The APC Smart-UPS VT 20kVA 400V (SUVTP20KH4B4S) is a robust, three-phase uninterruptible power supply (UPS) designed for mission-critical applications in small data centers, large retail stores, regional offices, and laboratory environments. Manufactured by Schneider Electric, this UPS delivers reliable power protection with advanced features like scalability, hot-swappable batteries, and network manageability. In this blog, we’ll explore its specifications, features, performance, and ideal use cases, while noting that this model is discontinued, with the Galaxy VS range as its recommended replacement.
Overview of the APC Smart-UPS VT 20kVA 400V
The Smart-UPS VT 20kVA is part of APC’s award-winning Smart-UPS family, known for centralized three-phase power protection. With a capacity of 16kW / 20kVA, the SUVTP20KH4B4S model includes four battery modules, a 5×8 startup service, internal maintenance bypass, and parallel capability. It ensures uninterrupted power for sensitive equipment during outages or fluctuations, making it a trusted choice for high-density power needs.
Key Specifications
- Output Power Capacity: 16kW / 20kVA
- Max Configurable Power: 16kW / 20kVA
- Nominal Output Voltage: 400V 3-phase (configurable for 380V or 415V)
- Output Voltage Distortion: Less than 5% at full load
- Output Frequency: 47–53 Hz (sync to mains); 50 Hz ±0.1% (not synced)
- Topology: Double Conversion Online
- Waveform Type: Sine wave
- Output Connections: Hard Wire 4-wire (3PH + G), Hard Wire 5-wire (3PH + N + G), Screw Terminals
- Bypass: Built-in Maintenance Bypass, Built-in Static Bypass
- Nominal Input Voltage: 400V 3-phase
- Input Frequency: 40–70 Hz (auto-sensing)
- Input Voltage Range: 304–477V
- Input Connections: Hard Wire 5-wire (3PH + N + G)
- Maximum Input Current: 32A
- Battery Type: Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid (VRLA)
- Included Battery Modules: 4 (9810 VAH, expandable to 4)
- Typical Recharge Time: 5 hours
- Typical Backup Time: 10–15 minutes (depending on load; ~15 min at half load, ~10 min at full load)
- Interface Ports: DB-9 RS-232, Smart-Slot (pre-installed AP9631 Network Management Card)
- Control Panel: Multi-function LCD status and control console
- Audible Noise: 55 dB
- Physical Dimensions: 149.9 x 35.6 x 81.3 cm (59.0 x 14.0 x 32.0 inches)
- Shipping Weight: ~445 kg (981 lbs)
- Certifications: Green Premium label, RoHS/REACh compliant
Key Features
- Reliable Power Protection
The Smart-UPS VT 20kVA uses a double-conversion online topology, delivering a clean sine wave output with less than 5% voltage distortion. Its 95.3% efficiency at full load reduces energy costs while correcting poor frequency and voltage conditions without battery use, ensuring maximum availability. - Parallel Capability
The UPS supports parallel-capacity and parallel-redundant configurations. Parallel-capacity mode increases power by connecting multiple UPS units, while parallel-redundant mode enhances reliability by powering equipment with multiple UPSs, ideal for critical applications. - Dual Mains Input
Dual mains input allows connection to two separate power sources, improving availability by maintaining power if one source fails. This is crucial for data centers and facilities requiring continuous operation. - Scalable Runtime
With four VRLA battery modules (9810 VAH), the UPS provides ~15 minutes of runtime at half load (8kW) and ~10 minutes at full load (16kW). Additional runtime can be added with external battery enclosures, offering flexibility for extended outages. - Hot-Swappable Batteries
The modular, hot-swappable battery design allows replacements without interrupting operations, reducing Mean Time to Repair (MTTR). Batteries can be replaced without tools, and automatic self-tests detect issues early. - Advanced Management
The pre-installed AP9631 Network Management Card enables remote monitoring via Web/SNMP. The UPS is compatible with APC’s InfraStruXure Manager for centralized management. A multi-function LCD console, audible alarms, and LED indicators provide clear status updates, while SmartSlot support allows additional management cards (e.g., temperature/humidity sensors). - Built-in Maintenance Bypass
Internal maintenance and static bypasses supply utility power to loads during UPS maintenance or overloads, eliminating the need for an external bypass and reducing installation costs. - Intelligent Battery Management
Temperature-compensated charging adjusts voltage based on battery temperature, extending battery life (typically 3–5 years). Parallel-connected battery modules enhance redundancy, and precision charging maximizes performance. - Eco-Friendly Design
The Green Premium label ensures compliance with environmental regulations, transparency on lifecycle impacts, and eligibility for take-back programs. Shippable pre-installed modules simplify setup, reducing environmental footprint. - Comprehensive Accessories
The UPS includes battery and power modules pre-installed, bolt-down brackets, a CD with software, an installation guide, a user manual, and a 5×8 startup service for professional setup.
