United States
Q
What is a Power Distribution Unit (PDU)?
A
A Power Distribution Unit (PDU) is a device that distributes electrical power to multiple IT devices within server racks or cabinets, ensuring reliable and organized power management.
Q
What are the main types of PDUs?
A
The main PDU types include basic, metered, monitored and switched (intelligent) units, each offering different levels of power tracking, control and remote management.
Q
How does a PDU differ from an uninterruptible power supply (UPS)?
A
A UPS provides battery backup and voltage regulation during power outages, whereas a PDU strictly distributes live electrical power without built-in backup.
Q
What is a basic PDU?
A
A basic PDU offers straightforward power distribution without monitoring or remote control features, making it ideal for non-critical or entry-level applications.
Q
What is an intelligent or networked PDU?
A
An intelligent (networked) PDU provides real-time power monitoring, environmental sensing and remote outlet control via Ethernet or SNMP for proactive management.
Q
How do I select the right PDU capacity for my rack?
A
Calculate your total IT load in watts or amps, add a 20% safety margin for future growth, and choose a PDU rated at or above that combined capacity.
Q
What mounting options are available for PDUs?
A
PDUs can be mounted vertically (zero-U), horizontally (1U or 2U) or in custom orientations to fit various rack sizes and optimize cable management.
Q
Can PDUs provide remote power monitoring?
A
Yes, networked PDUs enable remote monitoring of voltage, current and power consumption per outlet through web interfaces, SNMP or RESTful APIs.
Q
How do switched PDUs improve data center uptime?
A
Switched PDUs allow remote power cycling of individual outlets, reducing downtime by rebooting hung or failed equipment without physical intervention.
Q
What safety features should I look for in a PDU?
A
Key safety features include overload protection, integrated circuit breakers, proper grounding and compliance with UL or IEC certifications.
Q
How do PDUs support energy efficiency?
A
Metered and monitored PDUs track real-time power usage, enabling load balancing and energy optimization to reduce waste and lower operating costs.
Q
How often should I perform maintenance on my PDU?
A
Perform visual inspections and firmware updates quarterly, test circuit breakers semi-annually, and replace components per manufacturer guidelines.
Q
What is load balancing in PDU management?
A
Load balancing distributes electrical demand evenly across PDU phases or outlets to prevent circuit overloads and maximize power availability.
Q
Can PDUs be integrated with data center infrastructure management (DCIM) software?
A
Yes, most intelligent PDUs support SNMP, Modbus or API integration with DCIM platforms for centralized monitoring and automated reporting.
Q
What warranty and support should I expect for PDUs?
A
Manufacturers typically offer warranties ranging from one to five years, plus technical support, advance replacement and firmware upgrades for reliability.
