Review: Out-Of-The-Box Power

By mounting the outlets and input cord on a detachable backplate, Tripp Lite also made this unit easier to service. This particular model requires the NEMA L14-30P split phase, four-wire input connection, but other models in the SmartOnline series require a hard-wire.

An optional accessory will enable the hard-wire connection for the SU6000RT4U. The 12 load-optimized outlets on SU6000RT4U—two NEMA L6-30R type, two NEMA L6-20R type, and eight NEMA 5-15/20R type—can be independently switched on or off using PowerAlert. It's a small thing, but having to crane one's neck to read the horizontal display on an upright unit can get downright annoying. Thankfully, SmartOnline spared CRN Test Center engineers from that crick in the neck by incorporating a rotating LCD display on the front panel for easy viewing regardless of whether it's installed in a rack-mount or tower configuration.

The front panel has switches for powering the UPS on and off, self-testing and for canceling the alarms. It also has diagnostic LEDs offering visual confirmation of all major UPS functions and current site electrical functions.

The SmartOnline UPS is an easy product for solution providers to work with because the unit is shipped fully assembled with the internal batteries. It is ready to go straight out of the box, with no time wasted fiddling with connections.

While there are channel programs in place, Tripp Lite does not have a formalized structure with levels. The programs are individually tailored to meet the requirements and needs of each solution provider and are flexible.

Mark Chambliss, operations manager of the unified communications division of Troubadour, a Houston-based solution provider, said he recommends Tripp Lite products to customers for their reliability, features and competitive pricing.

The primary source of revenue for channel partners comes through margins, as professional service opportunities are limited.

Tripp Lite offers Web-based and on-site sales and technical training at no cost to the channel. The company also offers spifs, rebates, sales contests and warranty extensions.

The unit lists at $3,500 and comes with a two-year product warranty and $250,000 connected equipment insurance. Tripp Lite also offers a 50-percent demo discount.