When power outages, surges, or voltage fluctuations threaten critical IT infrastructure, a robust uninterruptible power supply (UPS) becomes the backbone of operational continuity. The APC Smart-UPS 3000VA (SUA3000I) from Schneider Electric’s renowned APC brand is a line-interactive powerhouse delivering 3000VA/2700W of reliable protection for servers, networking gear, and high-end workstations. Optimized for 230V regions like Asia, Africa, and Europe, this tower UPS combines pure sine wave output with intelligent management features. Though discontinued in some markets by 2025, it remains a go-to choice on secondary markets for its durability and performance. Let’s explore its specs, features, ideal applications, and user feedback to understand why it’s a trusted solution for demanding setups.
Core Specifications: Built for Serious Loads
The SUA3000I is designed to support substantial equipment with clean power and robust surge protection, making it ideal for mid-to-large IT environments. Here’s a detailed spec overview:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Power Capacity | 3000VA / 2700W |
| Topology | Line Interactive with Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) |
| Output Waveform | Pure Sine Wave (on battery) |
| Input Voltage | 230V, 50/60 Hz ±3 Hz; IEC-320 C20 connector |
| Output Outlets | (8) IEC 320 C13 + (1) IEC 320 C19 (all battery-backed) |
| Surge Protection | Up to 480 Joules |
| Recharge Time | ~3 hours to 90% capacity |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 432 x 196 x 544 mm (tower form factor) |
| Weight | ~55 kg |
| Communication | USB, Serial (DB-9 RS-232); SmartSlot for optional network card |
These specs position the SUA3000I as a heavy-duty UPS for critical applications, with pure sine wave output ensuring compatibility with sensitive equipment like servers and medical devices. Its substantial weight reflects a robust internal battery and transformer for high-capacity performance.
Key Features: Intelligent and Resilient
The “Smart” in Smart-UPS signifies APC’s focus on advanced power management, and the SUA3000I delivers with features that balance reliability and control:
- Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): Stabilizes input voltage (160-286V range) by boosting low or trimming high voltages, preserving battery life during brownouts—crucial for regions with unstable grids like Nigeria or India.
- Pure Sine Wave Output: Provides clean, utility-like power on battery, preventing shutdowns or damage to active PFC power supplies in servers, NAS, or high-end workstations.
- Intelligent Battery Management: Extends battery lifespan with temperature-compensated charging and periodic self-tests. Hot-swappable RBC55 batteries enable maintenance without powering down.
- Advanced Connectivity: USB and serial ports integrate with PowerChute Business Edition software for automated shutdowns, event logging, and energy usage reports. The SmartSlot supports optional network cards (e.g., AP9630) for SNMP or remote monitoring.
- LED Status Indicators: Clear LEDs display online, battery, overload, and fault status, with audible alarms for critical events. While lacking the LCD of newer SMT models, it’s intuitive and functional.
- High Efficiency: Operates at up to 95% efficiency, reducing energy costs and heat output in server rooms or data closets.
Ideal Use Cases: Powering Critical Infrastructure
The SUA3000I is tailored for environments where downtime is not an option:
- Mid-Sized Server Rooms: Supports multiple servers, storage arrays, or virtualization hosts, providing enough runtime for safe shutdowns or generator kick-in during outages.
- Networking Environments: Powers routers, switches, and VoIP systems in branch offices or retail, ensuring connectivity in power-unstable regions like South Africa.
- Professional Workstations: Protects high-end PCs, CAD systems, or medical equipment requiring clean power, especially in 230V markets.
It’s overkill for basic home setups (APC’s Easy UPS line is better) and not rack-optimized (see SMT3000RM12U for rackmount needs), but its tower design excels in standalone IT deployments.
User Insights: Performance, Pros, and Cons
Aggregating feedback from Amazon, Reddit’s r/homelab, and tech forums, the SUA3000I averages 4.5 stars, praised for its rugged build and reliability. An Amazon reviewer in India called it a “beast for server uptime,” noting flawless AVR during frequent voltage dips and clean power for a VMware cluster. Another user highlighted PowerChute’s automation for graceful shutdowns during a 15-minute blackout. Homelab enthusiasts on Reddit value its pure sine wave for sensitive gear and SmartSlot for custom integrations like apcupsd, though some prefer third-party software for Linux setups.
Final Verdict: A Powerhouse for Critical Loads
The APC Smart-UPS SUA3000I remains a formidable choice in 2025 for mid-to-large IT setups in 230V regions, offering pure sine wave reliability, intelligent management, and APC’s proven durability. Despite being discontinued in some markets, CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES for Availability, robust feature set make it a cost-effective alternative to newer SMT models. It’s a solid investment to safeguard against power disruptions.
Ready to protect your infrastructure? CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES for stock. Running an SUA3000I? Drop your outage-saving stories in the comments!