Can I install a UPS inside a rack?

Rackmount UPS units are 19 inches wide with a height in U, so they fix to the rails like the rest of the equipment. Many are tower/rack convertible, meaning they can stand upright or, with the right kit, be mounted horizontally in a rack. There are both Line-Interactive and Online models, often with the option to connect external battery packs for longer runtime.

Because UPS units are heavy, mainly due to the batteries, fixing them by the front "ears" alone is not enough. Use support rails or a shelf that carries the weight along the full depth, and make sure the rack has enough depth and load capacity. Place the UPS at the bottom, for a low centre of gravity and easy access when replacing batteries.

Practical tip: make sure air can flow freely from front to back, as most rackmount UPS units are designed for, and leave room for the input and output cables. A common mistake is installing the UPS at the top of a rack with closed doors and no ventilation, where heat builds up and shortens battery life.