Performance
The Smart-UPS VT 20kVA delivers consistent power for high-density environments. Its double-conversion topology ensures clean power, protecting equipment from surges, spikes, and outages. With a 95.3% efficiency rating, it balances performance and energy savings. The wide input voltage range (304–477V) and auto-sensing frequency (40–70 Hz) ensure compatibility with various power environments.
Runtime is sufficient for most backup scenarios, with 10–15 minutes depending on load, and the option to add external batteries for longer outages. The internal bypass mechanisms ensure seamless power transfer during maintenance or faults, maintaining uptime. User feedback is limited due to the model’s discontinuation, but the Smart-UPS VT series is praised for reliability and ease of maintenance in enterprise settings.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High Reliability: Double-conversion topology and redundant features ensure uninterrupted power.
- Scalability: Parallel capability and expandable runtime meet growing needs.
- Advanced Management: Network manageability and InfraStruXure compatibility simplify monitoring.
- Maintenance-Friendly: Hot-swappable batteries and internal bypass reduce downtime.
- Eco-Conscious: Green Premium label supports sustainability.
- Versatile Connectivity: Dual mains input and configurable output voltages (380V, 400V, 415V).
Cons
- Discontinued Product: No longer available; replaced by Galaxy VS range.
- Large and Heavy: At ~445 kg, it requires significant space and structural support.
- Noise Level: 55 dB may be noticeable in quiet environments.
- Complex Installation: Requires certified electricians, increasing setup costs.
Comparison with Alternatives
Compared to the Eaton 93E 20kVA or Tripp Lite SU20K3/3, the Smart-UPS VT 20kVA offers superior maintenance features like hot-swappable batteries and internal bypass. The Eaton 93E provides higher efficiency (up to 98%) but lacks standard parallel capability. The Tripp Lite model is more compact but has lower efficiency (~94%). The Galaxy VS 20kW, Schneider Electric’s replacement, offers up to 99% efficiency and a smaller footprint but uses internal 9Ah battery strings, potentially limiting runtime without expansion.
For smaller applications, single-phase UPSs like the APC Smart-UPS SRT 10kVA may suffice but lack three-phase support for larger setups.
Ideal Use Cases
The APC Smart-UPS VT 20kVA is ideal for:
- Small Data Centers: Protecting servers, networking, and storage systems.
- Large Retail Stores: Ensuring uptime for point-of-sale and inventory systems.
- Regional Offices: Supporting critical IT infrastructure.
- Laboratory Equipment: Powering sensitive instruments requiring stable power.
For modern deployments, the Galaxy VS range is recommended due to its compact design and higher efficiency.
Conclusion
The APC Smart-UPS VT 20kVA 400V (SUVTP20KH4B4S) is a reliable, feature-rich UPS for mission-critical applications, offering robust power protection, scalability, and ease of maintenance. Its double-conversion topology, parallel capabilities, and hot-swappable batteries make it a strong choice for small data centers and enterprise environments. However, its discontinuation, size, and cost may prompt users to consider the Galaxy VS series for new installations. For facilities still using this model, it remains a dependable solution when properly maintained.
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