: 12.1 cm; Depth: 11.4 cm; Weight: 0.08 kg
Network Interface	RJ-45 10/100/1000 Base-T (Gigabit Ethernet); IPv6 compatible
Authentication & Security	Radius, LDAP, 2048-bit encryption, role-based access
Operating Environment	Temperature: 0–45°C; Humidity: 0–95% (non-condensing); Altitude: 0–3,048 m
Storage Environment	Temperature: -5–45°C; Humidity: 0–95%; Altitude: 0–15,240 m
Certifications	FCC Part 15 Class A, EN 55022 Class A, ICES-003, VCCI Class A, RoHS compliant
Included Accessories	User manual, USB cable
Software Support	PowerChute Network Shutdown; EcoStruxure IT integration
Warranty	1 year repair or replace
Mounting	SmartSlot insertion (not rack-mountable standalone)

It’s designed for reliability, with a focus on energy-efficient components and recyclable packaging.

Installation and Performance: Plug-and-Play Power

Setup is straightforward: Slide the card into your UPS’s SmartSlot, connect the RJ-45 cable, and access the default IP (typically 192.168.1.254) via a web browser for configuration. PowerChute software installs on servers for automated responses, with wizards guiding static IP setup and threshold tuning. Performance-wise, users report lightning-fast response times for alerts and reboots, even in multi-user scenarios. In 2025 tests, it handled simulated outages flawlessly, logging events with granular detail. The high-speed processor ensures smooth operation under load, though initial firmware flashing might take 10-15 minutes. Note: It’s compatible with a wide range of APC models, including SMT, SRT, and SURT series, but verify your UPS’s SmartSlot version.

Pros, Cons, and User Insights

Aggregated from 2025 sources, the AP9640 scores high on reliability:

Pros:

• Effortless remote access and shutdown automation.
• Top-tier security for compliance-heavy environments.
• Versatile integrations reduce tool sprawl.
• Compact and energy-efficient design.

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve for advanced configs.
• No built-in Wi-Fi—Ethernet only.

User feedback glows: Amazon reviewers call it “plug-and-play perfection” for home labs, while Reddit IT pros praise its VMware integration, noting, “Saved our data center during a blackout—alerts hit my phone in seconds.” A B&H user in 2025 described it as “slow but capable,” highlighting scheduled end-of-support for older siblings but affirming the AP9640’s longevity. Walmart comments echo ease of use with the SMT1500C. Minor gripes center on IP setup hurdles for beginners, but overall ratings hover at 4.8/5.

Who Should Buy the AP9640?

This card is a game-changer for:

• Data Center Admins: Needing centralized UPS oversight in multi-site ops.
• SMB IT Teams: Protecting servers and VMs without constant physical checks.
• Industrial Facilities: Integrating with BMS via BACnet/Modbus.
• Remote workers or MSPs managing distributed UPS fleets.

If your setup is basic (local-only), stick with USB-based PowerChute. For rack PDUs, pair it with APC’s broader EcoStruxure ecosystem.

Final Thoughts: Secure Your Power, Secure Your Future

The APC UPS Network Management Card 3 with PowerChute Network Shutdown (AP9640) isn’t just an accessory—it’s your UPS’s digital nervous system, delivering proactive protection in a connected world. With robust security, seamless integrations, and proven performance as of 2025, investment for anyone serious about uptime. Schneider Electric continues to support it actively, ensuring it’s future-proof against threats. Elevate your power strategy today—grab one from US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES.

Experienced a power save with the AP9640? Spill the details in the comments!

The APC UPS Network Management Card 3 with PowerChute Network Shutdown (AP9640) is a powerful accessory designed to enhance the remote monitoring and management capabilities of APC Smart-UPS systems. By integrating seamlessly with PowerChute Network Shutdown software, the AP9640 provides mission-critical visibility and control, ensuring business continuity and protecting vital IT infrastructure. This blog explores the key features, specifications, benefits, and real-world applications of the AP9640, highlighting why it’s an indispensable tool for modern IT environments.

Key Features of the APC UPS Network Management Card 3 (AP9640)

1. Remote Monitoring and Control

The AP9640 enables secure remote monitoring and management of APC UPS systems via a web browser, command-line interface (CLI), or Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP). Administrators can monitor real-time UPS status, battery health, and load levels from anywhere on a network, reducing the need for on-site checks and saving time.

2. PowerChute Network Shutdown Integration

The included PowerChute Network Shutdown software automates safe and orderly shutdowns of servers, virtual machines, and hyper-converged infrastructure during extended power outages. Certified for VMware Ready, Nutanix Ready, and Nutanix-AHV Ready environments, it supports advanced integration with virtualized platforms like VMware ESX/ESXi and Microsoft Hyper-V, ensuring graceful shutdowns and disaster avoidance.

3. High-Speed Processor and Gigabit Ethernet

Equipped with a high-speed processor and Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, the AP9640 delivers a fast and reliable user experience. It supports simultaneous multiple user logins to its intuitive web interface or CLI, enabling efficient management even in complex IT setups.

4. Advanced Security Features

The AP9640 supports robust security protocols, including HTTPS/SSL, SSH (up to 2048-bit encryption), and SNMPv3, to protect against unauthorized access. These features ensure secure communication and compliance with cybersecurity standards, safeguarding sensitive IT infrastructure.

5. Event Notification and Data Logging

The card provides configurable event notifications via email, SNMP traps, or Syslog, ensuring administrators are promptly informed of power-related incidents. Detailed data and event logging allow for proactive troubleshooting and analysis of trends to prevent potential issues from escalating.

6. Flash Upgradeable Firmware

The AP9640 supports remote firmware updates, ensuring the UPS remains up-to-date with the latest features and security patches. This feature enhances system reliability and reduces vulnerability to cyber threats.

7. EcoStruxure IT Integration

The AP9640 integrates with Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure IT platform, providing efficient management of UPS and other IT equipment. This enables centralized monitoring and data-driven insights for optimized performance and uptime.

Technical Specifications

Here are the key technical details of the APC UPS Network Management Card 3 (AP9640):

• Compatibility: APC Smart-UPS with SmartSlot (e.g., SMT, SMX, SURT, SRT series)
• Interfaces: Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45), SmartSlot
• Protocols: HTTPS/SSL, SSH, SNMPv3, IPv6, SNMPv1, Telnet, SMTP, TCP/IP
• Security: Up to 2048-bit encryption
• Weight: 2.8 ounces (80 grams)
• Dimensions: 4.8 x 4.5 x 1.5 inches (121 x 114 x 38 mm)
• Operating Environment: 0–45°C (32–113°F), 0–95% relative humidity (non-condensing)
• Software: PowerChute Network Shutdown (version 4.5 and above), Secure NMC System (SNS) Tool
• Environmental Impact: 110 kg CO2 equivalent (total lifecycle carbon footprint)
• Packaging: Minimum 70% recycled cardboard (50% in the US)
• Warranty: 1-year repair or replace
• Part Number: AP9640

Benefits of the APC UPS Network Management Card 3 (AP9640)

1. Mission-Critical Visibility

The AP9640 provides real-time insights into UPS performance, enabling proactive management of power conditions. This ensures critical systems remain operational and minimizes downtime during power disruptions.

2. Enhanced Business Continuity

PowerChute Network Shutdown software automates safe shutdowns of physical and virtual systems, protecting data integrity and preventing hardware damage during extended outages. Its compatibility with virtualized environments ensures seamless integration in modern IT setups.

3. Secure and Efficient Management

With advanced security protocols and Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, the AP9640 offers secure and fast remote access, allowing multiple users to manage UPS systems simultaneously without compromising performance.

4. Scalable and Future-Proof

The flash-upgradeable firmware and compatibility with EcoStruxure IT make the AP9640 adaptable to evolving IT needs, ensuring long-term reliability and reduced exposure to security risks.

5. Eco-Friendly Design

The AP9640 uses sustainable packaging with at least 70% recycled cardboard (50% in the US) and is eligible for APC’s take-back program in select regions, aligning with environmentally conscious practices. Its integration with energy-efficient UPS systems further supports green IT initiatives.

Real-World Applications

The APC UPS Network Management Card 3 (AP9640) is ideal for:

• Data Centers: Enables remote monitoring and automated shutdowns for servers and networking equipment, ensuring uptime and data integrity.
• Enterprise IT: Provides centralized management of UPS systems across distributed IT environments, supporting business-critical operations.
• Small to Medium Businesses: Enhances power protection for servers, workstations, and networking gear, minimizing downtime and operational costs.
• Virtualized Environments: Supports safe shutdowns of VMware, Nutanix, and Microsoft Hyper-V systems, protecting virtual machines during power events.

Installation and Compatibility Considerations

The AP9640 is compatible with APC Smart-UPS models equipped with a SmartSlot, including SMT, SMX, SURT, and SRT series. Installation is straightforward, requiring insertion into the UPS SmartSlot and network configuration via a web browser or CLI. The included PowerChute Network Shutdown software (version 4.5 and above) supports multiple operating systems and virtualized platforms. Users should ensure firmware updates are applied regularly to maintain security and functionality.

Environmental and Lifecycle Considerations

The AP9640 has a total lifecycle carbon footprint of 110 kg CO2 equivalent. Its packaging uses at least 70% recycled cardboard (50% in the US), and it is eligible for APC’s take-back program in select regions, subject to availability. The card comes with a 1-year warranty.

Conclusion

The APC UPS Network Management Card 3 with PowerChute Network Shutdown (AP9640) is a robust and versatile solution for managing APC Smart-UPS systems in modern IT environments. Its remote monitoring, advanced security, seamless integration with virtualized platforms, and eco-friendly design make it an invaluable asset for data centers, enterprises, and small businesses alike. By providing real-time visibility, automated shutdowns, and secure management, the AP9640 ensures business continuity and protects critical infrastructure from power disruptions.

For more information, CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES.