Eaton 9PXM 20kVA 18kW 208-240V N+1 Modular Scalable Double-Conversion UPS

Engineered for edge data centers, industrial facilities, and demanding commercial networks, the Eaton 9PXM 20kVA 18kW 208-240V N+1 modular UPS delivers unmatched resilience and scalability. This online double-conversion UPS combines rugged reliability with a flexible architecture that supports rapid capacity growth while preserving uptime for mission-critical loads. With a hardwired input configuration, a compact 21U footprint, and a comprehensive outlet configuration (8x 5-20R, 2x L6-30R, 2x L6-20R, 2x L14-30R), the 9PXM line is purpose-built for environments where power quality and availability are non-negotiable. Dual network card slots enable secure, redundant management paths, ensuring IT and facilities teams can monitor, control, and optimize performance without interrupting power delivery. In addition, the unit’s TAA compliance broadens its applicability to government and regulated deployments, making it the go-to solution for edge deployments where space, reliability, and serviceability matter most.

• Modular scalability with N+1 redundancy: The Eaton 9PXM is designed to grow with your workload. Add modular power modules to increase capacity and runtime, while an N+1 configuration provides protection against single-point failures, enabling maintenance or component swaps without disrupting critical loads.
• True online double-conversion protection: With online, double-conversion topology, the UPS continuously regenerates clean, isolated power. It shields sensitive equipment from input voltage sags, outages, transients, and harmonic distortion, delivering a stable output even during sharp grid swings.
• Flexible, enterprise-grade input/output configuration: Hardwired 208-240V input pairs with a versatile set of outlets—8x 5-20R, 2x L6-30R, 2x L6-20R, and 2x L14-30R—so you can power servers, networking gear, and industrial controls from a single rack without compromising circuit protection or cable management.
• Robust management and remote visibility: Dual network card slots give you redundant, secure management paths. Integrate with your SNMP, RESTful, or monitoring tools to observe runtime, voltage, load, and event logs, then receive alerts and push firmware updates without interrupting power delivery.
• Edge-ready form factor with durable build and compliance: The 21U rack-mount design is purpose-built for tight spaces in edge data centers and industrial facilities. Its rugged enclosure, streamlined serviceability, hot-swappable components where applicable, and TAA compliance make it suitable for regulated deployments and fast-moving environments.

Technical Details of Eaton 9PXM 20kVA 18kW

• Power rating: 20 kVA / 18 kW
• Output voltage: 208-240 V
• Input voltage: 208-240 V (hardwired input)
• Topology: Online, double-conversion
• Redundancy: N+1 scalable redundancy
• Form factor: 21U rack-mount enclosure
• Outlet configuration: 8 x 5-20R, 2 x L6-30R, 2 x L6-20R, 2 x L14-30R
• Networking: Dual network card slots for redundant management paths
• Compliance: TAA
• Input connections: Hardwired input
• Management: Local and remote monitoring with SNMP and compatible software
• Recommended environments: Edge data centers, industrial and commercial facilities requiring high availability

How to Install Eaton 9PXM 20kVA 18kW UPS

Installing the Eaton 9PXM 20kVA 18kW UPS is a structured process designed to maximize uptime and maintain power quality for critical loads. Before you begin, verify that your rack location complies with the UPS’s 21U footprint, supports adequate ventilation, and has a clear path for cable management and service access. Engage qualified electrical and IT personnel to perform electrical connections and network configurations. Below is a practical, high-level installation guide to help you plan and execute a successful deployment.

