In today’s digital landscape, power reliability is critical for protecting sensitive electronics in small businesses, home offices, and network environments. The APC Smart-UPS C 1000VA LCD 230V (SMC1000I), manufactured by Schneider Electric, is a line-interactive uninterruptible power supply (UPS) designed to deliver robust power protection for servers, networking equipment, and point-of-sale systems. With a 1000VA/600W capacity, it combines efficiency, reliability, and user-friendly features. In this blog, we’ll explore its specifications, design, performance, and user feedback to help you determine if it’s the right UPS for your needs.
Key Specifications
Here’s a detailed look at the APC Smart-UPS C 1000VA (SMC1000I) specifications:
- Capacity: 1000VA / 600W
- Topology: Line-Interactive
- Input Voltage: 230V (adjustable range: 170-300V; default: 180-287V)
- Output Voltage: 230V
- Output Connections: 8x IEC 320 C13, 2x IEC Jumpers (all with battery backup)
- Input Connection: IEC 320 C14
- Battery Type: Maintenance-free sealed lead-acid battery (APCRBC142 replacement cartridge)
- Battery Recharge Time: 3 hours
- Battery Life: 3-5 years
- Runtime: ~6 minutes 1 second at full load (600W); ~17 minutes at half load (300W)
- Transfer Time: 6ms typical (10ms maximum)
- Surge Protection: 455 Joules
- Dimensions: 21.9 cm (H) x 17.1 cm (W) x 43.9 cm (D)
- Weight: 17.27 kg (19.55 kg packaged)
- Communication Ports: USB, Serial (RJ-45)
- Control Panel: Multifunction LCD status and control console
- Certifications: CE, EAC, GOST, VDE, ENERGY STAR (EU)
- Warranty: 2-year repair or replace
- Environmental: Operates at 0-40°C; 0-95% non-condensing humidity; 0-10,000 ft altitude
These specifications make the SMC1000I ideal for small-scale power protection needs.
Design and Build
The SMC1000I features a compact tower design, measuring 21.9 x 17.1 x 43.9 cm and weighing 17.27 kg, making it suitable for small offices or server closets. Its charcoal-black enclosure is durable and professional, though it’s not rack-mountable, which may limit its use in certain IT setups. The front panel houses a multifunction LCD display, providing real-time data on input/output voltage, load levels, battery status, and estimated runtime, enhancing usability for non-technical users.
The UPS includes a USB cable, software CD, and documentation for straightforward setup. Its hot-swappable, user-replaceable battery simplifies maintenance without powering down connected devices. Schneider Electric emphasizes sustainability, with the SMC1000I featuring packaging made from at least 70% recycled cardboard and a take-back program for recycling, aligning with their “Use Better, Use Longer, Use Again” campaign.
Performance
The SMC1000I employs line-interactive technology with Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR), correcting voltage fluctuations (180-287V) without relying on the battery, which extends battery life and improves efficiency. Its pure sine wave output ensures compatibility with sensitive electronics, such as servers and devices with active Power Factor Correction (PFC) power supplies, preventing equipment malfunctions. Real-world tests show sequential transfer speeds of ~120-140 MB/s, with a transfer time of 6-10ms for seamless power transitions during outages.
At full load (600W), the UPS provides approximately 6 minutes 1 second of runtime, while at half load (300W), it extends to ~17 minutes, sufficient for safe shutdowns or generator activation. The patented Green Mode achieves up to 97% efficiency by bypassing unused electrical components during stable power conditions, earning Energy Star certification and reducing utility costs and heat output (100 Btu/h). The acoustic level of 41 dBA is relatively quiet, though it may be noticeable in silent environments.
Key Features
The SMC1000I offers a robust set of features for reliable power protection:
- Pure Sine Wave Output: Simulates utility power for compatibility with sensitive electronics.
- Green Mode: Enhances efficiency, reducing energy costs and heat generation.
- LCD Display: Provides clear, real-time status updates on load, battery, and runtime.
- Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): Stabilizes voltage without battery use, ideal for areas with unstable power.
- Intelligent Battery Management: Optimizes battery life through temperature-compensated charging and periodic self-tests.
- Surge Protection: Offers 455 Joules of surge energy rating and full-time multi-pole noise filtering (0.3% IEEE surge let-through).
- Cold-Start Capability: Provides temporary battery power during utility outages.
- Software Support: Includes PowerChute Business Edition for monitoring, safe shutdowns, and energy management.
These features make the SMC1000I suitable for protecting entry-level servers, VoIP systems, routers, and retail POS setups.
Compatibility and Software
The SMC1000I is plug-and-play compatible with Windows 10+, macOS (after reformatting), and select Linux systems via USB or serial connectivity. PowerChute Business Edition enables remote management, safe shutdowns, and customizable settings like voltage sensitivity and alarm delays. An optional network management card (e.g., APC SMC1000I-2UC) allows remote monitoring via a web interface, though it’s not included. The UPS supports cloud-based monitoring through APC’s SmartConnect feature in some regions, enhancing IT management.
User Experiences
Users praise the SMC1000I for its reliability, compact design, and ease of use. Reviews on sites like APC’s official page and Swiftermall highlight its performance in small offices, with one user noting its ability to power a workstation and router during frequent outages without issues. The LCD display and AVR are frequently praised for simplifying monitoring and stabilizing power. However, some criticisms include:
- Limited runtime at full load (~6 minutes), requiring external battery packs for extended outages.
- Weight (17.27 kg) makes it less portable.
- No SNMP support in the base model, limiting advanced network integration.
- Occasional software issues with PowerChute detecting the drive.
The 2-year warranty provides peace of mind, though users recommend regular battery maintenance (every 3-5 years) to ensure longevity.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Pure sine wave output for sensitive electronics
- High efficiency (>97%) with Green Mode
- Intuitive LCD display for real-time monitoring
- Hot-swappable, user-replaceable battery
- Robust surge protection (455 Joules)
- Eco-friendly design with recyclable packaging
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Short runtime at full load (~6 minutes)
- No SNMP support in base model
- Relatively heavy (17.27 kg)
- Not rack-mountable
- Occasional software connectivity issues
Conclusion
The APC Smart-UPS C 1000VA LCD 230V (SMC1000I) is a reliable, efficient, and user-friendly UPS tailored for small businesses, home offices, and network environments. Its line-interactive topology, pure sine wave output, and Green Mode ensure stable power delivery and cost savings, while the LCD interface simplifies management. Though its runtime is limited at full load and it lacks rack-mount capability, its affordability, robust features, and trusted APC brand make it an excellent choice for protecting critical equipment.
For pricing and availability, CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES. Regular maintenance, such as battery replacement every 3-5 years, is essential to maximize performance and reliability.