In an era where power interruptions can disrupt operations, corrupt critical data, or damage sensitive equipment, a reliable uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is essential for small to medium-sized businesses, server rooms, and IT setups. The APC Smart-UPS C 3000VA LCD 230V (SMC3000I), part of Schneider Electric’s acclaimed APC Smart-UPS lineup, delivers cost-effective, line-interactive power protection optimized for 230V environments across Europe, Asia, Africa, and beyond. With its intuitive design, high efficiency, and robust features, this tower UPS is perfect for safeguarding servers, networking gear, and workstations. In this blog, we’ll explore the SMC3000I’s key features, technical specifications, ideal use cases, and why it’s a smart choice in 2025 for ensuring uptime in an increasingly unstable power landscape.
Key Features: Efficient and User-Friendly Protection
The SMC3000I utilizes line-interactive topology, which corrects voltage fluctuations through Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) without switching to battery power, preserving runtime for actual outages. Its pure sine wave output ensures compatibility with modern, power-factor-corrected equipment, making it a step above budget UPSs. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): Stabilizes input voltages (160-286V) to maintain a consistent 230V output, mitigating brownouts and overvoltages—common in ~70% of power disruptions—without draining the battery.
- Pure Sine Wave Output: Delivers clean power, essential for sensitive devices like servers and networking equipment, reducing hardware stress and extending lifespan compared to modified sine wave alternatives.
- Graphical LCD Interface: A clear, multilingual display provides real-time insights into load, battery status, estimated runtime, and event logs, enabling quick diagnostics without external tools.
- Green Mode: Bypasses unused components during stable power conditions, achieving up to 97% efficiency to lower energy costs while maintaining full protection.
- Intelligent Battery Management: Optimizes charging to extend battery life (3-5 years) and provides predictive failure notifications. Hot-swappable batteries allow replacements without powering down connected loads.
- Remote Management Options: Supports an optional Network Management Card (e.g., AP9640) for remote monitoring via SNMP or web interfaces, integrating with APC’s PowerChute software for automated shutdowns and alerts. USB and serial connectivity are included for local management.
These features make the SMC3000I an accessible yet powerful solution for businesses prioritizing reliability and efficiency.
Technical Specifications: High Performance in a Compact Tower
Rated at 3000VA/2100W, the SMC3000I is designed for moderate to high-density loads in a space-efficient tower form factor. Its lightweight build and simple setup make it ideal for small IT environments or offices.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Power Rating | 3000VA / 2100W |
| Input Voltage | 170-300V AC (adjustable via AVR); 50/60 Hz auto-sensing |
| Output Voltage | 230V AC ±5% (pure sine wave on battery); Configurable: 220/240V |
| Outlets | 8x IEC 320 C13, 1x IEC 320 C19 (all battery-backed and surge-protected) |
| Form Factor | Tower; Dimensions: 17.0 x 7.7 x 21.5 inches (432 x 197 x 546 mm) |
| Weight | 95 lbs (43 kg) |
| Efficiency | Up to 97% in Green Mode; ~95% in normal operation |
| Runtime (Full Load) | ~6 minutes (2100W); ~17 minutes at half load (1050W) |
| Connectivity | USB, RJ-45 serial, SmartSlot (for optional NMC) |
| Battery | Sealed lead-acid (RBC43); 3-6 hour recharge; 48V nominal |
| Surge Energy Rating | 320 Joules |
| Noise Level | <45 dBA at 1m |
The SMC3000I features an IEC-320 C20 input and supports limited runtime extension via external battery packs, though this is less common for its capacity. It’s RoHS-compliant and ENERGY STAR certified, aligning with eco-friendly IT initiatives.
Ideal Applications: Versatile Protection for Growing Needs
The SMC3000I is tailored for environments requiring reliable power for critical but manageable loads:
- Small to Medium Businesses: Protects file servers, NAS devices, or email servers in offices with 10-50 employees, ensuring data integrity during power events.
- Networking Closets: Keeps routers, switches, and VoIP systems operational, preventing costly communication disruptions in retail, hospitality, or branch offices.
- Workstations and POS Systems: Safeguards high-end PCs, graphic design stations, or point-of-sale terminals in environments like clinics, cafes, or small data centers.
- Home Labs and Media Servers: Popular among tech enthusiasts for powering home servers, gaming rigs, or AV setups, delivering clean power and surge protection.
Why Choose the SMC3000I? Cost-Effective Resilience
The SMC3000I strikes a balance between affordability and advanced features, making it ideal for businesses scaling their IT infrastructure without enterprise budgets. Its AVR and pure sine wave output protect against power irregularities, which contribute to ~80% of equipment failures in unstable grids. The Green Mode reduces energy costs, and the intuitive LCD minimizes setup and maintenance complexity. A 2-year warranty with advance replacement, coupled with global availability of RBC43 batteries, ensures low total cost of ownership.
Compared to APC’s double-conversion SRT models, the SMC3000I is less suited for extreme power environments but excels for cost-conscious deployments needing line-interactive protection. In 2025, with grid challenges intensifying in regions like South Asia and Africa, its efficiency and uptime assurance are more critical than ever.
Final Thoughts: Power Protection You Can Trust
The APC Smart-UPS C 3000VA LCD 230V (SMC3000I) delivers enterprise-grade reliability in an accessible package, making it a top choice for businesses and tech enthusiasts safeguarding critical systems. Whether you’re protecting servers or ensuring network continuity, it’s a dependable investment. CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES for pricing and configurations to fortify your setup today.
Facing power challenges in your environment? Share your thoughts in the comments!