APC Symmetra RM 4kVA UPS: Scalable to 6kVA N+1, 208/240V with 208→120V Transformer

The APC Symmetra RM 4kVA UPS delivers highly available, single-phase power protection designed to keep critical IT infrastructure online even in the face of fluctuating utility power. Built for rapid deployment and seamless expansion, this UPS combines redundancy and scalability with an online double-conversion topology to ensure consistent voltage and clean, isolated power for servers, storage, networking devices, and other essential equipment. Whether you’re outfitting a data center edge, a remote office, or a network closet, the Symmetra RM brings enterprise-grade resilience into a modular, space-efficient footprint that grows with your needs.

• Redundant and scalable double‑conversion online power protection: The Symmetra RM is engineered to deliver continuous, clean power to critical loads by converting incoming AC power to DC and then back to AC with fast, precise regulation. This architecture minimizes input power disturbances, isolates outages from your equipment, and maintains consistent output voltage even during utility disturbances, sags, or outages.
• N+1 high availability with growth capability: Designed to support redundant configurations, the system provides an extra module to ensure uninterrupted operation during maintenance or expansion. As your IT footprint expands, you can add capacity or redundancy without taking downstream systems offline, preserving uptime and service levels.
• 208/240V input with 208→120V step-down transformer: The UPS accommodates 208/240V power sources commonly found in data centers and telecommunication environments. It includes an integrated step-down transformer to safely deliver 208V-derived 120V output where required, enabling seamless support for a broader range of devices and maintaining compatibility with 120V equipment.
• Four L5-20R outlets for critical loads: Four robust L5-20R receptacles provide flexible, high-current outlets for servers, switches, storage arrays, and other essential devices. This layout supports convenient distribution within a rack or cabinet, reducing clutter and simplifying connections in tight spaces.
• Rack-mountable, modular design for easy installation and serviceability: The Symmetra RM’s form factor is optimized for data centers and network closets. Its modular, scalable architecture makes maintenance faster and upgrades simpler, helping you protect your investment while reducing total cost of ownership over time.

Technical Details of APC Symmetra RM 4kVA Scalable to 6kVA N+1 208/240V w/ 208 to 120V Step-Down Transformer (4) L5-20R

• Topology: Redundant, scalable double-conversion online UPS for continuous, clean power delivery
• Power rating: 4 kVA base, scalable to 6 kVA with N+1 redundancy options
• Input voltage: 208/240 V
• Output voltage: 208/120 V via built-in step-down transformer
• Receptacles: 4 x L5-20R outlets for critical equipment
• Phase: Single-phase power protection
• Form factor: RM-series rack-mount configuration designed for data centers and server rooms
• Protection features: High-availability power protection with continuous online conversion and minimal waveform distortion
• Management: Supports standard monitoring and management interfaces common to APC Symmetra RM ecosystems (note: refer to product manuals for specific interfaces and software compatibility)

How to install APC Symmetra RM 4kVA

Installing the Symmetra RM is a straightforward process designed to minimize downtime while ensuring optimal performance. Begin by selecting an appropriate location with adequate cooling, ventilation, and a solid rack or cabinet to support the UPS and any additional modules. Confirm that your facility’s electrical infrastructure provides a stable 208/240V supply and that you have access to the 208/120V transformer configuration to meet your 120V device needs.

1) Prepare the rack and mounting area: Verify the rack’s weight capacity and ensure there is enough clearance for airflow and serviceability. Secure the Symmetra RM to the rack using the included mounting hardware, aligning it with your other equipment to optimize cable management and accessibility.

2) Connect input power: Route the main AC input from your facility power source to the UPS input connection. Use appropriate power distribution and cabling that complies with local electrical codes. If you’re using a 208V or 240V supply, ensure the connection reflects the unit’s input specifications.

3) Connect loads to the UPS: Attach each critical device to the four L5-20R receptacles, grouping devices by power profiles where possible. Avoid overloading any single outlet and distribute high-draw equipment across multiple outlets to maintain balanced loading.

4) Configure output and transformer settings: If your loads require 120V from an 208V source, enable or configure the integrated 208→120V step-down transformer accordingly. Verify that the output voltage matches the needs of connected equipment and adjust settings in the management interface if required.

5) Establish management and monitoring: Connect the UPS to your network or management system using the recommended interface—for example, APC’s management software or compatible SNMP capabilities. Configure alerts for battery health, load levels, and environmental conditions to maintain proactive supervision of your critical infrastructure.

6) Commissioning and testing: Power up the system in a controlled sequence. Check for proper LED indicators or digital readouts that confirm operational status. Perform a controlled load test by simulating a brief outage to verify that the UPS transitions smoothly to battery, maintaining power to connected devices without interruption.

7) Documentation and ongoing maintenance: Preserve all installation records, network maps, and configuration settings. Schedule routine battery health checks and software updates to preserve peak performance. If expansion is anticipated, plan for add-on modules or redundancy upgrades to keep pace with growing demand.

Safety note: Always follow manufacturer installation guidelines and your local electrical code requirements. If you are unsure about electrical connections or transformer configurations, consult a qualified electrician or APC-certified technician to complete the installation.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the APC Symmetra RM 4kVA used for? It’s designed to protect critical IT loads—from servers and storage to network devices—by delivering highly available, clean power with online double-conversion protection and scalable redundancy. It helps minimize downtime, data loss, and performance degradation caused by power disturbances.
• What does N+1 mean in this UPS? N+1 denotes a redundant design where an extra module or capacity is available beyond the required load. This setup allows maintenance or expansion without interrupting power to connected equipment, increasing overall uptime and reliability.
• Can the unit operate with 208/240V input and provide 120V output? Yes. The system is configured for 208/240V input and includes a step-down transformer capable of delivering 208→120V output, enabling compatibility with devices that require 120V while leveraging the higher-voltage supply.
• How many outlets does the UPS provide, and what type are they? The unit features four L5-20R receptacles, which support high-current loads common in data centers and network environments, allowing flexible distribution of critical equipment across the UPS.
• Is installation straightforward for data center environments? The Symmetra RM is designed for rack-mount deployment in data centers and network closets. While basic installation can be performed by on-site IT staff, complex setups involving automation, monitoring integration, or specialized wiring may benefit from APC-certified technicians to optimize redundancy, cooling alignment, and management configuration.