Adding a USB port to the UPS? Or replace?

[Anonymous user]

I've got an APC Smart-UPS 1400NET. (I don't know why this model is called "NET": it has only a DB-9 communication connector. It does have a blanking plate over what I presume is a slot that will accept a network card. The user manual makes not a single reference to this.)

I want to have USB communication with this UPS. Does APC offer an optional communication card for this model which adds connectivity to a host computer via USB? If yes, what model is the card? (Ethernet is overkill and would require another switch to split the one Ethernet connection that goes to the host computer.)

If there isn't a communication card available, I'll probably replace the UPS with a newer one. This UPS needs a new battery, $180 according to APC's web site. (Yes, I know other brands are available for lesser, but the experiences I've read on the 'net say that long life is best with APC batteries.)

But a replacement 1500VA model is over $450, out of my price range, hence my questions about upgrading this one...

Ideas?

Thanks!

Message was edited by: DaveCC

[Anonymous user · Accepted solution]

Hi DaveCC, unfortunately we don not offer and smartslot cards that allow for USB ports as you have requested. In order to obtain that functionality, a newer smart ups unit (that has the built in USB port) would have to be purchased. We do offer a trade ups programs if you are interested in a new UPS, in which a discount would be given on the UPS if you trade your old unit in to us (in which we pay for shipping of the old unit to us). Hope this helps.