Modular UPS Systems

Modular UPS systems: scale capacity and redundancy without replacing the UPS

A modular UPS is built from a frame that holds hot-swappable power modules and battery modules. You buy the capacity you need today, then add modules as the load grows. Adding one module more than the load needs gives you N+1 redundancy: if a module fails, the others carry the load while the failed one is swapped, with the UPS still online. That is why modular designs are the standard choice for server rooms, data centres, telecom and healthcare IT, where a UPS outage is not an option.

This collection lists the modular families we supply in Canada: Vertiv Liebert APS, Eaton 9PXM, APC Smart-UPS Modular Ultra, Eaton BladeUPS (discontinued by Eaton; replacement 93PX), APC Symmetra PX, APC Galaxy VS and Eaton 93PM, from 5 kVA single-phase frames up to 150 kW three-phase systems.

Models at a glance

A representative selection. The full list with every capacity and configuration is further down this page.

Runtimes are the manufacturer's full-load figures with the internal batteries shown. Most modular systems add battery modules or external battery cabinets for longer runtime, so the runtime you get depends on the configuration.

How to choose a modular UPS

Size by watts and plan for growth. Add up the real load in watts, then add headroom. With a modular frame you size the frame for where the load will be in a few years and the modules for where it is today.

Decide on redundancy. For N+1, install one power module more than the load requires. Example: a 12 kW load on 4 kW modules needs 3 modules; N+1 means 4.

Single-phase or three-phase. Liebert APS, Eaton 9PXM and the smaller Smart-UPS Modular Ultra frames serve single-phase loads in racks and closets. Symmetra PX, Galaxy VS, BladeUPS systems and 93PM are three-phase systems for rooms and data centres, usually hardwired by an electrician.

Runtime. Internal battery runtime is short by design: enough to ride through an outage, bridge to a generator or shut down cleanly. For longer autonomy, add battery modules or external battery cabinets that match the frame.

Rack or floor. Rack frames fit a standard 19-inch rack; the larger three-phase systems are floor-standing cabinets. Check the installed height, the weight and the cable entry (top or bottom) before ordering.

Why modular

• Pay for today's capacity and add modules later
• N+1 redundancy inside a single UPS
• Hot-swappable power and battery modules, so maintenance happens with the load online
• Smaller spare-parts stock: one module type covers the frame
• Online double-conversion power on every family listed here

Quotes, configuration and shipping

Most modular systems are configured to order, and units above CAD 10,000 are sold by quote. Request a quote with your load, voltage, redundancy and runtime target, and we will confirm the frame, modules and battery configuration. New units carry the manufacturer's warranty. Ships from Canada.

New to modular UPS? Read our modular UPS buyer's guide, see all three-phase UPS systems, or ask about installation and consulting.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a modular UPS and a standard UPS?
A standard UPS has a fixed capacity. A modular UPS takes power and battery modules in a frame, so you can raise capacity or add redundancy by adding modules instead of replacing the unit.

What does N+1 mean?
N is the number of modules the load needs. N+1 adds one spare module, so the system keeps running at full load if any one module fails.

Can I add modules later?
Yes, up to the frame's maximum. Choose the frame for your future load and populate it for today's load.

Do modular systems need an electrician?
The smaller single-phase frames plug in or hardwire depending on the model. Three-phase systems are hardwired and should be installed by a licensed electrician.

Can you help size the system?
Yes. Send us the load in watts, the input voltage and phase, the runtime you need and your redundancy target, and we will recommend a configuration.