In-depth: EnterprisePlus LCD RT vs. RTXL – which one is right for you?
A few weeks back, we launched the all-new EnterprisePlus LCD UPS in our PowerNews Newsletter (you are subscribed to that, right?) and here on the PowerBlog. Over the coming weeks we’ll be taking an in-depth look at several of the new features on these units, starting with this first post – RT vs. RTXL: Which one is right for you?
So, what are all those numbers and letters at the end of the new EnterprisePlus LCD models anyway? While they may look a bit random, each one serves a purpose in explaining exactly what the unit is capable of. Come along and we’ll show you.
Knowledge is Power
To help get you ahead of the curve, let’s break down all the numbers and letters so you can be sure of what you’re looking at when browsing through the updated EnterprisePlus LCD product line.
As the graphic above shows, the UPS model number breaks down into 5 sections – Series, Rating, Mounting Format, Runtime Capability, and Rack Height. Let’s look at these a little more in-depth:
- UPS Series – all Minuteman model numbers begin with a series designation (E for Enterprise, ED for Endeavor, EN for EnSpire, etc.)
- VA Rating – the number that comes second is the VA rating, or total capacity, for the unit
- Mounting Format – in our rack-mountable models, the RT designation stands for Rack/Tower. Tower-only models lack this portion (i.e. ETR1500)
- Runtime Capability – exclusive to the EnterprisePlus LCD, the XL designates that this model is extended runtime capable. Lower cost Standard Runtime models lack this field.
- Rack Height – installed height required for mounting in a standard 19-inch rack; in this case 2U, or 3.5 inches
RT vs. RTXL – Standard vs. Extended Runtime
To decide between the RT and RTXL models within the EnterprisePlus LCD lineup, the first consideration is what equipment you will be backing up. Does it need to be available for extended periods of time – essentially, do you need minutes of time in an outage or hours?
If the answer is hours, for equipment such as telephone systems, servers, security devices, or other critical equipment, the RTXL is the best option as it allows the connection of XL and EXL external battery packs. Even if the need for substantial runtimes is not immediately apparent, choosing the RTXL can be a good insurance plan for later.
The RT model is a lower cost option for areas where the base runtime of the unit will be all that is needed. Savings at the initial purchase can be as much as 13%, opening this model up to a wide range of budgets in the telecommunications, IT, and security sectors.
Determining the runtime for your System
Minuteman’s SizeMyUPS.com is an excellent resource for properly sizing an EnterprisePlus LCD UPS for your system. Simply select your equipment from the extensive database, or enter your loads if they are already known. Then select EnterprisePlus LCD from the Narrow by Product Line dropdown to see the solutions available for your application and the estimated runtimes they will provide.
Learn more about the all-new EnterprisePlus LCD UPS >>
Size an EnterprisePlus LCD UPS for your system now at SizeMyUPS >>