• Plan the site and layout: Confirm the UPS’s location within the data center or facility, ensuring accessibility for maintenance and adequate airflow. Mark a clear path from the main electrical supply to the UPS input, and allocate space for battery modules if you intend to expand runtime later. Consider future cable routing for the 8x 5-20R, 2x L6-30R, 2x L6-20R, and 2x L14-30R outlets to minimize clutter and reduce wear on connectors.
• Rack mounting and physical setup: Install the 21U rack-compatible chassis on a solid, level foundation. Use manufacturer-approved rails and hardware to secure the UPS to the rack. Verify all mounting points are tight, and ensure there is sufficient clearance for airflow and service access at the front and rear of the unit. If you are integrating battery cabinets, mount them in proximity to minimize load line length while maintaining proper ventilation and weight distribution.
• Electrical connections and power protection: Have a licensed electrician connect the hardwired input to a properly rated 208-240V feed with appropriate protection (circuit breakers, fuses, and isolation). Verify that the electrical environment matches the UPS’s specification and that wiring practices conform to local electrical codes. Plan for load distribution across the available outlets to prevent overloading any single branch circuit.
• Outlet and load cabling: Route and label cables for the 8x 5-20R, 2x L6-30R, 2x L6-20R, and 2x L14-30R outlets. Use color-coded or clearly marked cables to simplify future maintenance and reduce the risk of miswiring. Ensure plug types match equipment requirements and implement proper strain relief to protect connectors during routine pulls or rearrangements.
• Management and networking setup: Install the dual network cards and connect them to your management network. Assign IP addresses, configure SNMP or other monitoring protocols, and enable remote access for alerting and firmware updates. Document management credentials and network paths to support rapid incident response and predictable maintenance windows.
• Battery integration and runtime planning: If you plan to use external battery cabinets, connect them according to manufacturer guidelines and verify communication with the UPS. Calculate runtime for representative load using the UPS’s software tools and create a battery maintenance schedule. Schedule regular capacity checks to ensure runtime targets are met under peak load conditions.
• Initial power-up and commissioning: With protective devices in place, perform a controlled power-up sequence. Monitor startup diagnostics and verify that all alarms, LEDs, and displays indicate normal operation. Confirm that the UPS transitions smoothly between online operation and battery mode as needed and that the outlets supply stable voltage within expected tolerances.
• Firmware, integration, and documentation: Update to the latest firmware recommended by Eaton, then integrate with your existing monitoring ecosystem. Collect and store configuration details, network paths, outlet assignments, and maintenance contacts to support long-term reliability and quick issue resolution.

Maintenance and periodic testing are essential to sustaining the high availability promised by the Eaton 9PXM. Schedule routine inspections of battery health, connector integrity, and environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. Use the UPS’s built-in diagnostic tools and remote management capabilities to trigger proactive alerts, preemptive battery replacements, and firmware updates that keep the system aligned with evolving hardware and software standards. For edge deployments, consider a staged rollout that validates performance under representative workloads and simulates grid disturbances to verify the unit’s response and recovery behavior.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the power rating and what does 20 kVA / 18 kW mean for my load?

  A: The Eaton 9PXM is rated for 20 kVA (apparent power) and 18 kW (real power). This means it can support a substantial concurrent load with headroom for future growth. The extra kVA capacity helps accommodate power factor variations of attached equipment and ensures you can maintain uptime during transient events or short-term overloads.

• Q: What outlet types are available and how do I map them to devices?

  A: The UPS provides a mix of receptacles to cover IT gear and industrial controls: 8x 5-20R outlets, 2x L6-30R, 2x L6-20R, and 2x L14-30R. This assortment supports servers, storage, network switches, PDUs, and critical peripherals in a single rack. Plan your device distribution to balance load across circuits and minimize cable clutter.

• Q: What does N+1 redundancy mean for reliability in this UPS?

  A: N+1 redundancy means the system is configured with an extra power module or component beyond the immediate requirement. If one module or component fails or is removed for maintenance, the UPS continues to operate at full capacity, preventing downtime for critical equipment and enabling maintenance without service interruption.

• Q: Is this UPS suitable for edge data centers and harsh industrial environments?

  A: Yes. The 9PXM is designed for edge data centers, industrial facilities, and commercial environments that demand high availability, compact footprint, rugged construction, and straightforward maintenance. Its modular architecture allows quick scaling as workloads grow, while the hardwired input and diverse outlet options support varied deployment scenarios common in edge computing and manufacturing floors.

• Q: How do I ensure optimal runtime and battery health over time?

  A: Plan for battery health by incorporating external battery cabinets if needed and performing periodic capacity tests. Use the UPS software to monitor runtime against actual load, schedule proactive battery replacements before end-of-life, and perform firmware updates to preserve compatibility with your management tools. Regular environmental monitoring (temperature, humidity) also helps extend battery life and maintain performance.

• Q: What maintenance and support options are available?

  A: Eaton provides detailed service options, firmware updates, and remote monitoring capabilities. For ongoing reliability, engage a certified service provider for periodic inspections, battery health checks, cabling inspections, and preventive maintenance plans aligned with your facility’s uptime requirements and regulatory obligations.