In an era where power reliability can make or break productivity, an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is a critical piece of equipment for homes, offices, and IT setups. But like any system, a UPS is only as good as its battery. When the time comes to replace the battery in your APC Smart-UPS, the APC Replacement Battery Cartridge #55 (RBC55) stands out as a dependable, purpose-built solution. Designed to breathe new life into select APC UPS models, this cartridge ensures your devices stay powered through outages and fluctuations. Let’s unpack what makes the RBC55 a vital component for uninterrupted power.
What is the APC Replacement Battery Cartridge #55?
The APC RBC55 is a genuine replacement battery cartridge crafted by APC, a Schneider Electric brand renowned for its power protection solutions. This sealed lead-acid (SLA) battery pack, rated at 12V and 17Ah, is designed to restore the original performance of compatible APC Smart-UPS models, such as the SMT2200, SMT3000, SUA2200, and SUA3000 series. Comprising two battery cells, the RBC55 delivers a total capacity of 816 volt-ampere-hours (VAh), offering reliable backup power for critical equipment like servers, networking gear, and workstations.
With an expected lifespan of 3 to 5 years under typical conditions, the RBC55 is a maintenance-free, leak-proof powerhouse that keeps your UPS running smoothly. It’s hot-swappable, fully assembled, and backed by a 2-year warranty, making it a practical and trustworthy choice for anyone looking to extend the life of their UPS.
Key Features of the RBC55
- Perfect Compatibility
The RBC55 is engineered specifically for APC Smart-UPS Line Interactive models, ensuring a flawless fit with units like SMT2200, SMT3000, SUA2200XL, and SUA5000RMT5U, among others. APC tests and certifies each cartridge to match the UPS’s intelligent battery management system, maintaining safety certifications (UL, VDE, CSA) and equipment protection policies. - Hot-Swappable Convenience
No one wants downtime, and with the RBC55, you don’t have to endure it. Its hot-swappable design allows you to replace the battery without powering down your UPS or connected devices. This feature is a lifesaver for businesses and IT environments where every second of uptime counts. - Robust and Reliable Design
The RBC55 uses sealed lead-acid technology, making it spill-proof and safe for transport. Its high-current, gas-tight crimps and included fuses ensure a secure connection, while the 3- to 5-year lifespan offers long-term dependability for standby power needs. - Simple Installation
Arriving fully assembled with all necessary connectors, the RBC55 is a plug-and-play solution. It includes clear instructions, so even users with minimal technical expertise can swap it out in minutes—no tools or downtime required. - Eco-Conscious Recycling
APC makes sustainability easy. The RBC55 comes with reusable packaging and, in many regions, prepaid postage to a recycling partner. This ensures your old battery is disposed of responsibly, with nearly all lead content reused to minimize environmental impact. - Quality Assurance
Unlike third-party alternatives, the RBC55 is built to APC’s exacting standards. The company monitors battery health during storage and demands top-tier quality from suppliers, reducing risks of poor performance or damage to your UPS.
Why Replace Your UPS Battery?
Batteries degrade over time, losing capacity due to chemical wear. A failing battery in your Smart-UPS could leave you vulnerable to data loss or equipment failure during a power outage. The RBC55 restores your UPS to its original runtime—typically 6-7 minutes at full load (1000W) or longer at partial loads—giving you ample time to save work or shut down safely. Regular replacement every 3-5 years keeps your power protection strategy intact.
Installation: Quick and Painless
Swapping in the RBC55 is a breeze:
- Verify Compatibility: Ensure your UPS model (e.g., SMT2200I, SUA3000XL) supports the RBC55.
- Access the Battery Compartment: Open the UPS panel (consult your manual for specifics).
- Remove the Old Cartridge: Disconnect and slide out the spent battery.
- Install the RBC55: Slide in the new cartridge, connect it securely, and close the panel.
- Test: Power on the UPS and check the status via the LCD or software.
The process takes less than 10 minutes, and because it’s hot-swappable, your network stays online.
Who Benefits from the RBC55?
- Small Businesses: Keep POS systems, servers, and office equipment running during outages.
- IT Professionals: Maintain uptime for critical infrastructure with minimal fuss.
- Home Users: Protect PCs, NAS drives, or routers from power disruptions.
Its compatibility with high-capacity Smart-UPS models makes it ideal for environments where reliability is paramount.
Specs at a Glance
- Battery Type: Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid (VRLA)
- Voltage/Capacity: 12V, 17Ah (two cells)
- Weight: Approximately 24.25 lbs (11 kg)
- Dimensions: 7.13 x 6 x 10.24 inches (18.1 x 15.2 x 26 cm)
- Operating Temp: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C)
- Warranty: 2 years
The APC Advantage
Opting for the RBC55 over generic alternatives means you’re investing in APC’s legacy of quality. Third-party batteries can vary widely in performance and safety, potentially risking your UPS or connected devices. With the RBC55, you get a product designed to integrate seamlessly, backed by a brand that’s powered millions of systems worldwide.
Final Thoughts
The APC Replacement Battery Cartridge #55 (RBC55) is more than just a spare part—it’s a renewal for your UPS, ensuring your critical systems stay protected. Its ease of use, guaranteed compatibility, and eco-friendly design make it a standout choice for anyone relying on APC’s Smart-UPS lineup. Whether you’re safeguarding a server room or a home office, the RBC55 delivers the reliability you need when the lights go out.
Ready to keep your power backup in top shape? The RBC55 is your ticket to uninterrupted peace of mind.
CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES.