How to replace the APC network management card AP9631 on Smart-UPS RT 15000 XL

[Anonymous user]

Hi All,

I Need to replace a network management card on the working UPS.

But I don't know if I should to turn off the UPS in order to replace the Network Card.

Could somebody provide me an instructions? or forward to the Manual on the APC page?

Thank you

[BillP]

Hi Andrey,

It's always safest to remove power completely from the unit before removing and replacing the NMC.  I believe APC even says to power the system down, including removal of AC, disconnecting the batteries, and "brain deading" (holding down the power on button until a click is heard) the unit.

That being said, I personally have replaced and installed NMCs without removing power with no ill effects.  It all depends on how much risk you are willing to accept.

[BillP]

Larger UPS models like this offer hot swappable SmartSlot accessories.

The Network Management Card itself is made to be hot swappable but it just generally depends on the UPS type. To be completely honest, I think majority of modern UPS models that support SmartSlot accessories are technically hot swappable but my personal belief is that they really just haven't updated the documentation to clarify and err on the side of caution.

I also can't remember the last time I actually "braindead" the UPS to install a SmartSlot accessory (which is yes, powering down the UPS completely and removing AC power and then depending on the model, removing the battery or discharging the capacitors). Other UPSs also say to put the UPS into bypass to install/remove an accessory and then take it out of bypass when you install or remove it.

I would only suggest caution when you have other problems that may warrant a judgement call, such as a UPS with a fault or weird scenario where installing a Network Management Card would cause more problems or potentially damage the management card itself.

[Anonymous user]

That is what I found in the NMC installation guide:

You do not need to turn off power for a Symmetra UPS.

Step 1: Turn off power (Smart-UPS)

Caution: Damage to the UPS or the Network Management Card

can result if you do not remove all AC and DC power from a

Smart-UPS.

What does it mean for my case?

Will be enough just put the UPS in bypass mode? Or is there any manual especial for my UPS system?

I don't have a powerOFF button on my APC Smart-UPS RT 15000 XL. I can only shutdown APC via management display.

After powering OFF should I also unplug the battery pack from UPS? or just the shutdowning will be enough?

[BillP · Accepted solution]

I would just not even worry about it for your UPS and go ahead and remove/install the Network Management Card. As long as the UPS is operating properly and there are no faults, there is virtually no risk.