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Assessing Power Distribution Units (PDUs) in Data Centers

Assessing Power Distribution Units (PDUs) in Data Centers: A Comprehensive Guide

Data centers are complex facilities that require precise power management to ensure high availability, reliability, and efficiency. One critical component of data center infrastructure is the Power Distribution Unit (PDU). PDUs play a vital role in distributing power from the main electrical supply to servers, network equipment, and other IT devices. However, selecting and installing an appropriate PDU can be daunting due to the numerous options available in the market. In this article, we will delve into the key considerations for assessing PDUs in data centers.

Types of Power Distribution Units (PDUs)

When evaluating PDUs for a data center, it is essential to understand the different types available:

Switched PDUs: These PDUs offer remote power control and monitoring capabilities, allowing administrators to manage power distribution from anywhere on the network. Switched PDUs typically consist of a central controller or management unit that communicates with individual PDU units.
Metered PDUs: Metered PDUs provide real-time energy consumption data for each outlet, enabling precise tracking and analysis of power usage. They often feature advanced monitoring capabilities, such as current measurement, voltage monitoring, and alarm notifications.
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) PDUs: ATS PDUs automatically switch between primary and secondary power sources in case of an outage or failure, ensuring seamless continuity of operations.

Key Features to Consider When Assessing PDUs

When evaluating a PDU for your data center, consider the following essential features:

Reliability and Durability: Choose a PDU from a reputable manufacturer with a proven track record of reliability and durability. Ensure that the PDU is built with high-quality components and designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
Power Capacity and Scalability: Select a PDU with sufficient power capacity to meet current needs, while also considering scalability for future expansion. Consider PDUs with modular designs that can be easily upgraded or expanded as required.
Safety Features: Ensure the PDU meets industry safety standards (e.g., UL 60950) and features built-in safety mechanisms such as arc fault detection, ground fault protection, and overcurrent protection.
Monitoring and Control Capabilities: Evaluate PDUs with advanced monitoring capabilities, including real-time energy consumption data, alarm notifications, and remote power control. Consider the ease of integration with existing data center management systems (DCMS) or building management systems (BMS).
Certifications and Compliance: Verify that the PDU meets relevant industry certifications and standards, such as LEED, Energy Star, and ISO 9001:2008.

Detailed Features of Switched PDUs

Switched PDUs offer numerous benefits, including:

  • Remote power control and monitoring

  • Advanced security features (e.g., user access control, role-based permissions)

  • Enhanced scalability through the use of modular designs

  • Real-time energy consumption data for improved power management

  • Alarm notifications and alerts for proactive maintenance


  • Some key considerations when selecting a switched PDU include:

  • Centralized or decentralized architecture

  • Type and number of outlets (e.g., IEC, NEMA, or DC)

  • Power rating and scalability options

  • Network connectivity protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, Modbus)

  • Integration with existing data center management systems


  • Detailed Features of Metered PDUs

    Metered PDUs offer advanced monitoring capabilities, including:

  • Real-time energy consumption data for each outlet

  • Advanced monitoring features (e.g., current measurement, voltage monitoring)

  • Alarm notifications and alerts for proactive maintenance

  • Support for multiple protocols (e.g., Modbus, BACnet)


  • Some key considerations when selecting a metered PDU include:

  • Type and number of outlets (e.g., IEC, NEMA, or DC)

  • Power rating and scalability options

  • Network connectivity protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, Modbus)

  • Integration with existing data center management systems


  • QA Section

    1. What is the primary function of a PDU in a data center?
    A PDU distributes power from the main electrical supply to servers, network equipment, and other IT devices.

    2. How do I select the right PDU for my data center?
    Consider factors such as reliability, durability, power capacity, safety features, monitoring capabilities, certifications, and compliance when selecting a PDU.

    3. What is the difference between a switched PDU and a metered PDU?
    A switched PDU offers remote power control and monitoring capabilities, while a metered PDU provides advanced monitoring capabilities, such as real-time energy consumption data for each outlet.

    4. How do I ensure the PDU meets industry safety standards?
    Verify that the PDU meets relevant industry certifications and standards (e.g., UL 60950) and features built-in safety mechanisms such as arc fault detection, ground fault protection, and overcurrent protection.

    5. What are some common network connectivity protocols used in PDUs?
    Common network connectivity protocols used in PDUs include TCP/IP, Modbus, and BACnet.

    6. How do I integrate a PDU with my existing data center management system (DCMS)?
    Consult the manufacturers documentation or contact their technical support to determine the necessary steps for integration.

    7. What is an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) PDU?
    An ATS PDU automatically switches between primary and secondary power sources in case of an outage or failure, ensuring seamless continuity of operations.

    8. How do I ensure the PDU meets my data centers scalability requirements?
    Consider PDUs with modular designs that can be easily upgraded or expanded as required.

    9. What are some benefits of using a PDU with advanced monitoring capabilities?
    PDUs with advanced monitoring capabilities enable precise tracking and analysis of power usage, proactive maintenance, and improved energy efficiency.

    10. How do I choose the right type of outlet for my PDU?
    Select outlets that match your data centers specific requirements (e.g., IEC, NEMA, or DC).

    11. What certifications should I look for in a PDU?
    Relevant industry certifications include LEED, Energy Star, and ISO 9001:2008.

    12. How do I ensure the PDU meets my data centers reliability and durability requirements?
    Choose a PDU from a reputable manufacturer with a proven track record of reliability and durability.

    13. What are some common safety features to look for in a PDU?
    Common safety features include arc fault detection, ground fault protection, and overcurrent protection.

    14. How do I select the right power rating for my PDU?
    Consider the current power requirements of your data center and choose a PDU with sufficient power capacity.

    15. What is the difference between a PDU and an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)?
    A PDU distributes power from the main electrical supply, while a UPS provides backup power in case of an outage or failure.

    By carefully evaluating these key considerations and features, you can ensure that your data centers PDUs meet the required standards for reliability, efficiency, and scalability.

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