What are the Types of Server Room Power Distribution Units?

Kaushal Kumar
3 min readNov 17, 2023

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To maintain stable and dependable power distribution in data centers and guarantee the uninterrupted functioning of mission-critical equipment, Power Distribution Units (PDUs) are essential. Beyond the capabilities of a power strip, a PDU is a complex device that can automatically manage and distribute electricity to numerous servers or IT equipment. PDUs are a crucial component of the infrastructure of data centers; they assist in balancing power loads and come in various kinds to meet different needs.

Knowledge of Power Distribution Units (PDUs):

PDUs are essential for data centers since they control and distribute electricity to IT equipment. Frequently mounted on racks, these cutting-edge gadgets can handle power demands far higher than traditional power strips. PDUs monitor power efficiency and uptime while ensuring an organization’s IT infrastructure is adequately powered.

To choose the ideal PDU power distribution unit for your data center requirements, it is crucial to comprehend the several types of PDUs that are accessible since the global PDU market is predicted to reach $1.6 billion by 2028. Elcom International, the leading electronic components manufacturers offers the best power distribution unit.

Basic

A basic PDU is an entry-level option for providing dependable power to vital IT equipment housed in a rack or cabinet. Basic PDUs, like regular power strips, are affordable for tiny server rooms with on-site IT personnel. These devices might have locking outlets to avoid unintentional disconnections and the possibility of adding smart features later on. Basic PDUs do not, however, provide remote management or monitoring capabilities.

Metered

The metered PDU is an improvement over the standard PDU. In addition to offering the same functionality as the standard PDU, this has the benefit of displaying data on local power use. You can see this on your local display to see how much power your equipment uses. Data on power factor, voltage, current, and other topics will be visible to you. This will assist your personnel in determining when upgrades are required and assess your present demands.

Monitored

Besides remote monitoring across the network, monitored PDUs will offer the same functionalities as metered PDUs. This provides real-time, remote access to power usage stats for your PDU, down to the individual outlet, for authorized users. This helps you know precisely how much power you’re using and for getting warnings when thresholds are crossed automatically.

Switched

A switched PDU is an advanced solution with the most sophisticated data center power control intelligence. Switched PDUs offer monitoring capabilities in addition to the ability for authorized staff to manage specific outlets remotely. They can reboot inoperable devices or turn equipment on or off through an easy-to-use web interface.

By controlling power consumption at the outlet level, these devices guard against overloads and guarantee the best possible power availability and efficiency. Switched PDUs offer unmatched control over data center power management, making them appropriate for large-scale and remote locations without on-site IT personnel.

You can ensure optimal performance and longevity of Power Distribution Units by understanding your specific needs, carefully considering the above mentioned factors, and following best practices for installation and maintenance.

Server room power distribution units (PDUs) are crucial for data centers as they distribute electricity to IT equipment. There are different types of PDUs: basic PDUs provide reliable power, metered PDUs display local power usage data, monitored PDUs offer remote monitoring capabilities, and switched PDUs provide advanced power control intelligence for large-scale data centers. Choosing the right PDU is essential for managing power efficiently and ensuring uninterrupted operations in the data center.

Power Distribution Units from Elcom ensure reliable and safe operations in numerous industries by efficiently distributing electrical power to multiple devices. Elcom PDUs are perfect for power management due to their many options and superior functionality.

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