5 Features to Look for in a PDU System
What is a PDU System?
A PDU, or Power Distribution Unit, is a type of equipment that controls and distributes power to computers, servers, and networking devices within an IT environment.
To the untrained eye, some of these configurations appear to be the same as the run-of-the-mill power strips that one could find in their local computer big-box store. However, while they have some similarities to these surge protectors, power extenders, etc., our PDUs are vastly different in terms of reliability and overall functionality.
Our Power Distribution Units are ideal for data centers, industrial environments, network closets, VoIP phone systems, and small IT environments, to name a few. PDUs are extremely useful because in addition to protecting and distributing power, they also detect abnormalities, reduce operating costs, increase reliability, and minimize downtime.
What Type of PDU is Best for My Facility?
A variety of PDU configurations and features are available at your fingertips; it all depends on your facility’s unique circumstances.
The first step is to carefully examine the needs of your IT environment. Our PDU Buyer’s Guide offers step-by-step instructions, walking you through every aspect of the selection process.
What Are Five of the Key Features Available in a Power Distribution Unit?
Our PDUs offer a variety of features, each offering more ways to help your facility scale and manage its power needs. Here are our top five PDU features:
1. Environmental Monitoring
Monitor environmental conditions within the cabinet to ensure optimal operating conditions. A variety of sensors are available including temperature, humidity, airflow, door position, liquid detection, and more.
This feature will help you protect critical IT infrastructure by strategically monitoring data center, server room, and network closet environments.
2. Hot Swappable
Easily update your PDU’s monitoring capabilities to adapt to latest technologies and changing business needs. As your facility grows and changes, your PDU system will change and grow right along with it.
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.
3. Optimized Cable Management
Mismanaged cables lead to workplace hazards and overall inefficiencies. Here are a few options for cable management in your PDU:
- U-Lock Outlets: Secure power cords and avoid accidental disconnections. Receptacles are color-coded by circuit for instant identification.
- Daisy Chain Capabilities: Daisy chain up to 50 devices on a single IP address. Reduce deployment time with self-configuration of downstream devices.
4. Remote Connectivity
Access your PDU remotely via the network interface or serial connection to monitor power consumption and configure user-defined alert notifications. Prevent downtime and increase efficiencies all at the touch of a button!
5. Outlet Control
Address unresponsive equipment or increase runtime of critical equipment upon power failure with outlet-level control.
With this feature, your PDU will monitor electrical and environmental parameters with set threshold and alarm tools while allowing you to predict failing conditions before they occur and proactively manage connected equipment for maximum uptime.
As an added bonus, this PDU design is often the most budget-friendly, ensuring lower costs for your data center without compromising on increasing efficiencies.
Learn More About Your PDU Options!
These are just a few of the features available on our PDUs. To learn more about our products and how they can benefit your facility, please contact us today or check out our PDU Buyer’s Guide to find the PDU that is the perfect fit for your power distribution needs!