PDU Buying Guide
What is a PDU?
A PDU, or power distribution unit, is a device with multiple outlets. It is designed to be installed in a standard rack, where its main function is to distribute reliable network power from utility power source or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to multiple devices. Besides basic power functionalities, some advanced PDU models also allow users to perform advanced power monitoring.
Utility
UPS
PDU
Server
Why Do I Need a PDU?
As a company grows, the demand for more power and IT equipment will continue to rise. It is essential to find a power solution that can provide more electrical outlets catering to the increasing power needs.
The power usage effectiveness (PUE) metric has become an important measurement standard for reporting energy performance of data centers. An advanced PDU can provide accurate power measurement data and precise individual outlet metering that can help in the measuring of energy efficiency in data centers.
5 Things to Consider When Choosing the PDU
1. What type of a PDU do I need?
The series listed below are the common categories of PDU on the market, with their functions ranging from basic power distribution to advanced power monitoring and management. Be sure to identify your application before selecting the suitable model.
Power Distribution
Local Monitoring
Remote Monitoring(Unit-level)
Remote Monitoring(Outlet-level)
Remote Management(Outlet-level)
Power Redundancy
2. How to estimate the PDU power capacity?
A PDU can be selected to distribute output power from a UPS, utility power or a generator to support all connected devices. Thus, it is important to figure out the power consumption of the devices.
Generally, the power of PDU is rated in amperage. If the power information of connected device is given in watts instead of amps, simply divided the watts by voltage to get an amps figure. Then, add up the total amperage of all your equipment, and choose a PDU with maximum input current higher than the power demand to avoid overloading.
3. What kind of input connector does the PDU need?
The input connector types may vary according to different regions, input voltage and current requirements. Choose the correct input connector based on your needs in order to utilize the PDU.
4. What kind of outlets shall the PDU have?
Make sure to select the PDU models with suitable output receptacles for the connected devices. Additionally, it is recommended the number of PDU’s outlets exceeds the number of plugs you need for further expansion.
5. Where to install the PDU?
The PDU can be mounted either horizontally or vertically. Below are the available installation types:
- 0U Vertical Rackmount
- 1U Vertical Rackmount
- 1U Horizontal Rackmount
- 2U Horizontal Rackmount
Consider the size of rack and the location to install the PDU when deciding on the form factors.
CyberPower PDU Key Features
Work under High Temperature
PDU is typically mounted at the rear of a rack in the data center, which can experience extreme temperature, so it is important to select the device that can withstand harsh environments. CyberPower PDU can work under temperature as high as 45-60°C, ensuring normal operation for connected equipment.
- Basic
- Metered
- Monitored
- Switched
- Metered-by-Outlet
- Switched Metered-by-Outlet
±1% Measurement Accuracy
Generally, an accuracy of ±5% or less is considered to be acceptable for data center applications. Our advanced PDU provides trustworthy statistics, including values on voltages, currents or watts with ±1% measurement accuracy, allowing you to better calculate PUE (Power Usage Effectiveness) metrics to manage efficiency and performance within data centers.
- Basic
- Metered
- Monitored
- Switched
- Metered-by-Outlet
- Switched Metered-by-Outlet
Ultra-low Power Consumption
Reducing energy usage means decreasing the electricity costs. The PDU comes with ultra-low power consumption design, with typical power consumption of 4.5W, saving more than 80% of energy as compared to its competitors.
- Basic
- Metered
- Monitored
- Switched
- Metered-by-Outlet
- Switched Metered-by-Outlet
User Configurable Color LCD
Equipped with color LCD that can be configured by users, the product allows you to change the colors of the LCD screens, enabling convenient classification and identification of PDUs in data center application.
- Basic
- Metered
- Monitored
- Switched
- Metered-by-Outlet
- Switched Metered-by-Outlet
Rotatable LCD Design
For proper viewing orientation, the product comes with automatic screen rotation, whether it is mounted vertically or horizontally in the rack.
- Basic
- Metered
- Monitored
- Switched
- Metered-by-Outlet
- Switched Metered-by-Outlet
Hot-swappable LCD Design
To ensure easy maintenance without power interruption, the LCD is designed to be hot-swappable, which allows you to safely remove and replace LCD panel without having to shut down the system.
- Basic
- Metered
- Monitored
- Switched
- Metered-by-Outlet
- Switched Metered-by-Outlet
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Find the serial number on your CyberPower products
Every CyberPower product has a unique serial number (S/N) and they can only be 12 or 16 digits.
The location of the serial number label may vary by different products, but you can find it on the back or bottom side of most products.
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