How PDUs Are Improving our Energy Efficiency

IT managers are being asked to step into a new role…that of an energy monitor...and they are finding that PDUs (power distribution units) are an ideal solution for increasing the manageability and availability of their IT systems. Some IT administrators are only looking for basic features; some want more sophisticated options. But most of them rely on PDUs as cost-effective, reliable components of their network power distribution system.

Some of the key features of the PDUs and their benefits include:

• The ability to start up in a predetermined sequence, or wait a predetermined length of time, before powering up after a power outage - via remote interface - so as to avoid in-rush current and tripped circuit breakers;
• The ability to utilize the remote interface for user-defined load alarms and thresholds and to disable power to unused outlets;
• Prevention of inadvertent overloading by unauthorized personnel.

Some additional features of the PDUs include:

Switched PDUs, which feature two input power cords and an automatic switch that transfers between them, allows IT administrators to increase network availability by providing a backup source of power. This unit is perfect for devices that feature only one power cord and need the support that redundancy provides. When the primary input power source is normal, the PDU uses it to power connected equipment. A very-reliable mechanism within the unit automatically switches to the secondary input in the event of a power failure or overloading.

Select and Metered PDUs feature two separate input power circuits with corresponding, color-coded power cords, circuit breakers and outlets. These PDUs are designed to accommodate the two input power cords found on many networking devices. Using the unit's separate circuits, IT administrators can construct a rack installation that is tolerant to fault, by sourcing power from two separate systems. And since these units consolidate the features of two models into one housing, they reduce clutter and allow for increased airflow in racks, which is vital to energy conservation.

Different PDUs allow for a variety of mounting options and are typically built for permanent mounting, either horizontally or vertically within the rack enclosures. When mounted horizontally, they typically occupy 1 - 2 rack spaces. Vertical mounted PDUs occupy no rack space because they are connected onto (or behind) the rack's vertical rails.

Since PDUs generally function as the entry point for power into a rack, most come with a 10- to 15-foot input cord, giving them the option of being mounted anywhere within a rack enclosure and still be plugged into a distant power source.


So which PDU is right for your IT application?

• Basic units provide enough outlets to run the many servers, networking and telecommunication loads that mandate continuous power;
• Metered PDUs allow IT personnel to monitor the amount of power their equipment is consuming and helps them to determine when to add more capacity;
• Switched PDUs allow you to reboot remotely, thus eliminating the need to travel to remote sites for a manual reboot.

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