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This buying guide explains:

  • What a PDU is
  • Top considerations for selecting the right PDU for your needs
  • How to ensure your PDU's physical and cyber security
  • The different types of rack PDUs

      

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1. What is a rack mount PDU?

Rack mount PDUs effectively distribute power to racks where multiple outlets are necessary. Beyond the capabilities of a power strip, a rack PDU offers a range of intelligent features to help control the power distributed to IT devices. Rack PDUs are used in 120V, 200-240V and other environments of all sizes and come in a variety of plug and outlet configurations. Whether it’s the only distribution unit or part of a whole distribution strategy, PDUs are a vital connection point and allow you to protect your entire IT investment.

2. How to select your rackmount PDU form factor?

Determine the form factor or the combination of form factors that work best for your environment. Having empty rack space can lend itself to more of a 1U or 2U deployment. However, if your rack enclosures are packed, you can go the more traditional route with 0U vertical rackmount PDUs in the back. ​
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1U horizontal rack PDU

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2U horizontal rack PDU

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0U vertical rack PDU

2. How to select your rack PDU technology?

Whether it’s a metered PDU or a managed PDU (otherwise known as a switched PDU), you’ll need to determine what level of control your infrastructure power requires. Metered input PDUs offer branch-level metering, while metered outlet PDUs provide metering at individual outlets for billing-grade accuracy. For the most advanced capabilities, choose managed PDU technology that provides outlet-level switching (i.e. you can turn an individual outlet off and on remotely) and outlet-level monitoring, both of which help reinforce uptime for critical loads.

Look for models that include network connectivity, push button controls and a display screen. 

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3. How to select your rackmount PDU input cord?

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Having enough electrical power to adequately supply your data center deployment is a big deal. When selecting an input cord and plug, research the amount of power it provides to the rack PDU along with the total power consumption of your IT equipment.

Don't forget to plan for growth and expansion. If you think your data center will grow, be sure that you’re considering power distribution to avoid designing yourself into a corner. ​

4. Selecting your rackmount PDU outlets?

The type of outlets and overall quantity you select are important. More than making sure all your plugs have the right receptacle, having the proper balance of C13 (15 amps) and the higher power C19 (20 amps) outlet types ensures that there is enough power for all your connected devices. Newer PDU models may feature hybrid outlets that accommodate more than one type of plug. Consider combo outlets for more variable rack configurations.
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Introducing Eaton's C39 outlet

Eaton has created the new C39 outlet to account for your changing power distribution needs. Able to accommodate a C14 or a C20 plug, this new PDU receptacle means you don't have to change your rack PDU every time your connected equipment changes.

5. Considering the rack PDU operating temperature

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Depending on the temperature of your data center, having a rack PDU with a high operating temperature capability can keep your PDUs and connected devices operating at full functionality. PDUs with higher operating temperatures—such as those rated for 140°F (60°C)—also reduce cooling costs. 

6. Security considerations for a rack mount PDU

Physical security 

Avoiding accidental disruptions and keeping unauthorized users out are keys to maintaining a safe data center environment. Look for rackmount PDUs that enable you to turn off unused outlets with outlet switching technology to control unauthorized use. Also, take advantage of integrated IEC outlet grips to prevent accidental disconnects that are typically caused by human error or over time by vibrating equipment.

Cyber security and monitoring 

How will you manage your rack PDUs remotely, with multiple rows of equipment and/or multiple sites? Software solutions like Eaton's Distributed IT Performance Management software (DITPM), part of the Brightlayer Data Centers suite, provide deep intelligence into your network connected PDUs, enabling you to remotely manage and control your equipment, and identify and fix issues before your equipment goes down.

7. Types of rack mount PDUs

Basic PDU

A basic rack PDU provides reliable AC power distribution to multiple devices from a UPS system, generator or utility power source.

Local metered PDU 

Local metered PDUs have digital load ammeters to enable local current monitoring, helping IT managers balance loads and prevent overloads. Select models also include premium Isobar® surge protection.

Monitored PDU

Monitored PDUs include the features of local metered PDUs, plus a network interface to support remote monitoring and control from virtually any location.

Switched PDU

Switched PDUs Include all monitored PDU features, plus local or remote control of individual outlets. A switched PDU helps the IT administrator eliminate costly site visits with the ability to remotely reboot malfunctioning devices and turn power off and on to each outlet.

Automatic transfer switch

An ATS (Auto transfer switch) PDU provides a redundant power option for single-corded network devices. If the primary source becomes unstable or fails, the ATS switches over to the secondary power source until the primary input is restored.

Hot-swappable PDU

Hot-swap PDUs include dual AC inputs and a manual transfer switch that allows maintenance, repair or replacement of compatible UPS systems without interrupting power to connected equipment.

Network switch/PDU combo units

Network switch/PDU combo units combine a managed or unmanaged gigabit ethernet switch with a network-grade PDU. The switch/PDU uses just 1U of rack space and is perfect for distributed networks where space is at a premium. Select models include Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities.

If you work in a data center, you’re probably already aware that power distribution units (PDUs) are more than just power strips. With rack PDUs numbering in the hundreds or even thousands, having the right PDU can be critical for managing your data center effectively. Let’s take a look at some key considerations when purchasing a rackmount PDU for your data center.