In mission-critical environments like data centers, industrial facilities, and enterprise IT setups, reliable power protection is non-negotiable. The APC Smart-UPS On-Line 20kVA/20kW Rack/Tower 230V/380V (SRTG20KXLI) by Schneider Electric is a high-capacity, double-conversion UPS designed to deliver robust, uninterrupted power to servers, networking equipment, and other sensitive systems. With its scalable runtime, advanced management features, and flexible installation options, this UPS is a powerhouse for businesses requiring zero downtime. In this blog, we’ll explore the specifications, features, benefits, and real-world applications of the SRTG20KXLI, helping you determine if it’s the right solution for your power protection needs.
Overview of the APC Smart-UPS On-Line SRTG20KXLI
The SRTG20KXLI is part of APC’s Smart-UPS On-Line family, renowned for providing high-density, double-conversion power protection for demanding applications. With a 20kVA/20kW capacity, it supports power-hungry blade servers, heavily loaded equipment racks, and industrial systems. Its rack/tower convertible design and compatibility with both single-phase (230V) and three-phase (380–415V) power make it versatile for diverse environments. Equipped with a pre-installed network management card and advanced features like PowerChute software, the SRTG20KXLI ensures seamless operation and monitoring, making it ideal for IT professionals and network administrators.
Key Specifications
- Model: SRTG20KXLI
- Output Power Capacity: 20kW / 20kVA
- Topology: Double Conversion On-Line
- Waveform Type: Pure Sine Wave
- Output Connections:
- Hard wire 5-wire (3PH + N + E)
- Hard wire 3-wire (1PH + N + E)
- 1x IEC 320 C19
- Nominal Output Voltage: 220V / 230V (default) / 240V (1-phase); 380V / 400V / 415V (3-phase)
- Output Frequency: 50/60 Hz ± 4 Hz (auto-sense), ± 0.1 Hz (battery mode)
- Input Connections: Hard wire 5-wire (3PH + N + E), 3-wire (1PH + N + E)
- Input Voltage Range: 230V (1-phase), 380–415V (3-phase)
- Transfer Time: 0 ms (double-conversion)
- Battery Type: Maintenance-free sealed lead-acid (APCRBC172)
- Typical Recharge Time: 4 hours
- Expected Battery Life: 3–5 years
- Surge Protection: Not explicitly specified, but includes multi-stage noise filtering
- Efficiency: >93.5% (online), >98% (Green Mode)
- Communication Ports: USB, RJ45 (serial), SmartSlot (pre-installed AP9641 Network Management Card)
- Dimensions: 30.6 x 44.0 x 83.5 cm (H x W x D, 7U rack height)
- Weight: 126.5 kg (278.9 lbs)
- Operating Environment: 0–40°C, 0–95% non-condensing humidity
- Certifications: CE, Green Premium
- Warranty: 2 years (electronics)
- Provided Equipment: USB cable, rack-mounting brackets, stabilization/wall-mounting feet, installation manual
Design and Build Quality
The SRTG20KXLI is a 7U rack/tower convertible UPS, offering flexibility for data centers, server rooms, or industrial settings. Its robust black (RAL 9005) enclosure is built for durability, with a compact footprint (44 cm wide, 83.5 cm deep) that fits standard racks or standalone setups. Weighing 126.5 kg, it’s substantial due to its high-capacity battery and components, requiring careful placement and handling. The multi-color LCD display provides intuitive access to system parameters like load, battery status, and runtime, with local configuration options.
The unit includes hardwire inputs/outputs (3-wire and 5-wire) for flexible electrical configurations, plus a single IEC C19 outlet for specific devices. The pre-installed AP9641 Network Management Card enables remote monitoring, and the included rack-mounting brackets and stabilization feet simplify installation. Note that the rail kit (SRTGRK1) is sold separately, which may add to setup costs.
How It Works
The SRTG20KXLI employs double-conversion topology, continuously converting incoming AC to DC and back to AC, delivering a pure sine wave output with zero transfer time. This ensures uninterrupted power for sensitive equipment during outages or fluctuations. Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) is unnecessary due to the double-conversion design, which inherently stabilizes voltage. The UPS supports scalable runtime with up to four external battery packs (SRTG192XLBP2), ideal for applications requiring hours of backup.
The Green Mode achieves >98% efficiency by bypassing unused components during stable power conditions, reducing energy costs and heat output. The Network Management Card enables integration with EcoStruxure IT or third-party platforms, offering real-time monitoring, event logging, and remote shutdown capabilities via PowerChute Network Shutdown software.
Key Features and Benefits
1. High Power Capacity and Unity Power Factor
With a 20kW/20kVA rating and unity power factor (VA=W), the SRTG20KXLI delivers maximum usable power, supporting high-density loads like blade servers and industrial equipment.
2. Pure Sine Wave Output
The double-conversion design ensures a clean, pure sine wave, critical for compatibility with active PFC power supplies in modern servers and networking gear.
3. Flexible Input/Output Options
Supports 1PH:1PH, 3PH:1PH, and 3PH:3PH configurations, accommodating diverse power environments (230V single-phase or 380–415V three-phase). This flexibility suits global deployments.
4. Scalable Runtime
Add up to four SRTG192XLBP2 battery packs for extended runtime, meeting stringent requirements for hours-long backup in critical systems.
5. High Efficiency
Achieves >93.5% efficiency in online mode and >98% in Green Mode, minimizing energy costs and heat (important for data centers).
6. Advanced Management
The pre-installed AP9641 Network Management Card supports remote monitoring, environmental integration, and graceful shutdown of servers, virtual machines, and HCI clusters. The multi-color LCD provides local diagnostics, though some users find it complex without the manual.
7. Robust Connectivity
Includes USB, RJ45 (serial), and SmartSlot interfaces, with Emergency Power Off (EPO) for remote shutoff in emergencies.
8. Environmental Responsibility
The Green Premium label ensures compliance with environmental regulations, with packaging containing at least 70% recycled cardboard (50% in the US). The UPS is part of Schneider Electric’s take-back program for recycling.
Performance and Runtime
The SRTG20KXLI delivers 3 minutes 1 second of runtime at full load (20kW), with extended runtime possible via external battery packs. Real-world tests show >94% efficiency and zero transfer time, ensuring seamless operation during power events. The pure sine wave output and <2% harmonic distortion make it ideal for sensitive equipment. Users report quiet operation, though the unit’s 2160W battery charging power and 4-hour recharge time ensure quick recovery after outages.
The UPS handles input voltages from 220–240V (1-phase) or 380–415V (3-phase), with auto-sensing frequency (50/60 Hz). Its robust design supports loads from 2kW to 20kW, making it versatile for varying demands.
Real-World Applications
The SRTG20KXLI is tailored for high-stakes environments:
- Data Centers: Powers blade servers and storage systems, with scalable runtime for extended outages. Users report reliable performance in 24/7 operations.
- Industrial Applications: Supports light industrial equipment, ensuring uptime in manufacturing or lab settings.
- Enterprise IT: Protects network switches, routers, and VoIP systems, with remote management simplifying large-scale deployments.
- Medical Labs: Safeguards sensitive diagnostic equipment requiring clean power and zero transfer time.
- Telecom: Powers communication infrastructure with PoE compatibility and robust surge protection.
A user in a small data center noted the SRTG20KXLI’s ability to handle multiple servers during a 10-minute outage, with the LCD and network card providing real-time insights.
Installation Considerations
Installing the SRTG20KXLI requires planning due to its size and weight:
- Space and Weight: The 7U, 126.5 kg unit requires a sturdy rack or stable surface. Ensure proper ventilation to manage heat (consult APC’s runtime graph for BTU output).
- Electrical Setup: Hardwire connections (3-wire or 5-wire) demand a qualified electrician for 1-phase or 3-phase configurations. Verify input voltage compatibility (230V or 380–415V).
- Battery Integration: Ships with batteries disconnected; follow the manual to connect APCRBC172 batteries. Up to four external packs can be added.
- Network Setup: Configure the AP9641 card via DHCP or static IP for remote monitoring. PowerChute software requires a compatible OS (Windows, Linux, or macOS).
- Grounding: Proper grounding is critical for surge protection. The EPO feature requires integration with facility safety systems.
- Rail Kit: Purchase the SRTGRK1 rail kit separately for rack mounting, as it’s not included.
Users recommend reviewing the installation manual and APC’s online resources for setup, as the LCD interface can be complex initially.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High Capacity: 20kW/20kVA with unity power factor supports demanding loads.
- Pure Sine Wave: Zero transfer time and clean power for sensitive equipment.
- Flexible Design: Rack/tower convertible with 1-phase and 3-phase support.
- Scalable Runtime: External battery packs extend backup for hours.
- High Efficiency: >98% in Green Mode reduces operating costs.
- Advanced Management: Pre-installed network card and PowerChute software enhance control.
- Robust Warranty: 2 years
Cons
- Weight and Size: 126.5 kg and 7U height require substantial space and support.
- Rail Kit Not Included: Additional cost for SRTGRK1 kit.
- Complex Setup: Hardwiring and network configuration may require professional assistance.
- Limited Reviews: As a specialized product, user feedback is sparse, with no reviews on some platforms.
Conclusion
The APC Smart-UPS On-Line 20kVA/20kW Rack/Tower 230V/380V (SRTG20KXLI) is a premium UPS designed for mission-critical applications, offering unmatched reliability, scalability, and efficiency. Its double-conversion topology, pure sine wave output, and advanced management features make it ideal for data centers, industrial systems, and enterprise IT. While its high cost, weight, and setup complexity may deter smaller operations, its robust performance and long-term value make it a worthy investment for environments where downtime is not an option.
For businesses seeking bulletproof power protection, the SRTG20KXLI delivers peace of mind. CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES.