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A power distribution unit (PDU) or mains distribution unit (MDU) is a device fitted with multiple outputs designed to distribute electric power, especially to racks of computers and networking equipment located within a data center. Data centers face challenges in power protection and management solutions. This is why many data centers rely on PDU monitoring to improve efficiency, uptime, and growth.
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Rack mount
PDUs vary from simple and inexpensive rack-mounted power strips to larger floor-mounted PDUs with multiple functions including power filtering to improve power quality, intelligent load balancing, and remote monitoring and control by LAN or SNMP. This kind of PDU placement offers capabilities such as power metering at the inlet, outlet, and PDU branch circuit leveland support for environment sensors.
Cabinet
In data centers, larger PDUs are needed to power multiple server cabinets. Each server cabinet or rows of cabinets may require multiple high current circuits possibly from different phases of incoming power or different UPSs. Standalone cabinet PDUs are self-contained units that include main breakers, individual circuit breakers, and power monitoring panels. The cabinet provides internal bus bars for neutral and grounding. Prepunched top and bottom panels allow for safe cable entry.
Movable
In home or offices power distribution units are movable to a certain extent.