Middle Atlantic UPX-EXPANRUN-OL20 Nexsys 2000VA Online UPS Run Time Expansion Unit
The Middle Atlantic UPX-EXPANRUN-OL20 is a 2RU rack-mount runtime expansion module for the Nexsys Online UPS platform — purpose-built for security integrators and AV system designers who need longer hold times without swapping out the entire UPS chassis. At 2000VA with a true online (double-conversion) topology and a 48VDC battery output, this unit extends the runtime of a compatible Nexsys UPS system by adding battery capacity in a self-contained, rack-ready form. If your surveillance head-end, VoIP switching stack, or access control infrastructure sits in a rack and a 15-minute hold time isn't enough, this expansion module is how you extend it without redesigning your power distribution.
The UPX-EXPANRUN-OL20 is part of Middle Atlantic's Middle Atlantic power and rack solutions line, designed for integration into structured AV and security rack builds. For context on selecting UPS capacity and topology for surveillance infrastructure, see the UPS and power backup category.
Key Features
- Online (Double-Conversion) Topology: Unlike standby or line-interactive UPS designs that switch to battery on utility failure, an online topology runs equipment continuously from the inverter — utility power never directly reaches the load. Zero transfer time means sensitive NVRs, managed switches, and access control panels never see even a momentary sag or surge. This matters when you're protecting equipment that can drop a recording or a door credential transaction on a 20ms glitch.
- 2000VA / 48VDC Output Architecture: The 48VDC battery bus pairs with the Nexsys UPS chassis to extend runtime at load. The AC output (110–127 VAC) is regulated by the inverter, keeping output clean regardless of what the utility is doing. This is the correct spec to check when sizing a Nexsys expansion: 48V bus compatibility is non-negotiable for this platform.
- 2RU / 19-inch Rack Form Factor: At 19 in wide and 3.5 in tall (2RU), this unit drops into any standard EIA-310 rack with a minimum mounting depth of 18 in and a maximum of 32 in. At 63.9 lbs (29 kg) product weight — shipping weight is 72.09 lbs — plan rack loading carefully. Two-person installation is not optional at this weight. Four mounting points are provided for secure rail engagement.
- 15A / NEMA 5-15P Input: The unit draws from a standard 15-amp 120 VAC circuit (NEMA 5-15P plug, 6 ft cord). A dedicated 20A circuit is not required, which simplifies installation in facilities where 20A outlets aren't pre-wired to every rack position. Confirm the circuit is dedicated — sharing a 15A branch with other loads will compromise the available runtime math.
- NEMA 5-15R Receptacles: Output receptacles are NEMA 5-15R, matching the standard plug type used by most rack-mount network and security equipment. No adapters needed for typical deployments.
- 3-Year Battery Warranty: The documented battery warranty period is 3 years — longer than the industry-typical 1-year coverage on sealed lead-acid UPS batteries. For systems in unmanned equipment rooms, this reduces the maintenance planning burden.
- Operating Temperature Range 32°–104°F (0°–40°C): Standard commercial environment rating. This unit is not designed for uncontrolled outdoor enclosures or unconditioned spaces that see summer temperatures above 104°F. Equipment rooms with proper HVAC are the target environment.
- RoHS Compliant: Meets RoHS environmental compliance requirements. Relevant for deployments in facilities or jurisdictions with materials-restriction requirements.
Integration and Compatibility
The UPX-EXPANRUN-OL20 is designed to integrate with the Nexsys Online UPS platform from Middle Atlantic. The 48VDC bus connection is proprietary to this platform — this unit does not function as a standalone UPS and is not compatible with third-party UPS systems. Verify the host Nexsys UPS chassis model supports external runtime expansion before ordering. The unit occupies 2RU in the rack and requires a rack with a minimum usable depth of 18 in and a maximum of 32 in — measure your rack cabinet before finalizing the order. For rack power distribution planning in multi-device security head-ends, factor this unit's 63.9 lb weight into your rail and rack load calculations. Integration with power management software depends on the host Nexsys UPS chassis capabilities, not on this expansion module directly. TAA compliance is not claimed for this unit; verify procurement requirements accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the UPX-EXPANRUN-OL20 a standalone UPS, or does it require a host Nexsys chassis?
