In today’s always-on digital landscape, ensuring uninterrupted power for critical IT infrastructure is non-negotiable. Whether you’re managing a small business server, a home office setup, or a large data center, the ability to monitor and control your Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) remotely can make all the difference. The APC UPS Network Management Card 3 with PowerChute Network Shutdown (AP9640) is a powerful accessory that transforms APC Smart-UPS units into intelligent, network-connected devices. In this blog, we’ll explore the AP9640’s key features, benefits, specifications, and ideal use cases, showing why it’s a must-have for modern power management.
What is the APC UPS Network Management Card 3 (AP9640)?
The APC Network Management Card 3 (AP9640) is a plug-in module designed by Schneider Electric’s APC brand to enable secure, remote monitoring and control of individual APC Smart-UPS units. Compatible with a wide range of APC UPS models equipped with a SmartSlot, the AP9640 connects your UPS to a network, allowing management via a web browser, command-line interface (CLI), or Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP). Bundled with PowerChute Network Shutdown software, it ensures graceful, unattended shutdowns of servers, virtual machines, and hyper-converged infrastructure during extended power outages.
As part of APC’s third-generation Network Management Card (NMC3) lineup, the AP9640 builds on over 25 million Smart-UPS units sold globally, offering advanced security, robust connectivity, and proactive insights for IT environments of all sizes.
Key Features of the APC AP9640
The AP9640 is packed with features that elevate UPS management to the next level. Here’s what stands out:
- Secure Remote Monitoring and Control
The AP9640 enables real-time monitoring of UPS status, including battery health, load levels, and runtime estimates, from anywhere via:- Web browser (HTTPS/TLS 1.2 for secure access)
- Command-line interface (SSH with up to 2048-bit encryption)
- SNMP (v1/v2c/v3) for integration with network management systems (NMS). This eliminates the need for on-site checks, saving time and resources.
- PowerChute Network Shutdown Software
Included with the AP9640, PowerChute Network Shutdown provides unattended, graceful shutdowns of:- Physical servers
- Virtual machines (VMware ESXi, Microsoft Hyper-V)
- Hyper-converged infrastructure (HCI) clusters Certified as VMware Ready, Nutanix Ready, and Nutanix-AHV Ready, it ensures safe shutdowns to prevent data loss during power events.
- Advanced Security Features
The AP9640 prioritizes data protection with:- Strong password policies and user-selectable passwords
- 3-tier user access (admin, device, read-only)
- Secure protocols (HTTPS, SSH, SNMPv3)
- EAPoL for IEEE 802.1x network access control
- 2048-bit encryption and secure file transfer (SCP) These features safeguard sensitive IT environments against unauthorized access.
- Comprehensive Notifications
Stay informed with configurable alerts via:- Email (SMTP with secure authentication)
- Syslog and SNMP traps for integration with monitoring tools
- Event logging to pinpoint issues before they escalate Notifications ensure timely responses to power events or UPS maintenance needs.
- Data and Event Logging
The AP9640 offers 100x more data and event log space than previous models, allowing you to:- Track UPS performance trends
- Analyze incidents with detailed timestamps
- Export logs for diagnostics or compliance
- Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity
Equipped with a Gigabit Ethernet port (10/100/1000Base-T), the AP9640 ensures fast, reliable network performance, supporting both IPv4 and IPv6 protocols. - Flash-Upgradeable Firmware
Update firmware remotely via FTP to keep the card current with the latest features and security patches. Note: Some users report a potential subscription requirement for future updates post-2023, though APC’s support has been unclear on this point. - EcoStruxure IT Integration
The AP9640 integrates with APC’s EcoStruxure IT platform for centralized management of multiple UPS units, providing vendor-neutral insights into critical IT assets. - Smart Battery Management
For compatible APC Smart-UPS models (e.g., SRT, SRTL), the AP9640 offers detailed battery analytics, including cartridge parameters and early fault warnings. - Multi-Language Support
The card’s interface supports multiple languages, making it accessible to global users without additional configuration.
Specifications at a Glance
- Model: AP9640
- Device Type: Remote management adapter
- Form Factor: Plug-in module (SmartSlot-compatible)
- Interfaces: 1x Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45), 1x USB
- Network Protocols: TCP/IP, SMTP, HTTP, HTTPS, SNMP (v1/v2c/v3), SSH, SSL, Telnet, IPv4, IPv6, NTP
- Dimensions: 12.1 cm (W) x 11.4 cm (D) x 3.8 cm (H)
- Weight: 80 g
- Operating Environment: 0-45°C, 0-95% relative humidity
- Included: AP9640 card, USB cable, user manual
- Warranty: 2 years (manufacturer)
- Certifications: RoHS, REACH, VMware Ready, Nutanix Ready
Benefits of the AP9640
The AP9640 delivers a host of advantages for IT professionals and businesses:
- Proactive Management: Remote access and detailed analytics help identify issues before they disrupt operations.
