What is a Rack PDU?

A rack PDU is a power distribution device designed to fit into a server rack in either a vertical (0U) or horizontal (1U or more) position. Rack mount PDUs are offered in many sizes and configurations depending on voltage, current, number and type of connections, as well as remote access and monitoring functionality.

PDU Types and Which is Best for Your Application

Rack mountable PDUs are available in four conventional designs with an additional subset available for even more precise control. Read below to learn about the different PDU types.

• Basic
  • Provide power to the IT equipment without any advanced features such as metering, monitoring or remote access functionality
  • Known for their lower cost, wide availability, and ease of use
• Metered
  • Provide the data necessary to properly load and balance rack power circuits
  • The LED display lets administrators know how much headroom exists between current capacity and the maximum draw of the strip
    • Professionals are able to make informed decisions about equipment installation
• Smart/Monitored
  • Typically includes the feature sets of the metered products in a single unit but also has the ability to remotely (IP) monitor the state of the distribution unit
  • Access to these models is typically accomplished through dedicated remote access software that is included with the PDU, direct web interface, SNMP or serial (RS232) menu
• Switched
  • Typically includes the features of the Metered PDU as well as the ability to remotely control the on/off state and reboot capabilities of each outlet contained in the unit through a web interface or a serial (RS232) menu
  • Often used by the Admin Manager to “lock off” any number of outlets to prevent accidental connection of equipment that might overload the circuit
• Subset
  • Outlet Level Power Monitoring
    • Provides unprecedented reliable and granular visibility into power consumption, coupled with remote/network power and environmental monitoring
    • Use the built-in network interface to view power, temperature and humidity levels via Web browser, or SNMP-based and email alerts when conditions exceed defined thresholds
    • Provide power monitoring per an individual outlet/device
      • Power information per individual outlet/device includes current, voltage, power (kW), apparent power, crest factor, and power factor