8 best power distribution units

Power Distribution Units (PDUs) are critical components in the field of electronics and power accessories. They play a vital role in distributing electrical power to multiple devices from a single source while providing protection, control, and monitoring capabilities. Here's what you should know about power distribution units:

  1. Purpose:

    • PDUs are used to efficiently distribute electrical power from a primary source (such as a UPS, generator, or wall outlet) to multiple devices, equipment, or racks in data centers, offices, industrial settings, and more.
  2. Types:

    • PDUs come in various types, including:
      • Basic PDUs: These provide simple power distribution without additional features like surge protection or monitoring.
      • Metered PDUs: These offer monitoring capabilities, allowing you to track power usage and monitor load levels.
      • Switched PDUs: These provide remote control and monitoring of individual outlets, allowing you to turn devices on/off remotely.
      • Smart/Intelligent PDUs: These combine monitoring and control features with advanced management capabilities, such as remote rebooting and environmental sensors.
      • Rack-Mount PDUs: Designed to be mounted in server racks or cabinets for organized power distribution.
      • Vertical/Zero-U PDUs: Space-saving units that mount vertically in the rack, often on the sides or back.
  3. Outlets:

    • PDUs come with various outlet types (e.g., NEMA, IEC, C13, C19) to accommodate different plug standards and device connections.
  4. Voltage and Current Rating:

    • PDUs are available in different voltage and current ratings to match the specific power requirements of your equipment. Common voltages include 120V and 230V.
  5. Redundancy and Failover:

    • Some PDUs offer redundancy features to ensure continuous power supply. These PDUs have dual power inputs and can switch to a secondary source if the primary source fails.
  6. Surge Protection:

    • Some PDUs are equipped with surge protection to safeguard connected devices from voltage spikes and transient surges.
  7. Remote Monitoring and Management:

    • Advanced PDUs provide remote monitoring and management capabilities through web interfaces, SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), or other communication protocols. This allows administrators to monitor power usage, control outlets remotely, and receive alerts in case of power issues.
  8. Environmental Monitoring:

    • Some PDUs include environmental sensors (e.g., temperature, humidity) to help monitor the conditions in the rack or data center.
  9. Energy Efficiency:

    • Energy-efficient PDUs can help reduce power consumption by turning off unused outlets or optimizing power distribution based on demand.
  10. Safety and Compliance:

    • PDUs should comply with safety standards and regulations to ensure safe operation and protection against electrical hazards.
  11. Mounting Options:

    • Depending on the application, PDUs can be mounted horizontally or vertically in server racks or cabinets, or they can be used as standalone units.
  12. Customization:

    • Some PDUs offer the option to customize outlet configurations to suit specific needs, allowing you to choose the types and quantities of outlets.

In summary, Power Distribution Units (PDUs) are essential components in electronic systems and data centers, providing efficient and controlled power distribution, monitoring, and protection. The choice of PDU depends on the specific requirements of the equipment and the level of control and monitoring needed for the power infrastructure.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best power distribution units on the market
  

CyberPower PDU41008 Power Distribution Unit Switched 200-240 V/30 A 16 Outlets 2U Rackmount

CyberPower

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The CyberPower PDU41008, a 16-Outlet (front), 2U rack mount switched power distribution unit (PDU), provides 200-240V 30a output. It distributes power to twelve (12) IEC C13 receptacles and four IEC C19 receptacles from a single NEMA L6-30P plug with unfiltered electrical pass-through. The switched outlet receptacles can be managed individually or collectively over the network, using the CyberPower management console, a web browser and the RJ45 Ethernet port for network connection, or locally by using the LCD controls. Outlets can be turned on, turned off, or recycled on demand or at programmed times to address a Number of needs including remote rebooting of locked equipment, load shedding, power sequencing, and locking out unauthorized loads. The PDU41008 comes with a three-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship in the product under normal use and conditions within three years of the purchase date.

