APC Smart-UPS C 2000VA 230V (SMC2000I): A Comprehensive Review

The APC Smart-UPS C 2000VA 230V (SMC2000I), manufactured by Schneider Electric, is a reliable, line-interactive uninterruptible power supply (UPS) designed for small to medium-sized businesses, home offices, and IT environments. Offering robust power protection and user-friendly features, it’s ideal for safeguarding servers, networking equipment, and sensitive electronics. In this blog, we’ll explore its specifications, features, performance, and ideal use cases to help you decide if it’s the right UPS for your power needs.

Overview

The APC Smart-UPS C 2000VA is part of the Smart-UPS C series, delivering 1.3kW/2kVA of line-interactive power protection. Its tower-only design, high efficiency, and intuitive management make it suitable for small server rooms, network closets, and critical applications in retail, education, or home office setups. With automatic voltage regulation (AVR) and a user-friendly LCD interface, it provides dependable power backup at an affordable price point for budget-conscious users.

Key Specifications

  • Power Capacity: 1.3kW / 2kVA
  • Input Voltage: 230V (configurable for 220V or 240V)
  • Output Voltage: 230V
  • Output Voltage Distortion: Less than 5% at full load
  • Output Frequency: 50 Hz ±3 Hz (sync to mains)
  • Topology: Line-Interactive
  • Waveform Type: Sine Wave
  • Output Connections: 6x IEC 320 C13, 1x IEC 320 C19
  • Input Connection: IEC 320 C20
  • Battery Type: Maintenance-free sealed Lead-Acid battery with suspended electrolyte
  • Runtime: ~5.1 minutes at full load (1.3kW); ~15.7 minutes at half load (0.65kW)
  • Recharge Time: ~3 hours
  • Dimensions: 17.3 x 7.7 x 21.5 inches (440 x 196 x 544 mm)
  • Weight: 110.2 lbs (50 kg)
  • Efficiency: Up to 97% in normal operation
  • Interface Ports: USB, Serial (RJ-45)
  • Noise Level: 45 dB
  • Certifications: C-Tick, CE, EAC, GS Mark, IRAM, SABS, VDE
  • Warranty: 2-year warranty
  • Additional Features: Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR), LCD interface, Green Mode

Design and Build

The APC Smart-UPS C 2000VA features a tower-only design, making it suitable for floor or shelf placement in small server rooms or offices. Measuring 17.3 x 7.7 x 21.5 inches and weighing 110.2 lbs, it’s compact yet sturdy, with a durable plastic and metal chassis designed for reliability. The front-panel LCD interface provides clear, real-time information on load, battery status, and input/output voltage, making it easy to monitor and configure without additional software. Operating at 45 dB, it’s quiet enough for office environments, minimizing disruptions.

The unit does not include a pre-installed network management card, but the SmartSlot allows for optional accessories like the AP9631 card for remote monitoring. Its straightforward design prioritizes ease of use and affordability, with no rack-mount option, unlike other Smart-UPS models.

Performance

The SMC2000I employs line-interactive topology, which regulates voltage fluctuations using AVR without switching to battery power, preserving battery life for outages. It delivers a pure sine wave output, ensuring compatibility with sensitive equipment like servers and networking gear. With up to 97% efficiency in normal operation and a Green Mode that bypasses unused components during stable power conditions, it reduces energy costs while maintaining protection.

The UPS provides approximately 5.1 minutes of runtime at full load (1.3kW) and 15.7 minutes at half load (0.65kW), with a 3-hour recharge time. While it does not support external battery packs for scalable runtime, the internal battery is sufficient for short outages or graceful shutdowns. AVR corrects voltage fluctuations (170–300V input range), making it ideal for regions with unstable power.

Features

Power Protection and Efficiency

  • Line-Interactive Topology: Uses AVR to correct voltage fluctuations, extending battery life.
  • Green Mode: Achieves up to 97% efficiency by bypassing unused components during stable power conditions.
  • Pure Sine Wave Output: Ensures compatibility with sensitive electronics and active PFC power supplies.
  • Automatic Restart: Restarts connected equipment after power restoration.

Management and Monitoring

  • LCD Interface: Displays real-time data on load, battery, and system status.
  • PowerChute Business Edition: Provides software for graceful shutdown and power management (USB/Serial connection).
  • SmartSlot: Supports optional network management cards (e.g., AP9631) for remote monitoring.
  • Audible Alarms: Alerts for power events or low battery, customizable to reduce noise.

Serviceability

  • Hot-Swappable Batteries: Allows battery replacement without powering down equipment.
  • Battery Failure Notification: Provides early-warning fault analysis for proactive maintenance.
  • Predictive Failure Notification: Alerts users to potential battery issues before they occur.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Reliable Power Protection: Line-interactive topology with AVR ensures stable power.
  • High Efficiency: Up to 97% efficiency reduces energy costs.
  • Pure Sine Wave: Compatible with sensitive electronics and modern power supplies.
  • User-Friendly: Intuitive LCD interface simplifies monitoring and setup.
  • Quiet Operation: 45 dB noise level suits office environments.

Cons

  • No Rack-Mount Option: Tower-only design limits deployment flexibility.
  • No Scalable Runtime: Does not support external battery packs.
  • No Network Card Included: Remote monitoring requires additional purchase.
  • Short Runtime: 5.1 minutes at full load may require planning for longer outages.

Applications

The APC Smart-UPS C 2000VA is ideal for:

  • Small Server Rooms: Protects entry-level servers and storage systems.
  • Network Closets: Ensures uptime for routers, switches, and networking gear.
  • Home Offices: Safeguards workstations, NAS devices, and high-end PCs.
  • Retail: Supports point-of-sale systems and inventory management.
  • Education: Powers computer labs or administrative systems.
  • Small Businesses: Provides cost-effective power protection for critical equipment.

Its compact size and reliable performance make it suitable for environments with limited space and moderate power demands.

Conclusion

The APC Smart-UPS C 2000VA 230V (SMC2000I) is a dependable, cost-effective UPS designed for small to medium-sized businesses and home offices. Its line-interactive topology, high efficiency, and pure sine wave output ensure reliable power protection for servers, networking equipment, and sensitive electronics. With an intuitive LCD interface, hot-swappable batteries, and quiet operation, it’s a user-friendly solution for environments with moderate power needs. For those seeking an affordable, high-quality UPS without the complexity of enterprise-grade models, the SMC2000I delivers exceptional value and peace of mind.

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