MEAN WELL: Single- and Three-Phase UPS for Reliable Power – Stationary and Mobile

How does the MEAN WELL NTN-5K series ensure flexible and reliable UPS?

With the NTN-5K series, MEAN WELL has developed a reliable, high-performance DC/AC inverter with UPS functionality, which can also be configured as a single-phase or three-phase uninterruptible power supply (UPS) based on a four-wire configuration (3Ø4W, Y-connection). The NTN-5K series combines an off-grid 5000-watt pure sine wave inverter with an integrated AC charger and AC bypass function. It is specifically designed for industrial, commercial, and mobile applications that require high grid stability and an uninterruptible power supply.

The inverter's nominal DC input voltage range is 24 V, 48 V, or 380 V—covering the most common battery voltages used in industrial environments. The AC output voltage is selectable between 200 V, 220 V, 230 V, or 240 V AC, allowing the UPS to be flexibly adapted to regional requirements and the systems it needs to power. U.S. versions offer output voltages of 100 V, 110 V, 115 V, or 120 V. The inverter operates bidirectionally. In UPS mode, the AC supply is maintained via DC/AC conversion from the connected batteries. When the low-voltage grid is stable, the integrated 4.25 kW battery charger recharges the batteries, while the connected AC load is supplied via the AC bypass function. In combination with a suitable battery—and the optional integration of PV modules and MPPT charge controllers—the NTN-5K provides a highly flexible power solution for residential, commercial, and mobile applications.

In single-phase operation, one NTN-5K supplies single-phase loads via the passthrough grid power (bypass function) or, in UPS mode, from the connected batteries, delivering a stable output voltage across L and N. For applications requiring higher power or a three-phase infrastructure, three NTN-5K units can be combined into a three-phase four-wire configuration (3Ø4W). This setup allows for the connection of three-phase loads (L1/L2/L3/N; see Fig. 2) or the distribution of single-phase loads across different phases for better load balancing.

The specific design of the NTN-5K series enables reliable and flexible power supply in demanding environments – offering the following advantages:

• Multifunctional all-in-one power solution (DC/AC inverter, AC/DC charger, AC bypass, UPS)
• Reliable power supply: Delivers stable power even under fluctuating or unstable grid conditions
• High fail-safety: Ideal for critical applications where voltage quality and uninterrupted operation are essential
• Data security: Minimizes data loss and protects against operational downtime
• Versatility: Suitable for both stationary and mobile scenarios – from building installations to mobile power solutions
• Compact three-phase technology: The four-wire architecture is space-efficient and suitable for integration into existing infrastructures
• Parallel operation of up to six units (30 kW total output)
• MODBus-RTU (RS-485) interface

Where and how is the MEAN WELL NTN-5K series most effectively used?

MEAN WELL’s NTN-5K inverters are not only ideal for classic stationary inverter or UPS applications such as in industrial plants, data centers, or medical equipment, but they truly shine in mobile and off-grid scenarios. These include service vehicles, construction sites, boats, container solutions, or remote regions without stable grid access. Thanks to their compact design, flexible configuration options, and off-grid capability, these devices ensure reliable power wherever conventional solutions fall short.

A valuable addition to the series is the CMU2 controller, designed for use in energy-efficient hybrid power systems, particularly in combination with PV installations. This allows surplus solar energy to be stored and either fed back into the grid or consumed directly when needed. This makes the NTN-5K series a key component of modern, sustainable energy systems.

Application examples: