Category: Power Distribution Unit

How Power Distribution Units Safeguard Data Center Operations: Key Strategies 

Introduction

Imagine entering a busy data center filled with lots of high-tech stuff and buzzing with the promise of new ideas.

As you stroll among the rack shelves and computer equipment, a sense of unease creeps over you. Something doesn’t feel quite normal.

Your current Power Distribution Unit (PDU) just isn’t cutting it in this fast-changing environment. It struggles to keep up with the increasing need for power, leaving you worried about things breaking down and getting overloaded.

But relax, there’s a solution tailor-made for you.

Understanding the Role of PDUs in Data Centers

Data centers are like the central hub for modern businesses, holding all the important IT equipment and systems. Having a constant supply of power is super important for them to work properly. That’s where the PDU

 power distribution unit comes in. PDUs are basically like the Master Orchestrator of power in the data center. They take power from the main source and send it to all the different equipment, making sure everything gets the power it needs to run smoothly.

Choosing the right PDU for your data center is super important. Picking the wrong one for your setup can lead to power outages, system malfunctions, or equipment damage. Choosing the smart PDU ensures even power distribution and scalability as your data center grows.

What are Power Distribution Units?

Power Distribution Units (PDUs) are gadgets that spread electrical power to many devices in a data center. They take power from the primary source and send it to servers, networking gear, and other devices. PDUs are like the middlemen between the power source and the equipment, giving a central spot for managing and distributing power.

Different Types of PDUs

There are various kinds of PDUs out there. Each with its own set of features and abilities:

1. Basic PDUs: These offer simple power distribution without any advanced monitoring or control features. They’re good for simple data centers where you don’t need to manage or keep an eye on power from far away.

2. Metered PDUs: The Metered PDU tracks power usage for planning and monitoring power consumption. They give detailed information about power use at the PDU level, which is handy for making energy use more efficient.

3. Monitored PDUs: Monitored PDUs are like guardians for power and environmental conditions. They watch over how much power is used and keep tabs on temperature and humidity in real-time. They’re advanced enough to catch problems early and help manage things smoothly.

4. Switched PDUs: Switched PDUs offer remote control and the ability to turn outlets on and off from a distance.

7 Essential Considerations for Choosing the Right Power Distribution Unit for Your Data Center

1. Power Capacity

The power capacity of a smart PDU is super important to get right. You need to make sure it can handle all the stuff in your data center. First, figure out how much power all your equipment needs, like servers, switches, and storage devices. Think about how much power you’re using now and if you’ll need more in the future. Choose a PDU with enough power for both your current needs and any growth down the road. It’s smart to leave some extra room for expansion, usually about 20-30% more than what you need right now.

2. Types and Quantity of Outlets

Another important thing to think about is the kinds and how many outlets are available on the PDU. Check what power connectors your equipment uses and make sure the PDU has those. Also, figure out how many outlets you need to plug in all your devices. Look at how much space you have in your data center and plan accordingly. It’s smart to pick a PDU with more outlets than you need right now so you can easily add more devices later on.

3. Power Input Configuration

Knowing how power is set up in your data center is crucial for picking the smart PDU. Figure out if your data center uses single-phase or three-phase power. Single-phase is usual for small to medium centers, while bigger ones often use three-phase. Make sure the PDU you choose matches your data center’s power setup to ensure it works smoothly and distributes power efficiently.

4. Monitoring and Managing Power Systems

In modern data centers, keeping a close eye on power usage and control is key to using energy wisely and ensuring uninterrupted operation. Seek out the PDU Power Distribution Unit with built-in monitoring features like voltage, current, power factor, and energy use. These tools offer valuable information on how power is used. They help you spot problems early, manage capacity better, and use energy more efficiently. Some advanced PDUs even let you monitor and control power from afar, all from one central spot.

5. Redundancy and Fault Tolerance

Keeping data centers running smoothly without interruptions is super important. To make sure of this, look for a Power Distribution Unit with backup plans built in. These may feature dual power inputs, automatic switches for fault tolerance, and hot-swappable components. These features mean that even if something breaks or the power goes out unexpectedly, your data center can keep on going without a hitch. Having backup systems in place reduces the chances of your setup experiencing downtime due to power issues, thus enhancing its reliability.

6. Mounting Possibilities and Physical Design

Think about how much space you have in your data center and check out the different ways PDUs can be installed. PDUs come in different shapes and sizes like ones you can mount on racks, ones that stand vertically, and modular ones. Pick a PDU that fits your space and fits well with your current rack setup. Also, think about how easy it is to reach and install when you’re choosing how to mount it.

7. Scalability and Capacity for Future Growth

As data centers keep growing, it’s important to pick a PDU that can grow with them. Check out what scalability options the manufacturer offers. Some PDUs have designs where you can add or take out parts as you need. This means your power setup can change along with your needs, making upgrades smooth and not too disruptive.

Conclusion

Picking the right Power Distribution Unit for your data center is super important to keep things running smoothly. Even though there are a lot of choices out there, taking the time to figure out what you really need will be worth it in the end.

When it comes to reliable power solutions, Elcom (Electronic Components Manufacturer in India) stands out. Our systems are designed to endure even the harshest conditions.We believe in delivering dependable power precisely when you need it. That’s why we have been the preferred choice for businesses and IT professionals worldwide since 1981.

If you want to know more about our electronic components and how they can help your business, contact our experts today. We’ll give personalized advice on the best components for you and ensure your system runs smoothly. Contact us now to Discover the power of reliable electronic components with Elcom today!

In an era driven by digital advancements, accelerated by the pandemic, the rise of digital processes, and the Internet of Things, the world is witnessing an unprecedented surge in data generation. This insatiable demand for data is propelling the global data center market to anticipate a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.5% from 2022 to 2032. Consequently, the optimization of data center uptime and resilience has become paramount. In addressing this challenge, data center and server room administrators find a straightforward solution: the Power Distribution Unit (PDU).

Here are the top five reasons for using a smart PDU in your data center. 

1. Energy-Efficiency at Its Core: PDU’s Power-Saving Features The Power Distribution Unit (PDU) incorporates an energy-saving relay, a specialized subtype of an electromagnetic switch, providing data center and server room administrators with precise control over substantial current flow. This innovative relay results in a noteworthy reduction of energy consumption within the rack, boasting an annual savings of 131.4 kWh per 30-outlet PDU unit when compared to PDUs lacking such relays. The integration of these energy-saving relays extends beyond more efficiency gains, contributing to a ripple effect of benefits, including diminished CO2 emissions, lowered electricity expenses, and reduced annual carbon taxes.

Moreover, these resilient smart pdu’s relays ensure uninterrupted power distribution, effectively safeguarding servers against disruptions in the event of a failure. In essence, the utilization of 3-phase capabilities enables a more efficient generation, transfer, and distribution of electricity, ultimately leading to substantial savings in energy costs.

2. Cost Control Made Transparent: Smart PDUs in Data Centers  The operational expenses of data centers are widely recognized for their substantial costs. Often, the challenge lies not solely in the expense of power but in the lack of comprehensive insights into power    distribution within the data center. Smart PDU Power Distribution Units (PDUs) play a pivotal role by providing administrators with precise visibility into power allocation, offering a granular view across racks and rows. This transparency serves as a foundational step in identifying opportunities to cut  back power consumption, empowering data center managers to strategically optimize resource utilization and control costs effectively.

3. Enhancing Uptime Statistics: The Role of Intelligent PDUs Downtime is a dreaded concern for data center managers and IT professionals alike. Intelligent PDU power distribution units emerge as a vital solution equipped with advanced power alerts and environmental monitoring features. This becomes particularly crucial in dynamic data centers where compute cycles rapidly evolve. By leveraging smart PDUs, data center managers can achieve heightened visibility into the performance of their mechanical and electrical systems, thereby fortifying uptime statistics and ensuring operational resilience.

4. Versatile PDU Configurations to Match Diverse Needs  PDU power distribution units come in both horizontal and vertical mounting models, available in 1- and 3-phase variants. Customization options allow tailoring PDUs to specific needs, adapting to rack space and desired outlet quantity. Horizontal PDUs, suitable for network racks with limited depth, and vertical power distribution unit PDUs, designed for server racks, provide flexibility based on rack types. Furthermore, standard PDUs offer adaptability, allowing customization to meet the unique requirements of customers.

5. Dependable Power Backup and Seamless Power Delivery In essence, PDU power distribution units play a pivotal role in ensuring streamlined power distribution and safeguarding against overloads. They possess the capability to monitor circuits for power irregularities and communicate with the UPS unit in case of a power disruption affecting critical equipment within the rack. The UPS connected to PDU possesses ample backup power to manage the designated load.

Elcom International – Your Trusted Electronic Components Manufacturer:

As a highly reputable electronic components manufacturer, Elcom International is dedicated to designing, manufacturing, and rigorously testing all products before making them available for industrial application. In strict adherence to industry standards, Elcom International ensures that its Rack PDUs undergo comprehensive industry-standard tests and manufacturing practices. This commitment ensures the delivery of products that not only meet but exceed industry benchmarks, providing optimal efficiency in terms of functionality.

PDUs play a crucial role in managing power distribution in electrical systems. They ensure that power is distributed evenly and efficiently to all connected devices, preventing overloading or underloading of circuits, and minimizing the risk of electrical hazards. PDUs also provide advanced features such as power monitoring, remote management, and redundancy, which enhance the reliability and uptime of connected equipment. 

With their ability to monitor power usage, remote management capabilities, and backup power sources, PDUs optimize power distribution and safeguard connected equipment from potential electrical hazards, making them indispensable in various applications where efficient power distribution is critical.

Definition of Power Distribution Unit (PDU)

A Power Distribution Unit (PDU) is a device that distributes electric power from a single source to multiple outlets, providing power distribution and control for various electronic devices. A Power Distribution Unit (PDU) consists of a housing, power inlet, outlets, circuit breakers, and optional monitoring/control features. The housing is typically made of metal or high-quality plastic, while internal components are made of conductive materials like copper. PDUs are commonly used in data centers, server rooms, and other environments where multiple devices need to be powered and managed efficiently.

The following is the list of key features offered by Elcom International and holds the expertise to inculcate them in the power distribution unit produced by them:

1. Power Monitoring and Management

Many PDUs come with built-in power monitoring capabilities that allow users to monitor power usage in real-time, providing valuable insights into power consumption, load balancing, and identifying potential issues. PDUs with power management features allow users to remotely control outlets, reset devices, schedule power cycling, and set alarms for power events, making power management more efficient and convenient.

2. Redundancy and Reliability

PDUs often come with redundant power inputs and outputs, ensuring continuous power availability even in case of a power source failure. This redundancy feature increases the reliability and uptime of connected devices, minimizing the risk of downtime and data loss.

3. Load Capacity

The load capacity of a PDU refers to the maximum amount of power it can handle. PDUs are available in different load capacities, ranging from a few amps to several hundred amps, depending on the power requirements of the connected devices. It is crucial to choose a PDU with the appropriate load capacity to avoid overloading and ensure reliable power distribution.

4. Monitoring and Alarming

Monitoring and alarming features in a PDU allow users to track power events, set alarms for power anomalies, and receive notifications for potential power issues. This feature helps in proactive maintenance and troubleshooting, minimizing downtime and disruption. Real-time monitoring of power usage, temperature, and other parameters can help in identifying potential issues and taking timely actions to prevent power-related problems.

5. Remote Management

Remote management capabilities in a PDU allow users to manage and control power outlets from a central location. This feature is especially beneficial in large data centers or IT environments where physical access to PDUs may be limited. Remote management enables efficient power management, troubleshooting, and maintenance, making it a crucial feature in modern PDUs.

6. Built-in Security

Security is a critical consideration in any IT infrastructure, and PDUs are no exception. PDUs with built-in security features, such as authentication, authorization, and encryption, help in safeguarding power distribution systems from unauthorized access and potential security breaches. This ensures the integrity and confidentiality of power usage data and minimizes the risk of power-related security threats. 

7. Cost-effective

Cost-effectiveness is a crucial factor in selecting a PDU, as it impacts the overall budget and ROI of the IT infrastructure. PDUs that provide a balance between features and cost, offer competitive pricing, and provide long-term reliability and performance are considered cost-effective choices. Cost-effective PDUs meet the power distribution requirements of the IT environment without compromising on quality or performance.

8. Easy Installation and Maintenance

Easy installation and maintenance are important features of a PDU, ensuring quick deployment and minimal downtime. PDUs with tool-less mounting options, color-coded outlets, and modular designs make installation and maintenance tasks easier and more efficient. User-replaceable components, such as power modules or outlet modules, reduce downtime and simplify maintenance activities, ensuring uninterrupted power distribution.

Elcom International’s PDU power distribution units are a reliable and efficient solution for optimizing power distribution in data centers and IT environments. Trust Elcom International’s PDUs to ensure an uninterrupted power supply, safeguard critical IT equipment, and optimize power resources for smooth and reliable IT operations. 

Elcom International, a leading manufacturer of power distribution units (PDUs), has established expertise in the manufacturing of these components. Complying with safety measures in accordance with industrial standards, Elcom ensures the highest level of quality and reliability in their PDUs. 

Catering to modern day requirements, Elcom International has incorporated all the crucial features in the new offering in PDU range. The Elgo PDU by Elcom International is a cutting edge power distribution Unit designed to optimize energy management in data centers. With its advanced features and user friendly interface, it allows seamless monitoring and control of power distribution, ensuring efficiency and reliability. 

With a track record of successfully delivering customized features tailored to specific requirements, Elcom’s PDUs are known for their promising usage ability and guaranteed durability. Experience increased flexibility and enhanced performance with the Elgo PDU, making it indispensable asset for modern data center infrastructure. Contact Elcom International today to learn more about our Smart PDU solutions.

Efficient management of power distribution units (PDUs), specifically rack PDUs or rack power distribution unit, is crucial for ensuring smooth operations and optimal performance in edge data centers. As edge data centers become more prevalent, effective management of power distribution units (PDUs) becomes crucial for ensuring smooth operations and optimal performance. At Elcom International, we understand the unique requirements of edge data centers and offer PDUs with advanced features offered by Elcom International’s rack PDUs that are tailored for effective data center management. We shall explore eight key PDU features that are essential for edge data center management in this informative blog.

1. Remote Monitoring and Management: Edge data centers are often located in remote or hard-to-reach areas, making it challenging to monitor and manage PDUs on-site. Remote monitoring and management capabilities allow data center operators to access and control PDUs from a central location, ensuring real-time visibility into power usage, load balancing, and troubleshooting. This feature enables proactive monitoring, reduces downtime, and enhances overall data center management efficiency.

2. Power Metering and Reporting: Elcom International PDUs provide accurate power metering and reporting at the outlet level, enabling data center operators to monitor power consumption and analyze power usage trends. This information helps with capacity planning, load balancing, and optimizing power distribution for improved energy efficiency, ensuring data centers operate at peak performance while minimizing power wastage.

3. Outlet-Level Control: Outlet-level control allows data center operators to individually control power to each outlet on the PDU. This feature provides flexibility in managing power distribution to different devices or equipment, enabling granular control over power usage. Outlet-level control also helps in remotely powering on or off specific devices, resetting devices, or isolating devices in case of issues, thereby enhancing data center management efficiency  reducing downtime.

4. Environmental Monitoring: Environmental monitoring features provide real-time information on temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors within the data center. This helps data center operators to detect potential hotspots, humidity-related issues, and other environmental anomalies that could impact the performance and reliability of critical equipment. With environmental monitoring capabilities, data center operators can take proactive measures to prevent equipment failures and ensure optimal operating conditions.

5. Redundancy and Failover: Redundancy and failover features are crucial for ensuring high availability and reliability in edge data centers. PDUs with redundant power inputs, power supplies, and failover capabilities provide backup power and redundant power paths, ensuring uninterrupted power supply to critical equipment in case of power failures or hardware failures. Redundancy and failover features help data center operators minimize downtime, maintain service levels, and improve overall data center reliability.

6. Load Balancing: Load balancing capabilities allow data center operators to distribute power loads evenly across multiple PDUs to prevent overloading or underutilization of PDUs. Load balancing helps in optimizing power distribution, maximizing PDU utilization, and ensuring efficient use of power resources. This feature is especially critical in edge data centers where power capacity may be limited, and load balancing can help prevent power-related issues and ensure smooth operations.

7. Security Features: Security is a top priority in data center management. PDUs with robust security features, such as authentication, authorization, and encryption, help prevent unauthorized access and tampering of power distribution settings. Additionally, features such as role-based access control (RBAC) allow data center operators to define and enforce user permissions, ensuring only authorized personnel can access and modify PDU settings. Security features in Elcom International PDUs help protect against security breaches, data leaks, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

8. Scalability and Flexibility: Edge data centers are expected to grow and evolve rapidly, requiring PDUs that are scalable and flexible. PDUs with modular designs, expandable configurations, and the ability to add or remove outlets or power modules as needed provide scalability and flexibility in managing changing power requirements. Scalable and flexible PDUs allow data center operators to adapt to changing power requirements, accommodate new equipment, and optimize power distribution as the data center grows.

Efficient management of PDUs is critical for the reliable and optimal performance of edge data centers. Elcom International understands the unique requirements of edge data center management and offers PDUs with advanced features to meet these demands. With remote monitoring and management, power metering and reporting, outlet-level control, environmental monitoring, redundancy and failover, load balancing, security features, and scalability and flexibility, Elcom International PDUs provide a comprehensive solution for effective data center management. 

Choose Elcom International’s rack PDUs for your edge data center power distribution needs and experience the benefits of advanced features tailored for efficient data center management. With our reliable and innovative solutions, you can confidently power your edge data centers and meet the evolving demands of the digital landscape. Contact us today to learn more about our rack PDU offerings and how they can optimize your edge data center operations. Stay ahead with Elcom International and power your edge data centers with confidence.

In today’s world, data centers are critical components of modern business operations. They are responsible for storing and managing the data organizations need to operate effectively. One of the critical components of any data center is the power distribution unit (PDU). The PDU is responsible for distributing power to the various components of the data center, ensuring that they have a steady and reliable source of electricity. 

Let’s discuss the importance of a PDU in data center management in this blog

Centralized power management: One of the primary benefits of a PDU is centralized power management. for networking & Server Racks / Cabinets. In a data center, there are typically many different devices that require power. The PDU serves as a centralized hub, allowing data center managers to monitor and control power usage for all these devices from a single location. 

Improved uptime: Another key benefit of a PDU is improved uptime. Data center downtime can be highly costly for organizations, both in terms of lost revenue and damage to reputation. The PDU helps minimize the risk of downtime by ensuring that all devices have a reliable power source. 

Load balancing: In addition to providing a reliable power source, the PDU also helps balance the load across the networking & server racks / cabinets in the data center’s for  electrical infrastructure and also helps balance the load across each IT rack/cabinet in the data center.. By evenly distributing power to all devices, the PDU helps to prevent the overloading of individual circuits or devices, which can lead to downtime or damage. 

Energy efficiency: The PDU can also help to improve energy efficiency in the data center IT cabinets / Racks. By monitoring power usage and controlling power distribution, the PDU can help identify areas where energy is wasted and implement measures to reduce energy consumption. 

Remote monitoring and control: Many modern PDUs also offer remote monitoring and control capabilities. This allows data center managers to monitor power usage and control power distribution from a remote location with individual racks/ cabinets, which can be highly beneficial for managing large or geographically dispersed data centers. 

Scalability: As data centers grow and expand, the PDU can be easily scaled to meet the increased demand for power. This scalability ensures that the data center can continue operating effectively as it grows without significant infrastructure upgrades. 

Improved safety: The PDU also plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of the data center’s for IT Cabinets for electrical infrastructure. By monitoring power usage and controlling power distribution, the PDU helps to prevent the overloading of circuits and devices, which can lead to electrical fires or other safety hazards. 

Compliance: Finally, the PDU can help IT cabinets / Racks in data center managers comply with relevant regulations and standards. Many regulations and standards require data centers to have reliable and secure power distribution systems in place, and the PDU helps to ensure that the data center meets these requirements.

With the continued growth of data center operations, the importance of the PDU in data center management is only set to increase. The power distribution unit plays a critical role in overall data center management. By providing centralized power management and improved uptime, the power distribution unit in data center management helps balance loads and improve energy efficiency for optimum use. The PDU also helps with remote monitoring and control, ensuring scalability and compliance. In a nutshell, the PDU supports rest assured with data centers’ reliable and efficient operations. As such, organizations must invest in reliable and efficient PDUs to ensure that their data centers operate effectively and meet the demands of modern business operations.

Elcom International, a leading manufacturer of electronic components, offers a range of smart PDUs equipped with advanced features. Backed by cutting-edge technology and extensive research, Elcom’s power distribution units are designed with prominence and proficiency, complying with industry standards and guidelines for safety, functionality, and efficiency. Among their innovative products is the the newly launched ELGO PDUs, which are the first plug-and-play socket and PDU for data centers. With hot swappable connectors, users can easily switch the existing outlets with a variety of configurations, including C13 and C19, and upgrade to C15 and C21 as needed without downtime or the need to order specific outlet combinations in advance. The finger-safe safety cage, conforming to IEC 61032 standards, allows for safe on-site connector swapping using their proprietary Extraction tool. ELGO PDUs also offer the flexibility to use NEMA connectors for network gear or accessories, saving users even more costs. Elcom’s ELGO PDU is available in horizontal and vertical configurations, including basic, metered, smart aggregate metered, individually metered and switched, catering to the needs of any data center.

PDUs (Power Distribution Units) distribute power to connected loads. They are commonly used in server racks to distribute power to multiple servers and other IT equipment in a data center. Generally, PDUs, or Power Distribution Units, distribute electrical power in the form of alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) to multiple devices within a system. They are usually plugged into a power source to distribute power to the related equipment. PDUs manage and regulate power distribution in data centers, server rooms, network closets, and more.

It is essential to pick the right PDU for the server rack to ensure an adequate power supply and that the servers get the right power to perform optimally. The suitable rack power distribution unit also helps protect servers from power surges and outages and helps ensure the safety of Data Centre personnel.

Decide Your Needs: Before purchasing a rack PDU, you should decide what features and capabilities you need from your PDU. In addition to the basic function of distributing power, you will need intelligent distribution functions such as outlet monitoring, remote access, environmental monitoring, switched outlets, or other smart features. Knowing what parts or equipment  you need to be powered is essential for selecting the right PDU.

Determine the size: PDUs come in different sizes and capacities. You need to determine the size and power distribution that your server rack requires. For instance, the number of outlets you need, the total amperage, and the total wattage will help determine the PDU feature set and size you need.

Consider Form Factor: PDUs come in various form factors such as vertical (0U) and horizontal (1U, 2U), characterized as Single-Phase Rack Mount and a Three Phase Rack. Generally, these designs are the most space efficient since they mount inside the server rack.

