APC by Schneider Electric APCRBC173-LI Lithium-Ion Replacement Battery Cartridge #173
Overview
The APCRBC173-LI is a factory-new lithium-ion replacement battery cartridge designed to restore runtime and reliability in compatible APC UPS units. Lithium-ion chemistry offers a meaningful operational advantage over traditional VRLA batteries: longer service life, reduced weight, and a flatter discharge curve that maintains voltage more consistently under load — relevant in any deployment where UPS runtime predictability matters, such as surveillance head-end rooms, network closets, or access control panels running on battery backup. When your UPS signals a battery fault or approaches end-of-service, swapping in a genuine APCRBC173-LI returns the unit to full manufacturer-rated runtime without requiring a full UPS replacement.
Compatibility
The APCRBC173-LI is a cartridge-numbered replacement, meaning compatibility is determined by APC's cartridge reference system. Cartridge #173 LI is the lithium-ion variant in the #173 family. Verify compatibility by matching the cartridge number listed on your existing battery or in your UPS documentation before ordering — do not assume cross-compatibility with other cartridge numbers, even within the same UPS product line. Consult the APC compatibility tool or your UPS model's replacement battery specification to confirm APCRBC173-LI is the correct fit for your unit.
Installation Notes
APC replacement battery cartridges are designed for tool-free hot-swap installation on supported UPS models — no load shutdown required on units with hot-swap capability. Confirm whether your specific UPS model supports hot-swap before proceeding; non-hot-swap units require a controlled shutdown prior to replacement. Lithium-ion cartridges may require a firmware-compatible UPS management card or updated UPS firmware to report battery health correctly — verify UPS firmware version against APC's published compatibility matrix for lithium-ion battery support before commissioning.