A: The UPX-EXPANRUN-OL20 is a runtime expansion module, not a standalone UPS. It requires a compatible Middle Atlantic Nexsys Online UPS chassis to function. It adds battery capacity to extend the runtime of the host UPS system via the 48VDC bus — it cannot power equipment independently.
Q: What is the battery warranty on the UPX-EXPANRUN-OL20?
A: The documented battery warranty is 3 years, which exceeds the typical 1-year battery coverage common on competing UPS platforms.
Q: What rack depth is required to install the UPX-EXPANRUN-OL20?
A: The unit requires a rack with a minimum mounting depth of 18 inches and a maximum mounting depth of 32 inches. The unit itself is 16 inches deep and 2RU (3.5 inches) tall in a standard 19-inch rack width.
Q: Is the UPX-EXPANRUN-OL20 TAA compliant?
A: No. The UPX-EXPANRUN-OL20 is not TAA compliant. It is manufactured in China and is not eligible for federal procurement programs requiring TAA compliance. Verify your procurement requirements before ordering.
Q: What input power does the UPX-EXPANRUN-OL20 require?
A: The unit requires a standard 120 VAC, 15-amp circuit. It uses a NEMA 5-15P plug on a 6-foot cord. A dedicated 15A branch circuit is recommended to ensure full runtime capacity.
Q: How heavy is the UPX-EXPANRUN-OL20, and are special mounting considerations required?
A: The product weight is 63.9 lbs (29 kg), with a shipping weight of 72.09 lbs. Two-person installation is strongly recommended. The unit uses 4 rack mounting points. Verify your rack rail and cabinet weight capacity before installation.
The UPX-EXPANRUN-OL20 (often searched as UPX EXPANRUN OL20) addresses a specific gap that comes up repeatedly in mid-size security rack builds: the host Nexsys UPS chassis has the capacity but not the runtime for the application. At 63.9 lbs in a 2RU form factor running on a 48VDC battery bus, this isn't a casual add-on — it's a deliberate infrastructure decision that has to be planned into the rack build from the start.
Technical Highlights:
- Online topology: Double-conversion means zero transfer time to battery — critical for NVR and managed switch hardware that can log errors or drop sessions on even a brief power interruption. Standby UPS designs with 8–20ms transfer windows don't meet this bar.
- 48VDC bus architecture: The expansion module communicates with the host Nexsys chassis via the 48V battery bus. This is a platform-specific interface — confirm host chassis compatibility before purchasing. Mismatching bus voltage is a non-starter.
- 15A / NEMA 5-15P input: Standard 15-amp input keeps installation straightforward in most commercial equipment rooms. The 6-foot cord gives enough slack for typical rack-to-PDU runs, but in deep cabinets with rear-mounted PDUs, measure the run before assuming the cord reaches.
Deployment Considerations:
- At 63.9 lbs, this unit exceeds the single-person lift limit for most facilities' safety guidelines — coordinate two-person installation and verify your rack rail's per-shelf weight rating before sliding it in. Some mid-range open-frame racks are not rated for this load on a single shelf.
- The 32°–104°F operating range means this unit is not a candidate for uncontrolled telecom closets or outdoor enclosures that see summer peaks above 104°F — runtime and battery life both degrade rapidly above rated temperature.
The UPX-EXPANRUN-OL20 is the right call for commercial surveillance and access control head-ends where the design requires 30+ minutes of runtime on a Nexsys platform and adding a second full UPS chassis isn't feasible in the available rack space. It's specifically suited to integrators building out structured AV/security racks where the Nexsys ecosystem is already the power platform of record.