Consider Smart Features: Smart PDUs feature advanced capabilities such as power metering, outlet switching, and remote access. Along with the ability to cater to various energy consumption requirements, PDUs with such capabilities provide comprehensive support throughout the consumption.

Use Quality Cables: Once you have selected the PDU for your server rack, you need to use quality power cables to connect the PDU to your server rack. Poor-quality cables can cause interruptions and damage your server and other equipment.

Follow Safety Practices: After selecting and installing your PDU, make sure you follow proper safety practices when working with the PDU. This includes having access to the unit off and never working on the PDU while it’s powered.

By following these steps, you should be able to select the finest PDU for your server rack. However, it is essential to do thorough research and consider your needs and the quality of the cables when choosing the PDU for the server rack.

Assuring a quality designed precisely to fit the ideal solution, Elcom International, a leading electronic components manufacturer in India, provides top-quality basic rack PDU. The basic PDUS by Elcom International is easy to use with hassle-free plugs. The PDUs are designed to supply electric power to all IT devices, including a fully functional telecom infrastructure. The rack PDUs are engineered with precision to cater to a wide range of input connections based on the power consumption capacity. 

Another advantage of the basic rack power distribution unit is the scope of customization. The rack PDUs by Elcom International can be customized based on the requirements, relevance to business operations, etc. The scope of customization in PDUs includes changes in the design of PDU type, socket type, electrical parameters, and certifications based on the requirement and relevance to the nature of the business.

As one of India’s top electronic equipment manufacturers, Elcom International provides a range of output connections depending on the requirement of power consumption in the IT racks. These basic rack power distribution units by Elcom International are one of the standard power distribution units that offer sufficient server support and promote efficient power distribution. Since the rack power distribution is a single input with multiple output receptacles, the receptacles ideally distribute the power from low-amperage single-phase circuits to a 3-phase circuit with a higher power. 

A PDU (Power Distribution Unit) is a device equipped with multiple outlets IEC60320 or NEMA designed to distribute power to the various devices like servers in a server rack in Datacenters. Power is one of the most important assets to monitor in a data center environment. Managing power is essential to maintain both cost-efficiency and optimal output from the equipment. An efficient power monitoring system helps avoid server downtime and optimizes power usage, leading to better financial and computational results.

PDUs manage and distribute electricity and are usually installed directly onto IT server or network racks.  The power is supplied from a utility power supplier, an uninterruptible power supply, a generator or a secondary power source. PDUs are also designed for power requirements typically much more extensive than office or home power strips and surge protectors. Power distribution units ensure that an organization’s IT infrastructure and data center is adequately powered. Organizations also use PDUs to monitor power uptime and efficiency.

What does a Power Distribution Unit Do?

A power distribution unit performs the identical task as a power strip, delivering current from a single source (such as a wall outlet) to numerous devices, like servers, networking peripherals, gear, and computers. PDUs are assembled for installation in special equipment racks, conveniently keeping power within reach of rack-mounted devices like routers, services, switches, or cooling fans. PDUs are typically employed in data centers, VoIP phone systems, network closets, and industrial environments; beyond standard power distribution, PDUs offer in-depth power monitoring and management. The most common types of PDUs available include:

1. Basic
2. Metered
3. Monitored
4. Switched
5. Switched Metered-By-Outlet

BENEFITS OF INSTALLING A POWER DISTRIBUTION UNIT

Every network is unique, so a monitoring system must be designed to fit your space. The risk of buying too little or too much is very high regarding power distribution units. Elcom International is one of the leading specialized electronic components manufacturers that offer a wide range of Power distribution units exclusively for small-scale and large-scale data centers.

Nowadays, most data centers frequently face power protection and management solutions challenges. This is why power distribution units get extensively used in data centers to control, monitor and manage electrical power distribution effectively. Elcom’s cutting edge intelligent PDUs help empower IT professionals and data center facility managers worldwide to effectively and efficiently use and monitor available resources. It also provides flexibility to manage infrastructure resources without disrupting the data center’s day-to-day operations.