- Data Protection: Graceful shutdowns via PowerChute prevent data loss and ensure business continuity.
- Time Savings: Eliminates the need for on-site monitoring, with alerts keeping you informed in real-time.
- Scalability: Supports single UPS units or integrates with EcoStruxure IT for larger deployments.
- Enhanced Security: Robust encryption and access controls protect your IT infrastructure.
- Efficiency: Gigabit connectivity and vendor-neutral architecture streamline UPS management across diverse environments.
- Cost-Effective: At roughly $250-$350 USD (depending on region), it’s an affordable upgrade for Smart-UPS units.
Ideal Use Cases
The AP9640 is versatile enough to suit a variety of scenarios, including:
- Small Businesses: Monitors and manages UPS units powering servers, networking gear, or POS systems, ensuring uptime and safe shutdowns.
- Home Offices: Provides remote control for UPS units protecting high-end PCs, NAS drives, or routers, ideal for tech enthusiasts.
- Data Centers: Enhances UPS management in rack environments, integrating with VMware or Hyper-V for virtualized setups.
- Branch Offices: Supports distributed IT infrastructure, allowing centralized monitoring of UPS units across multiple locations.
- Retail and Healthcare: Ensures power protection for critical systems like kiosks or medical equipment, with automated shutdowns to safeguard data.
For example, a small business using an APC Smart-UPS SMT1500 could install the AP9640 to remotely monitor battery status and configure PowerChute to shut down a file server and NAS during a prolonged outage, preventing data corruption.
Recent User Feedback
The AP9640 has earned high praise for its functionality, though some concerns have surfaced:
- Pros:
- Ease of Use: Users like DerekB (CDW.com) call it “plug and play,” noting easy installation in a Smart-UPS SMT1500C and reliable notifications.
- Customization: Quirkymojo highlights the “impressive” customization options, such as thresholds, alarms, and load-shedding, ideal for servers or gaming rigs.
- Fast Setup: A reviewer on Amazon.de reports seamless integration with a rack-mounted SMT1000, with SNMP and SMTP configured in hours.
- Cons:
Overall, the AP9640 is lauded for its reliability and robust features, with minor gripes about potential future costs not detracting from its current value.
Tips for Using the AP9640
- Prepare Your Network: Set up DHCP or static IP configurations in advance for smooth integration, as noted by users with Unifi setups.
- Update Firmware Early: Check for firmware updates upon installation to ensure the latest security patches, but be aware of potential subscription prompts.
- Configure PowerChute: Customize shutdown sequences for your servers or VMs to match your environment, leveraging VMware/Hyper-V integrations.
- Enable Alerts: Set up email or SNMP notifications to stay proactive about UPS events, such as low battery or overload conditions.
- Test Shutdowns: Simulate a power outage to verify PowerChute’s shutdown behavior, ensuring critical systems power down safely.
- Secure Access: Use strong passwords and enable HTTPS/SSH to protect against unauthorized access, as emphasized by the card’s security features.
Why Choose APC?
APC, a Schneider Electric brand, is synonymous with power protection, with the Smart-UPS series being the world’s most trusted UPS, boasting over 25 million units sold. The AP9640 reflects APC’s commitment to innovation, offering:
- Proven Reliability: Backed by decades of expertise in UPS solutions.
- Global Support: Available through APC’s extensive reseller network, with a 2-year warranty and take-back programs.
- Future-Ready Design: Integrates with modern IT platforms like EcoStruxure IT and supports emerging protocols like IPv6.
The AP9640 is a critical upgrade for any Smart-UPS user looking to modernize their power management without replacing existing hardware.
Conclusion
The APC UPS Network Management Card 3 with PowerChute Network Shutdown (AP9640) is a powerful tool that brings intelligence and connectivity to APC Smart-UPS units. With secure remote monitoring, advanced security, and graceful shutdown capabilities, it ensures your critical systems stay protected and operational, no matter the power conditions. Whether you’re managing a single UPS or a network of devices, the AP9640’s versatility, ease of use, and integration options make it an invaluable addition to your IT arsenal.
Ready to take control of your UPS? The AP9640 is available CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES.