In a world increasingly dependent on uninterrupted power for IT infrastructure, home offices, and small businesses, even brief outages can disrupt workflows and cause data loss. The APC Smart-UPS C 2000VA 230V (SMC2000I), crafted by APC by Schneider Electric, stands as a dependable line-interactive UPS solution tailored for mid-range needs. This tower-mountable unit delivers 2000VA/1300W of power protection with automatic voltage regulation (AVR) and a user-friendly LCD interface, making it suitable for servers, networking equipment, and point-of-sale systems. In this informative blog, we’ll delve into its technology, specifications, features, benefits, and practical applications to guide you in determining if it’s the right power safeguard for your setup.
Line-Interactive Technology: Balancing Efficiency and Protection
The SMC2000I employs line-interactive topology, which bridges the gap between basic standby UPS systems and more advanced online double-conversion models. In normal conditions, it passes power directly from the mains to connected devices while actively monitoring and correcting voltage fluctuations via AVR—boosting low voltages or trimming high ones without switching to battery. During outages, it seamlessly transitions to battery power with minimal delay (typically 6-10ms), providing a pure sine wave output to ensure compatibility with sensitive electronics like active PFC power supplies in servers.
This approach offers:
- Voltage stabilization: Corrects brownouts and surges without draining the battery, extending runtime for true blackouts.
- Pure sine wave output: Prevents issues with modern IT equipment that can’t handle modified sine waves.
- Efficiency in stable environments: Operates in “Green Mode” to bypass unnecessary components, achieving up to 97% efficiency and reducing energy costs.
With an input voltage range of 160-300V and frequency tolerance of 47-63Hz, it’s well-suited for regions with variable power quality, such as parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Key Specifications: Built for Performance and Durability
The SMC2000I is engineered for reliability in compact spaces. Here’s a concise table outlining its primary specifications:
| Category | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2000VA / 1300W |
| Topology | Line Interactive |
| Input | IEC 320 C20; Nominal 230V; Range: 160-300V; Frequency: 47-63Hz |
| Output | (6) IEC 320 C13 outlets (Battery Backup + Surge Protection) (1) IEC 320 C19 outlet (Battery Backup) Pure Sine Wave; Crest Factor: 3:1; Efficiency: Up to 97% in Green Mode |
| Runtime | 6 minutes 45 seconds at full load (1300W) Approximately 15-20 minutes at half load (650W) No external battery expansion |
| Battery | Sealed Lead-Acid (APCRBC148 cartridge); User-replaceable; Hot-swappable; Expected life: 3-5 years; Recharge time: 3 hours |
| Form Factor | Tower (Optional 2U rack-mount kit for SMC2000I-2U variant) |
| Connectivity | USB; Serial (RJ-45); Multi-function Graphic LCD; Audible alarms; Automatic self-test |
| Environmental | Operating Temp: 0-40°C; Humidity: 0-95% non-condensing; Noise: <45 dBA (fan cycles as needed); Surge Energy Rating: 340 Joules |
| Dimensions & Weight | Height: 219mm; Width: 432mm; Depth: 490mm; Weight: ~27kg (tower) / ~30kg (rack) |
| Warranty | 1 year (repair/replace) |
| Certifications | CE, EN/IEC 62040-1 & 2, RoHS, Energy Star, VDE |
These details underscore its focus on energy-efficient operation and ease of maintenance, with intelligent battery management to optimize performance.
Standout Features: Smart Design for Everyday Reliability
The SMC2000I combines robust protection with intuitive controls, setting it apart in the entry-to-mid-level UPS category:
- Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): Boost and Trim functions maintain stable output without battery use, maximizing runtime during actual outages.
- Intuitive LCD Interface: A graphic display shows real-time status, including load percentage, runtime estimates, and event logs. Over 15 programmable settings allow customization, such as outlet group control for sequenced shutdowns.
- Intelligent Battery Management: Features predictive failure notifications, automatic self-tests, and precision charging to extend battery life. Cold-start capability enables operation from battery alone.
- Green Mode Operation: Bypasses conversion circuitry in stable power conditions for high efficiency (>97%), reducing heat and utility costs while maintaining full protection.
- Connectivity and Alerts: USB and serial ports support software integration for graceful shutdowns. Distinctive alarms for low battery or overload, plus configurable delays, keep users informed.
Additional safeguards include surge protection, noise filtering, and safety-agency approvals for secure operation in diverse environments. The user-replaceable battery (APCRBC148) simplifies maintenance without downtime.
Benefits: Cost-Effective Peace of Mind
Choosing the SMC2000I brings practical advantages for power-sensitive setups:
- Extended Equipment Life: AVR and pure sine wave output protect against voltage issues, reducing hardware failures and downtime.
- Energy Efficiency: Green Mode and high-efficiency design lower electricity bills; Energy Star certification ensures eco-friendliness.
- Ease of Use and Maintenance: The LCD simplifies monitoring, while hot-swappable batteries and self-tests minimize intervention needs.
- Scalable for Growth: Supports network-grade devices with reliable runtime, and the optional rack kit (for -2U version) fits evolving IT spaces.
- Proven Reliability: Backed by APC’s 25+ million units sold legacy, with a 1-year warranty for confidence.
In performance scenarios, it handles full loads effectively, with users reporting stable operation during brief outages.
Ideal Use Cases: Protecting What’s Critical
The SMC2000I excels in scenarios where space and budget are considerations but reliability is non-negotiable:
- Small to Medium Businesses (SMBs): Powers servers, routers, switches, and POS systems in offices or retail environments.
- Home Offices and Gaming Setups: Safeguards PCs, NAS drives, and consoles from surges and blackouts.
- Networking and Edge Devices: Ideal for hubs, VoIP phones, and light industrial controls in areas with unstable grids.
- Entry-Level Data Closets: Provides basic protection for distributed IT without the complexity of double-conversion units.
For loads up to 1300W, its AVR and runtime make it a versatile choice, though it’s not suited for extended backups without additional batteries.
Conclusion: A Smart Choice for Accessible Power Protection
The APC 2000VA Smart-UPS 230V (SMC2000I) delivers efficient, line-interactive power safeguarding with AVR, pure sine wave output, and smart features that punch above its weight for SMBs and home users. Whether stabilizing voltage in an office or bridging outages for critical gear, it ensures continuity without the premium cost of online topologies. With Schneider Electric’s trusted engineering, it’s a future-proof addition to any setup.
For runtime calculators or accessories, CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES. Invest in the SMC2000I today—keep your systems running smoothly in an unpredictable power world!