What Type of PDU Do I Need?

Available in a variety of configurations, PDUs are able to manage and control energy consumption in everything from small IT environments to a large, critical infrastructure.

What is a PDU, & Why is It Necessary?

A PDU stands for Power Distribution Unit. A PDU is a device meant for controlling electrical power in a data center. A PDU can help eliminate downtime, increase efficiency, and monitor power usage. There are many variations to PDUs depending on your business and power needs.

What Types of PDUs are There?

To find out which features will be the most valuable to you, consider the various types of rack PDUs.

• Basic

  Most people are familiar with the basic PDU. It’s a large power strip and is designed to provide standard electrical outlets for data center equipment. This type of PDU has no monitoring or remote capabilities.

• Metered

  A metered PDU distributes network-grade power and offers remote monitoring and control capabilities. This helps users optimize load levels and prevents overloads.

• Monitored

  A monitored PDU also distributes network-grade power and supports local management. Monitored PDUs have the capability to monitor power distribution with local and remote monitoring options. The monitoring capabilities help users prevent downtime due to overloads and other power events.

• Switched

  A switched PDU distributes network-grade power and allows the capability to toggle power on and off for individual outputs.

• Automatic

  An automatic PDU has the ability to further eliminate downtime by automatically switching to a secondary power source if the primary fails or requires maintenance.

• Hot-Swappable

  With a hot swap PDU, you can manage repairs or replacements without taking your network offline. The primary input plugs into an online UPS system, the second plugs directly into a wall outlet. A manual transfer switch allows the load to be shifted from the UPS to direct primary power. You can then power down the UPS and remove it for repair or replacement while connected critical equipment remains powered and operational.

How Should I Set Up My PDU?

Where and how you set up your PDU will depend on your IT environment and needs. Here are some things to consider when deciding how to set up your PDU.

• Location

  Your PDU location will depend on your needs. PDU models are available vertical or horizontal and can be mounted in a rack enclosure, on a wall, or under a shelf.

• Input Power Information

  Depending on your building type, you will either have single-phase or three-phase power. Single-phase power will alternate between negative and positive voltage. This means the wave has zero voltage when moved from positive to negative and back.

  Most household and office power distribution is single-phase. Three-phase eliminates the moments of zero voltage by offsetting three simultaneous waves. Three-phase power is common in commercial and industrial environments.

• Number of Outlets Needed

  The number of outlets you need will depend on the number of devices you need to connect. Keep in mind devices that have more than one plug, or devices that must be plugged into another, may change the number of outlets needed. Include devices such as lights or cooling fans and leave room for additional devices to be added in the future.

Need Help Selecting the Right PDU for Your Business?

Learn more about PDU systems and how to choose the right one for your organization with our PDU Buyer’s Guide.

Ready to get the most efficiency and power distribution from your PDU? Contact our office!