APC Back-UPS BE650G1 650VA Battery Backup: features, specs and fit

The APC Back-UPS BE650G1 is an uninterruptible power supply, or UPS, that combines a battery backup with surge protection. It sits between the wall outlet and equipment such as a computer, modem and router. If the power fails or the voltage fluctuates, the battery takes over so the equipment keeps running for a short time and can be shut down safely.

What 650VA and 390W mean

Two figures describe how much a UPS can carry. VA (volt-amperes) is the apparent power and watts is the real power. This model is listed as 650VA / 390W. The total power of everything plugged into the battery outlets should stay below the 390W figure, so add up the wattages printed on your devices. Battery backup is designed to bridge outages for minutes, not to run equipment for hours.

Eight outlets, two kinds

There are eight NEMA 5-15R outlets:

• Four battery backup and surge protected outlets for gear that must keep running, such as a computer and a modem.
• Four surge protection only outlets for items that can lose power without harm, such as a printer or a lamp.

APC says the battery backup is designed for use during outages and unsafe voltage fluctuations, while the surge protection guards against damaging spikes.

Dataline protection

The unit also has Ethernet dataline surge protection through RJ45 10/100 ports. Routing a network cable through it protects connected equipment from surges that arrive on the data line, not just the power cord.

Cord, mounting and software

The 5-foot power cord has a right-angle three-prong plug (NEMA 5-15P), which helps keep it flat to the wall, and the unit is wall-mountable. A dedicated data port supports PowerChute UPS management on Windows 10 (22H2 Pro) and Windows 11 Pro. APC advises Mac users to use the built-in Energy Saver settings.

Replaceable battery

The internal battery can be replaced with a genuine APC replacement battery, model RBC17, sold separately. All UPS batteries wear out over time, so being able to swap it instead of replacing the whole unit is useful. Follow the manual and any local rules for replacement and disposal.

Size and weight

It measures about 7.1 x 11.2 x 3.4 inches and weighs 13.6 lb, so plan a stable spot on a desk, shelf or wall where you can see the indicators.

Who it suits

It suits home offices, small desks and network corners with a computer, modem and router that need protection from short outages and voltage swings.

What to check before you buy

• Load: total the wattage of what you plan to protect and keep it within 390W.
• Runtime: think about how long you need equipment to run.
• Outlets and spacing: large power adaptors can block neighbouring outlets.
• Software: confirm your operating system works with PowerChute.
• Battery: note the RBC17 replacement battery for later.
• Safety: follow the manual and your local electrical codes for installation and use.

The short version

• A 650VA / 390W APC battery backup and surge protector, model BE650G1.
• Eight outlets: four with battery backup, four with surge protection only.
• Ethernet dataline protection for RJ45 10/100 ports.
• Wall-mountable, with a 5-foot cord and PowerChute support.
• Replaceable RBC17 battery, sold separately.

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