APC by Schneider Electric RBC21 Replacement Battery Cartridge #21 - 5100 mAh 12V DC Lead Acid - Leak Proof/Maintenance-free - Hot Pluggable
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This replacement battery cartridge features advanced lead acid chemistry that delivers consistent energy output through controlled electrochemical reactions. With 61 VAh of battery energy and 5100 mAh capacity, it provides sufficient runtime for compatible APC UPS units.
The battery is designed for 3-5 years of service life under normal operating conditions, offering long-term value and reliability. Its 12V DC output ensures stable voltage delivery to the UPS system, maintaining proper charging and discharge cycles.
This section brings together practical product details such as Battery Characteristics, Battery Chemistry, Hot Pluggable, Height, so buyers can judge configuration, deployment fit, and day-to-day suitability with less guesswork.
A strong technical summary explains how the product's interfaces, hardware profile, and operating characteristics work together in real deployment. Buyers often need this context to confirm compatibility with existing devices, expected performance in daily use, and whether installation will be straightforward for IT staff or end users.
Key Product Advantages
The APC RBC21 battery cartridge combines safety, reliability, and convenience in a single replacement solution. Its leak-proof construction eliminates the risk of acid spills that can damage equipment and facilities, making it safer than conventional lead acid batteries.
Maintenance-Free Operation
Designed for zero maintenance requirements, this battery eliminates the need for watering, equalization charging, or regular electrolyte checks that traditional lead acid batteries demand.
- No routine maintenance needed
- Sealed construction prevents evaporation
- Consistent performance without intervention
Hot-Pluggable Replacement
The hot-pluggable capability allows battery replacement while the UPS remains operational, ensuring continuous power protection for connected critical devices during maintenance.
- Replace without system shutdown
- Maintains UPS protection during swap
- Reduces downtime for critical systems
Deployment / Use Cases
This replacement battery cartridge is specifically designed for APC UPS systems, making it ideal for maintaining backup power infrastructure in various environments. It serves as a direct replacement for aging or depleted batteries in existing APC UPS installations.
Common deployment scenarios include server rooms, network closets, point-of-sale systems, medical equipment, and telecommunications infrastructure where uninterrupted power is critical. The compact form factor fits standard APC UPS battery compartments while delivering the necessary power capacity.
UPS Battery Refresh
Extend the service life of existing APC UPS units by replacing depleted batteries with this genuine OEM cartridge, restoring original runtime performance and reliability.
Critical Infrastructure Support
Provide reliable backup power for servers, networking equipment, security systems, and other critical devices that require continuous operation during power disturbances.
Physical Profile
Measuring 1.90" high x 4" wide x 5.50" deep and weighing approximately 4.20 pounds, this battery cartridge features a compact design that fits standard APC UPS battery compartments. The dimensions ensure proper airflow and thermal management within the UPS enclosure while maintaining compatibility with existing mounting hardware.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: 1.90" (48.26 mm), 4" (101.60 mm), 5.50" (139.70 mm), 4.20 lb (1905.09 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Width
- 4" (101.60 mm)
- Depth
- 5.50" (139.70 mm)
- Height
- 1.90" (48.26 mm)
- Weight
- 4.20 lb (1905.09 g)
What's in the Box
The package includes everything needed for battery replacement and proper disposal.
Highlights
- Genuine APC replacement battery cartridge #21
- 5100 mAh capacity with 12V DC output
- Lead acid chemistry with leak-proof design
- Maintenance-free operation with no watering required
- Hot-pluggable for replacement without system shutdown
- 3-5 year battery life under normal conditions
- Compatible with APC UPS systems
- Includes connectors and installation guide
- Compact dimensions: 1.90" H x 4" W x 5.50" D
- 1-year limited warranty
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Schneider Electric SA |
| Manufacturer Part Number | RBC21 |
| Brand Name | APC by Schneider Electric |
| Product Name | Replacement Battery Cartridge #21 |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 |
| Product Type | Battery Unit |
| Technical Information | |
| Battery Characteristics | Leak Proof/Maintenance-free |
| Battery Chemistry | Lead Acid |
| Hot Pluggable | Yes |
| Minimum Battery Life | 3 Year |
| Maximum Battery Life | 5 Year |
| Battery Capacity | 5100 mAh |
| Battery Energy | 61 VAh |
| Output Voltage | 12 V DC |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Height | 1.90" (48.26 mm) |
| Width | 4" (101.60 mm) |
| Depth | 5.50" (139.70 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 4.20 lb (1905.09 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | Replacement Battery Cartridge #21 Connectors Battery Recycling Guide Installation Guide Reusable Packaging |
| Compatibility | APC UPSs |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 1 Year |
FAQ
What APC UPS models is the RBC21 battery compatible with?
The RBC21 Replacement Battery Cartridge #21 is designed for compatibility with specific APC UPS systems. While the exact model compatibility should be verified with APC documentation, this battery cartridge is engineered as a genuine OEM replacement for APC UPS units that utilize the #21 battery form factor and electrical specifications.
How does the leak-proof design improve safety compared to standard lead acid batteries?
The leak-proof construction uses advanced sealing technology to prevent acid spills that can occur with conventional lead acid batteries. This eliminates the risk of corrosive damage to UPS components, surrounding equipment, and facility surfaces. The maintenance-free design also prevents electrolyte evaporation and eliminates the need for watering, making it safer for use in enclosed spaces and critical environments.
What does 'hot-pluggable' mean for battery replacement?
Hot-pluggable capability allows you to replace the RBC21 battery while the UPS remains operational and continues providing power to connected devices. This means you can swap batteries without shutting down critical equipment, maintaining continuous power protection during maintenance. The design includes safety features that prevent arcing or electrical issues during the replacement process.
What is the expected service life of this battery cartridge?
The RBC21 battery has a minimum expected life of 3 years and a maximum of 5 years under normal operating conditions. Actual service life depends on factors including environmental temperature, discharge frequency, depth of discharge, and charging characteristics. Proper UPS maintenance and operating within recommended temperature ranges help maximize battery longevity.
What is included in the package with the RBC21 battery?
The package contains the Replacement Battery Cartridge #21, necessary connectors for installation, a battery recycling guide for proper disposal, an installation guide with step-by-step instructions, and reusable packaging. The comprehensive kit ensures you have everything needed for proper installation and environmentally responsible disposal of old batteries.
How do I properly dispose of or recycle this battery when it reaches end of life?
The included battery recycling guide provides instructions for proper disposal. Lead acid batteries should never be disposed of in regular trash due to environmental regulations. Most electronics retailers, battery suppliers, and municipal recycling centers accept lead acid batteries for recycling. The guide helps identify local recycling options to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and responsible disposal practices.
What power capacity is listed for this UPS?
Power specifications help show where the unit fits best, including the type of load level, electrical environment, and backup role it is intended to support. These are usually the most decision-critical facts in a UPS or power-protection comparison.
What voltage details are listed?
The listed power specification is 12 V DC, which helps position the unit for the right load level and installation role.