When outfitting a startup IT closet, selecting the right rackmount UPS is essential to keep your equipment running smoothly during outages. The best options balance power capacity, reliability, and ease of use, but tradeoffs often exist between cost, size, and features. The CyberPower OR500LCDRM1U stands out as the best overall for its balance of affordability and performance. For higher capacity needs, the CyberPower CP2000PFCRM2U offers robust power with a compact footprint, while the Tripp Lite SMART1500LCDXL provides expandability for growing setups. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these and other top choices to find the best fit for your startup’s IT needs.
Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked UPS combine reliable power capacity with manageable form factors suitable for small IT closets.
- Expandability and scalability are key considerations for startups planning growth, making models like the Tripp Lite SMART1500LCDXL appealing.
- Pure sine wave output is increasingly important for sensitive equipment, though it often comes at a higher price.
- User interface features such as LCD screens assist in quick diagnostics, improving maintenance efficiency.
- Price remains a significant factor, with many cost-effective options offering impressive performance for startups on a budget.
More Details on Our Top Picks
CyberPower OR500LCDRM1U Smart App LCD UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector, 500VA/300W, 6 Outlets, AVR, 1U Rackmount, UL Certified
This compact 500VA/300W UPS offers reliable power protection for small IT setups in startup environments. Unlike larger models like the Tripp Lite SMART1500LCDXL, it provides fewer outlets and a lower capacity, which makes it ideal for minimal equipment. Its multifunction LCD panel gives clear status updates, and the AVR feature helps reduce wear on the battery by smoothing minor fluctuations. However, with only six outlets—two of which are surge-only—it may fall short for startups planning to expand. Compared to online double-conversion models, this line-interactive design is less resilient during long outages or severe power fluctuations. Its 3-year warranty and UL certification add confidence, but the limited capacity means it’s best suited for small, non-critical systems.
Pros:- Compact 1U rackmount design saves space in tight IT closets
- Multifunction LCD provides real-time runtime and status info
- Automatic Voltage Regulation extends battery life and reduces wear
Cons:- Limited capacity at 300W, unsuitable for larger equipment or future expansion
- Only six outlets, with two surge-only, limiting device connections
- No included remote management or external battery expansion options
Best for: Startups with minimal networking and server equipment needing basic surge and power backup protection.
Not ideal for: Growing IT closets with multiple servers or high power demands, where capacity and outlet count are insufficient.
- VA/Watts:500VA/300W
- Outlets:6
- Form Factor:1U Rackmount
- Warranty:3 years
- Surge Protection:Yes
- Automatic Voltage Regulation:Yes
Bottom line: This UPS is ideal for small startup setups needing basic power protection without the complexity or cost of larger or online models.
Tripp Lite SMART1500LCDXL 1500VA Rack Mount UPS Battery Backup with Expandable Run Time Option, 900W, 8 Outlets, Short Depth, 2U Rackmount UPS, AVR, LCD Screen
The 1500VA/900W Tripp Lite SMART1500LCDXL balances capacity and expandability, making it suitable for startups with growing IT needs. Unlike the CyberPower OR500LCDRM1U, its higher wattage and eight outlets provide more flexibility for multiple devices. Its LCD screen offers detailed info on load, runtime, and status, while the optional external battery pack can extend runtime significantly—up to 30 minutes at half load. The short-depth 2U rackmount fits well into compact racks, but with a 3-year warranty and no included remote management, it’s more of a straightforward solution than a high-end management platform. Compared to online models, its line-interactive topology offers fast transfer times but less resilience during long outages or generator use.
Pros:- Expandable runtime with external battery pack option
- Large LCD screen for detailed status monitoring
- Automatic Voltage Regulation for power conditioning
Cons:- No built-in remote management capability
- Line-interactive design offers less protection during long outages compared to online UPS
- Shorter runtime at full load (about 12 minutes) without external battery
Best for: Startups with moderate power loads, planning to add equipment soon, seeking reliable, expandable backup power.
Not ideal for: Very high-capacity or mission-critical environments where online double-conversion UPS is necessary for continuous power and clean sine wave output.
- VA/Watts:1500VA/900W
- Outlets:8
- Form Factor:2U Rackmount
- Runtime:12 minutes at full load
- Surge Protection:Yes
- External Battery Support:Yes
Bottom line: Ideal for mid-sized startups needing reliable, expandable backup with clear monitoring, but not suited for mission-critical, long-duration outages.
CyberPower CP500PFCRM1U PFC Sinewave UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector, 500VA/300W, 6 Outlets, AVR, 1U Rackmount, UL Certified
The CyberPower CP500PFCRM1U is a straightforward, line-interactive UPS designed for small office or startup environments. It offers sine wave output compatible with active PFC power supplies, unlike cheaper modified sine wave options, providing cleaner power for sensitive equipment. Its six outlets and 3-year warranty make it suitable for minimal setups, but it’s less capable than larger models like the CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD when it comes to supporting multiple devices or higher loads. Its LCD panel indicates runtime and alerts, but the capacity is limited to 300W, making it unsuitable for expanding equipment. It lacks remote management, so it’s best for small, non-critical systems where simplicity is valued over advanced features.
Pros:- Supports active PFC power supplies with sine wave output
- Compact 1U rackmount fits tight spaces
- 3-year warranty with UL safety certification
Cons:- Limited to 300W capacity, restricting future expansion
- No remote management or external battery expansion
- Only 6 outlets, with no surge-only options
Best for: Small startups with limited equipment needing reliable surge and power backup with sine wave quality.
Not ideal for: Growing offices or setups requiring more outlets, higher capacity, or remote management features.
- VA/Watts:500VA/300W
- Outlets:6
- Form Factor:1U Rackmount
- Warranty:3 years
- Sine Wave Output:Yes
- Surge Protection:Yes
Bottom line: A solid choice for small, non-critical setups that need clean power in a space-efficient rackmount form.
CyberPower CP2000PFCRM2U PFC Sinewave UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector, 2000VA/1200W, 8 Outlets, AVR, Short Depth 2U Rackmount, UL Certified
The CyberPower CP2000PFCRM2U is a high-capacity, line-interactive UPS designed for demanding IT environments. With 2000VA/1200W power and eight outlets, it supports multiple servers, networking gear, and A/V equipment in a compact 2U rackmount. Its sine wave output ensures clean power for sensitive equipment, and the LCD display provides detailed stats on load, runtime, and conditions. Compared to smaller models like the CyberPower OR500LCDRM1U, it offers significantly more capacity and expansion potential, making it ideal for growing or mission-critical setups. Nevertheless, its size and weight (around 60 pounds) require sturdy mounting and space planning, and its higher cost reflects its advanced features. Its 3-year warranty and UL certification make it a reliable choice for essential infrastructure.
Pros:- Supports up to 2000VA/1200W load capacity
- Supports multiple devices with 8 outlets
- Pure sine wave output for sensitive equipment
Cons:- Heavier and larger (about 60 pounds), requiring sturdy rack support
- More expensive than smaller models, reflecting its capacity
- Limited onboard monitoring features without external management card
Best for: Mid-sized startups with high power needs and critical equipment that cannot tolerate power interruptions.
Not ideal for: Very small or budget-conscious startups with minimal equipment, where a lower-capacity UPS suffices.
- VA/Watts:2000VA/1200W
- Outlets:8
- Form Factor:2U Rackmount
- Runtime:Approximately 4 minutes at full load
- Sine Wave Output:Yes
- Surge Protection:Yes
Bottom line: This UPS is ideal for high-demand environments where reliability and capacity are critical, but it demands space and investment.
CyberPower OR2200PFCRT2U PFC Sinewave UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector, 2000VA/1540W, 8 Outlets, AVR, 2U Rack/Tower, UL Certified
The CyberPower OR2200PFCRT2U offers robust power protection for large-scale startup environments or critical systems needing continuous uptime. Its 2000VA/1540W capacity and eight outlets support multiple servers, networking gear, and telecom equipment. Unlike the Tripp Lite SMART1500LCDXL, this model provides additional wattage and outlets, suitable for more extensive setups. Its dual form options (rack/tower) and detailed LCD display make it flexible and user-friendly, while the sinewave output ensures clean power during outages. The line-interactive topology with AVR helps manage brownouts and surges effectively. However, at roughly 60 pounds, it requires proper mounting, and its cost is higher, reflecting its enterprise readiness. It’s an excellent choice where maximum uptime and capacity are priorities.
Pros:- High capacity supporting extensive equipment load
- Supports both rack and tower configurations
- Clear LCD status display and detailed info
Cons:- Heavy (around 60 pounds), requiring sturdy mounting solutions
- Higher price point, suitable for enterprise use
- Limited remote management features without external cards
Best for: Large startups or critical infrastructure that demands continuous, clean power and high capacity.
Not ideal for: Small offices or startups with minimal equipment, where a smaller or less expensive UPS is sufficient.
- VA/Watts:2000VA/1540W
- Outlets:8
- Form Factor:2U Rack/Tower
- Runtime:Approximately 4 minutes at full load
- Sine Wave Output:Yes
- Surge Protection:Yes
Bottom line: Best suited for large, mission-critical setups requiring maximum uptime and capacity, albeit with higher space and cost considerations.
CyberPower CP1500PFCRM2U PFC Sinewave UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector, 1500VA/1000W, 8 Outlets, AVR, Short Depth 2U Rackmount, UL Certified
This model stands out for its compact short-depth 2U rackmount design, making it ideal for tight IT closets where space is limited. Compared with the CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD3, it offers a slightly smaller footprint and supports active PFC power supplies with true sine wave output, which is crucial for sensitive equipment like high-end workstations. The automatic voltage regulation reduces wear on batteries and connected gear, while the large LCD provides real-time insights into power and battery status. However, its shorter runtime of around 3 minutes at high loads is a tradeoff if longer backup is needed. It’s best suited for busy startup IT closets with high power demands in limited space, but may not be ideal for those needing extended runtime or detailed network management. Pros: compact short-depth design, sine wave compatibility, detailed LCD, robust warranty. Cons: limited runtime at full load, no network management card included, slightly higher cost. Verdict: This UPS is perfect for startups with space constraints that require reliable, space-efficient power conditioning for demanding equipment.- Voltage:120 Volts
- Maximum Power:1000 Watts
- Form Factor:Rackmount 2U
- Outlets:8
- Runtime:Approx. 3 minutes at full load
- Automatic Voltage Regulation:Yes
- Warranty:3 years
Eaton 5P 1550VA 1100 Watt 1U Rackmount/Wallmount 208V/220V/230V/240V Line-Interactive True Sine Wave Uninterruptible Power Supply Server 5P1550GR
The 1U rackmount/Wallmount design makes this unit suitable for tight server rooms or small data closets, and its enterprise-grade features like advanced battery management and energy-efficient design justify its higher price point. Compared with the CyberPower CP1500PFCRM2U, it offers a slightly larger capacity and is UL UL-listed for safety, but the lack of included installation kit and power cord means additional accessories are necessary. Its graphical LCD provides clear status updates, and the switchable voltage settings (220-240V, 208V) accommodate various regional requirements. It’s better suited for small data centers or branch offices needing robust, space-efficient backup, but less ideal if you require network management features or longer runtime. Pros: space-saving 1U design, enterprise-grade safety, flexible voltage settings, advanced battery management. Cons: no included accessories, limited runtime, higher cost for capacity. Verdict: This UPS is ideal for small enterprise or branch setups prioritizing space efficiency and reliable sine wave power, though it requires additional accessories.- Voltage:208V/220V/230V/240V
- Maximum Power:1100 Watts
- Form Factor:1U Rackmount/Wallmount
- Outlets:6
- Runtime:Approx. 3-5 minutes at full load
- Automatic Voltage Regulation:Yes
- Warranty:2-3 years
CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD PFC Sinewave UPS Battery Backup and Surge Protector, 1500VA/1000W, 12 Outlets, AVR, Mini Tower, UL Certified
The mini tower form factor with 12 outlets makes this model well-suited for protecting multiple devices like gaming setups, small offices, or multimedia centers. It supports active PFC power supplies with true sine wave output, akin to the CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD3, but offers more outlets and a robust 3-year warranty. Its LCD panel provides detailed power and battery info, and the automatic voltage regulation helps extend battery life during power fluctuations. The main tradeoff is its shorter runtime of approximately 3 minutes at high load, which limits its suitability for prolonged outages. This unit makes sense for users needing high outlet capacity in a home or small office, but it’s less ideal if longer backup duration is required. Pros: 12 outlets, sine wave support, detailed LCD, solid warranty. Cons: limited runtime, no network management, larger size than compact models. Verdict: Best for power-hungry home or small office setups that need a high number of outlets and reliable power conditioning.- Voltage:120 Volts
- Maximum Power:1000 Watts
- Outlets:12
- Form Factor:Mini Tower
- Runtime:Approx. 3 minutes at full load
- Automatic Voltage Regulation:Yes
- Warranty:3 years
CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD3 Intelligent LCD UPS System, 1500VA/900W, 12 Outlets, 2 USB Ports, AVR, Mini Tower, Black
This mini tower UPS with 12 outlets and USB ports is ideal for protecting workstations, network gear, and home entertainment in space-limited environments. Its simulated sine wave output and automatic voltage regulation extend battery life and provide cleaner power, similar to the CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD. The color LCD offers comprehensive real-time monitoring, and the 3-year warranty covers both the unit and batteries, giving peace of mind. The main limitation is its short runtime of about 3 minutes at full load, which makes it less suitable for critical systems requiring longer outages. It’s better suited for smaller setups with frequent power fluctuations needing reliable surge protection and conditioning, but not for extended backup needs. Pros: ample outlets, LCD display, sine wave support, battery warranty. Cons: limited runtime, simulated sine wave instead of pure, no network management card. Verdict: An excellent choice for small offices or home setups needing reliable power conditioning with multiple outlets.- Voltage:120 Volts
- Maximum Power:900 Watts
- Outlets:12
- Form Factor:Mini Tower
- Runtime:Approx. 3 minutes at full load
- Automatic Voltage Regulation:Yes
- Warranty:3 years
CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD3 Intelligent LCD UPS System, 1500VA/900W, 12 Outlets, 2 USB Ports, AVR, Mini Tower, Black
This mini tower UPS with 12 outlets and USB ports is ideal for protecting workstations, network gear, and home entertainment in space-limited environments. Its simulated sine wave output and automatic voltage regulation extend battery life and provide cleaner power, similar to the CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD. The color LCD offers comprehensive real-time monitoring, and the 3-year warranty covers both the unit and batteries, giving peace of mind. The main limitation is its short runtime of about 3 minutes at full load, which makes it less suitable for critical systems requiring longer outages. It’s better suited for smaller setups with frequent power fluctuations needing reliable surge protection and conditioning, but not for extended backup needs. Pros: ample outlets, LCD display, sine wave support, battery warranty. Cons: limited runtime, simulated sine wave instead of pure, no network management card. Verdict: An excellent choice for small offices or home setups needing reliable power conditioning with multiple outlets.- Voltage:120 Volts
- Maximum Power:900 Watts
- Outlets:12
- Form Factor:Mini Tower
- Runtime:Approx. 3 minutes at full load
- Automatic Voltage Regulation:Yes
- Warranty:3 years
CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD3 Intelligent LCD UPS System, 1500VA/900W, 12 Outlets, 2 USB Ports, AVR, Mini Tower, Black
This mini tower UPS with 12 outlets and USB ports is ideal for protecting workstations, network gear, and home entertainment in space-limited environments. Its simulated sine wave output and automatic voltage regulation extend battery life and provide cleaner power, similar to the CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD. The color LCD offers comprehensive real-time monitoring, and the 3-year warranty covers both the unit and batteries, giving peace of mind. The main limitation is its short runtime of about 3 minutes at full load, which makes it less suitable for critical systems requiring longer outages. It’s better suited for smaller setups with frequent power fluctuations needing reliable surge protection and conditioning, but not for extended backup needs. Pros: ample outlets, LCD display, sine wave support, battery warranty. Cons: limited runtime, simulated sine wave instead of pure, no network management card. Verdict: An excellent choice for small offices or home setups needing reliable power conditioning with multiple outlets.- Voltage:120 Volts
- Maximum Power:900 Watts
- Outlets:12
- Form Factor:Mini Tower
- Runtime:Approx. 3 minutes at full load
- Automatic Voltage Regulation:Yes
- Warranty:3 years
Tripp Lite SMART1500LCD 1500VA Rack Mount UPS Battery Backup, 900W, 8 Outlets, PWM Sine Wave, Short Depth 2U Rackmount UPS, AVR, LCD Screen
This model stands out for its reliable 1500VA/900W capacity combined with versatile mounting options, making it ideal for small startup IT closets that need dependable power backup. Its automatic voltage regulation (AVR) corrects brownouts without draining the battery, which extends runtime during minor power fluctuations. Compared to the CyberPower OL1500RTXL2U, this Tripp Lite offers a more straightforward setup with a larger LCD display showing detailed operational info, though it doesn’t support expansion for extended runtimes. Its user-replaceable batteries allow for easier maintenance, but the internal design makes battery replacement somewhat tricky and time-consuming. Tradeoffs include the lack of optional battery expansion and a relatively short runtime of around 4 minutes at full load, which may be insufficient for longer outages. This pick makes the most sense for startups needing a robust, compact, rack-mountable UPS with good monitoring features and straightforward support.
Pros:- Reliable 1500VA/900W capacity suitable for critical equipment
- Versatile 2U rack or tower mounting options included
- Large LCD display for real-time operational monitoring
- User-replaceable internal batteries for easier maintenance
Cons:- Batteries can be tricky to replace and require careful handling
- Limited to approximately 4-minute runtime at full load, which may be insufficient for prolonged outages
Best for: startups with small to medium-sized server rooms or network closets needing reliable, rackmount power protection.
Not ideal for: residential users or setups requiring extended runtime or silent operation, as this unit is designed for data centers and noisy environments.
- Voltage:120 Volts
- Amperage:12
- Battery Charge Time:4.5 Hours
- Form Factor:Rack
- Maximum Power:900 Watts
- Number of Outlets:8
- Runtime:Approximately 4 minutes at full load
- Surge Protection Rating:480 Joules
- Enclosure Material:Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Bottom line: This UPS is ideal for small startup IT closets that need dependable, rack-mounted backup with straightforward monitoring and maintenance, but not for extended runtime or residential use.
CyberPower OL1500RTXL2U Smart App Online UPS System, 1500VA/1350W, 8 Outlets, 2U Rack/Tower
This model makes the most sense for startups with mission-critical equipment that demands seamless, online double-conversion power protection, providing a pure sine wave output that eliminates transfer time during outages. Its expandable runtime with optional BP36V60ART2U battery modules allows for longer backup periods, which is a key advantage over the Tripp Lite SMART1500LCD. The large multifunction LCD display offers detailed status updates from up to 10 feet away, and the Fast Charge Technology can restore 90% of battery capacity within 4 hours, ensuring quick readiness after outages. Compared to the Tripp Lite, this UPS is more energy-efficient thanks to its ECO Mode, but it comes at a higher price point, especially if multiple EBMs are added. Its 3-year warranty including batteries and a $400,000 connected equipment guarantee make it a safe choice for critical infrastructure, though the unit is somewhat heavier and bulkier. Tradeoffs include a higher initial investment and more complexity in setup for expansion. This makes sense for startups planning for growth and needing reliable, extendable backup power, but it might be overkill for small, non-critical setups.
Pros:- Pure sine wave output for seamless power transfer
- Expandable runtime with optional battery modules
- Advanced LCD display for detailed system monitoring
- Fast Charge Technology for quick battery restoration
Cons:- Higher initial cost, especially with multiple EBMs
- Heavier and larger than basic models, requiring more space and installation effort
- More complex setup required for expansion and configuration
Best for: startup environments with mission-critical servers or network devices requiring continuous, clean power and scalable backup capacity.
Not ideal for: residential or small office users with minimal backup needs, due to higher cost and complexity.
- Voltage:125 Volts
- Amperage:15
- Battery Charge Time:4 Hours
- Form Factor:Rack/Tower
- Maximum Power:1350 Watts
- Number of Outlets:8
- Runtime:Approximately 3 minutes at full load without EBMs
- Surge Protection Rating:1780 Joules
- Warranty:3 years including batteries
Bottom line: This UPS is tailored for startups needing reliable, online power with future expandability, but may be more than necessary for non-critical or small-scale applications.
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on their power capacity, form factor, build quality, ease of installation, and features like LCD diagnostics and expandability. We prioritized models that balance affordability with reliability, especially for startups that need dependable backup without overspending. The ranking reflects how well each unit meets typical startup needs—such as space constraints, future scalability, and maintenance simplicity—while also considering overall value. Units with robust warranties and UL certification were favored, ensuring safety and peace of mind for ongoing operations.Factors to Consider When Choosing Rackmount UPS For Startup IT Closet
Choosing the right rackmount UPS for a startup IT closet involves understanding several key factors that impact performance, scalability, and long-term value. Startups should carefully consider capacity to match current and future loads, as well as physical size to fit limited rack space. Features like sine wave output and LCD diagnostics can simplify maintenance and protect sensitive equipment. Budget constraints often drive decisions, but investing in a reliable UPS can prevent costly downtime. Balancing these factors ensures you select a device that supports growth and minimizes operational risks.Power Capacity and Scalability
Size your UPS to handle your current load, then add extra capacity for future growth. Overloading a UPS can cause shutdowns during outages, while under-sizing wastes investment. Models with expandable runtime or additional outlets provide flexibility as your setup evolves, making scalability a smart consideration for startups aiming to grow without immediate replacement.
Form Factor and Space Considerations
Rackmount units come in 1U or 2U sizes, with some offering short-depth options ideal for limited space. Ensure your chosen UPS fits comfortably within your rack and allows for proper airflow. Compact models can save valuable space but may offer less power, so balancing size and capacity is key for startup environments where every inch counts.
Waveform Type and Compatibility
Pure sine wave output provides cleaner power, protecting sensitive electronics like servers and switches. Many budget-friendly models use simulated sine wave, which might suffice for less critical equipment but risks issues with sensitive devices. Investing in sine wave models increases upfront cost but offers greater protection and compatibility with all hardware types.
Diagnostics and Usability Features
LCD screens and remote management options make monitoring and troubleshooting more straightforward, reducing downtime during maintenance. Easy-to-read diagnostics are especially valuable in a startup setting where quick responses to power issues can prevent larger operational disruptions. Consider units with intuitive interfaces to streamline ongoing management.
Budget and Total Cost of Ownership
While initial price is a key factor, consider long-term costs such as maintenance, warranty, and replacement parts. Cheaper models may save money upfront but could lack durability or features that extend lifespan. Conversely, investing in a higher-quality unit with better warranties can reduce total ownership costs and improve reliability over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a smaller UPS for my growing startup?
Using a smaller UPS might seem cost-effective initially, but it risks insufficient backup during outages as your equipment load increases. It’s better to select a model with some headroom—ideally, 20-30% over your current needs—to accommodate future growth without immediate upgrades. This approach reduces downtime and maintenance hassles, making it a smarter long-term investment.
Is sine wave output necessary for startup equipment?
Pure sine wave output is highly recommended for sensitive equipment like servers and networking gear, as it provides cleaner power and reduces the risk of hardware issues. Budget models with simulated sine wave may work for less critical applications but can cause noise, overheating, or damage over time. Investing in sine wave models ensures greater compatibility and peace of mind.
How important are LCD diagnostics on a rackmount UPS?
LCD diagnostics simplify monitoring and troubleshooting, especially in a busy startup environment. They provide real-time data on battery health, load levels, and power status, enabling quick responses to potential issues. Units without LCD screens may require remote management tools, which can be less immediate and sometimes more complex to interpret during emergencies.
Should I prioritize capacity or features like expandability?
Both are important, but for a startup, capacity ensures your critical equipment stays powered during outages, while expandability offers flexibility for future growth. If your current needs are modest, focus on a reliable, appropriately sized unit. As your setup grows, choosing an UPS with expansion options can save time and money by avoiding premature replacements.
What is the typical lifespan of a rackmount UPS in a startup setting?
Most rackmount UPS units last around 3 to 5 years, depending on usage and maintenance. Regular battery replacements and proper cooling can extend their lifespan. Investing in models with strong warranties and easy battery changeouts can help maintain reliability and reduce long-term costs, especially important for startup environments where uptime is critical.