  • 200 to 240 V/30 a switched power distribution unit
  • 16 switchable outlets: twelve (12) IEC 320 and four IEC 320 C19 outlets provide local and remote control for individual and multiple outlets
  • Power control display: provides Easy to read information on PDU conditions, including: Amperage, voltage, KW, IP address, etc
  • Input: NEMA L6 30P straight Plug with 12 foot power cord
  • 3 year limited warranty

Pyle 19 Outlet 1U 19" Rackmount PDU Power Distribution Supply Center Conditioner Strip Unit Surge Protector 15 Amp Circuit Breaker USB Multi Device Charge Port 15FT Cord (PCO860) Black

Pyle

Based on 250 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Ideal Power Distribution Solution for distributing power from a UPS system, generator or utility wall outlet. Configurable for 1U rackmount (horizontal), wall-mount, workbench, under-counter and similar installations. Making it ideal for IT, data-centers, networking, audio, video, professional office and home use. Features: - Universal Power Supply for Electronic Devices & Equipment - Front Panel AC Outlets - (16) Rear Panel Wired Power Cables - Integrated ‘Half-Hot’ / Switched AC Outlet - USB Port for Device Charging - (Works with Smartphones, Tablets, MP3 Players, etc.) - Compatible with 1U Mount 2 or 4 Post Rack Spaces - Includes Detachable Rack Mount Brackets - Plastic Cover Encased Power ON/OFF Switch Technical Specs: - Universal Rack Mount Size Standard: 1U - 15 Amp Circuit Breaker - Power Cable Length: 15’ ft. - Rear Panel Individual Power Cable Length 4.0’’ & 6.0’’ -Each - Power Supply: 110/240V (USB Power: 5V/2A) - Dimensions (L x W x H): 17.3’’ x 11.6’’ x 1.7’’ - Sold as: 1 - Weight: 8.7 lbs. —— SATISFACTION GUARANTEED —— Your satisfaction is our #1 priority. If this item fails to meet your expectations we will accept it back a full refund within the first 30 days. We also stand behind this product with a limited 1-Year manufacturer warranty. Contact us if the item should show any defect within the first year we will help exchange it for a new one.

  • DETACHABLE 1U RACK DESIGN - Versatile space saving 1U form factor rackmount power strip ideal for standard 19-inch racks. Detachable mounting flanges are configurable for rack-mount, wall-mount and under-counter installation.
  • FLEXIBLE REAR OUTLETS - 3 wide spaced front panel outlets and 16 flexible rear facing power cable outlet plugs allowing room for AC adapters and transformers. Integrated USB port for convenient simultaneous power supply to all your favorite devices.
  • PREMIUM SAFETY FEATURES - Integrated switched front panel AC outlet, plastic cover encased power switch. Built-in 15-amp circuit breaker prevents dangerous circuit overloads damaging equipment, shutting off AC input when load draws too much power.
  • 15FT POWER CABLE - Provide power supply distribution to previously un-powered areas away from power sources with an extra long 15-feet power cord, and power applications, or locations that require power, to many devices simultaneously.
  • 110/240V - For worldwide usage. Optimized for reliable distribution of alternate waveform AC power from a UPS system, generator or utility wall outlet to put you in control of getting reliable power service where you need it most.

User questions & answers

Question: does the standard rack mount hold the weight or do you need support rails
Answer: Hi, yes it can hold the weight of the unit. However, that will also depend on how many devices you wanted to connect. It will also add weight so you have to use support. You may check other details of the unit by visiting our website pyleaudio.com. Type the model number on the search box PCO860 for more details. Thank you.
Question: can I use this for my on board studio gear and my pcs
Answer: Don’t see why not. I’m using it as a power center for my home network. 3 external HDs , switch, modem, computer....
Question: How deep is the chassis part of this unit? The spec says 11.6" deep but I think that might be with the length of the dangly plugs
Answer: The actual metal chassis is only about 6-7" deep
Question: Does this unit help suppress EMI/hum/noise from audio gear
Answer: No, just a really high quality power distribution unit. Filters should be installed between your amps and this.

TRIPP LITE 1.9Kw Single-Phase Switched PDU Power Distribution Unit (PDUMH20NET2LX)

Tripp Lite

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The PDUMH20NET2LX 1.9kW Single-Phase Switched PDU provides advanced network control and remote power monitoring with the ability to turn on, turn off, reboot or lock out power to each outlet. By reducing the frequency of on-site visits, these advanced remote capabilities can save you money and reduce downtime. The 1U PDU features eight switched NEMA 5-15/20R outlets with an included cord retention bracket to prevent cables from becoming accidentally disconnected. A 12-foot cord with NEMA L5-20P plug and 5-20P plug adapter connects the PDU to a compatible AC power source, generator or protected UPS. The built-in javan-free HTML5-based LX Platform network interface enables full remote access for PDU status monitoring and email notifications via secure web browser, snap, telnet or SSH. It supports 10/100 Mbps auto-sensing for optimum communication with an Ethernet network. Optional envirosense2 modules (sold separately) provide a variety of environmental monitoring capabilities. Protocols supported include IPv4, IPv6, HTTP, HTTPS, SMTP, SNMPv1, SNMPv2, SNMPv3, telnet, SSH, FTP, DHCP and NTP. A digital ammeter allows you to monitor the total load in real time to ensure it remains well below maximum capacity with no danger of overload. The single-phase PDU installs in 1U of space in EIA-standard 19-inch racks. You can also mount it vertically in 0U of rack space or on a wall or under a counter with the included brackets and user-supplied screws.

  • 1.9kW 120V switched PDU with single-phase input
  • Recommended for network applications requiring individual outlet control, Load shedding and remote monitoring of critical network components
  • Nema L5-20P plug with 12 ft. Cord and 5-20P plug adapter connects to compatible AC power source
  • Firmware upgrades support future product Enhancements
  • 2-Year limited warranty

Product features

Distributes, Monitors and Manages Single-Phase Power with No Java Required

Tripp Lite's PDUMH20NET2LX 1.9kW Single-Phase Switched PDU is an efficient, cost-effective, next-generation power distribution solution with remote monitoring and control capabilities. Each of its eight NEMA 5-15/20R outlets can be turned on, turned off, rebooted or locked via Web interface, and you can monitor each outlet’s power consumption both remotely and with the unit’s ammeter. Designed for users who prefer a Java-free interface, this advanced 1U rack PDU distributes 120V single-phase output and is recommended for any IT or industrial application—especially those requiring individual outlet control, regular load shedding and remote monitoring of critical components. Its 12-foot cord with locking L5-20P plug connects to a compatible power source, generator or UPS.

HTML5-Based Interface Provides Advanced Network Monitoring and Control Capabilit

Featuring a built-in, Java-free, HTML5-based LX Platform interface (the mobile-friendly PowerAlert Device Manager), the PDUMH20NET2LX provides complete remote access f¬or power monitoring, configuration, control and email notifications via a secure network or Web browser. When used with an optional EnviroSense2 environmental sensor (sold separately), it can also perform temperature/humidity and dry contact monitoring, providing IT personnel with enhanced oversight of facility power and environmental conditions. As an added bonus, up to three EnviroSense2 modules can be daisy-chained together. The PDUMH20NET2LX supports 10/100 Mbps auto-sensing for optimum communication with an Ethernet network. Automated alerts can be configured to warn against potential overload, power loss and downtime. Protocols supported include IPv4, IPv6, HTTP, HTTPS, SMTP, SNMPv1, SNMPv2, SNMPv3, telnet, SSH, FTP, DHCP and NTP. DHCP/Manual configuration support provides the ability to have network settings automatically assigned or manually assigned via a permanent IP address.

Supports Individual Outlet Current Monitoring and Remote Outlet Control

The PDUMH20NET2LX offers the ability to turn on, turn off, recycle, or lock out power to any of its eight outlets as well as locally and remotely monitor each outlet’s output power consumption. This allows you to more efficiently manage network power consumption and properly balance loads, both remotely and on site. So if equipment needs to be rebooted on a Sunday—no problem! Simply log on from wherever you are and take care of business remotely.

Supports Real-Time Load and Power Status Monitoring

The PDUMH20NET2LX is equipped with a digital ammeter that allows you to monitor the PDU’s total load in real time. This meter helps ensure the PDU is used below maximum capacity with no danger of overload.

Reduces the Cost of Data Center Maintenance

Advanced remote control capabilities lower the PDUMH20NET2LX’s total cost of ownership by reducing the frequency of on-site visits.

Integrates Easily Into Your Existing Infrastructure

This 1U PDU includes all necessary mounting hardware and is configurable with front- or rear-facing installation in your rack. It also supports 0U vertical, wall and under-counter mounting with included brackets and user-supplied screws. Once the PDU is installed in your rack, included cable ties prevent cables from becoming accidentally disconnected from their outlets.

Why Choose Tripp Lite?

Founded in 1922 in Chicago, Illinois, Tripp Lite is a manufacturer of products to power, protect, manage, house, cool, connect and mount your equipment. From the largest data center to the smallest home office, Tripp Lite products keep your equipment running effectively and efficiently. Whether you need to supply power to servers and have reliable battery backup, connect high-resolution video sources to displays and digital signs, or organize and secure IT equipment in rack enclosures, Tripp Lite has the complete solution. Plus, before and after your purchase, our Chicago-based, in-house technical support specialists are available to assist you by phone, email and live chat. With over 95 years of quality products and service, Tripp Lite is a brand you can trust.

Eaton Electrical EMI104-10 Power Distribution Unit, Rack-Mountable

Eaton

Product description

Eaton G3 Metered Input ePDUs provide a best-in-class design featuring billing grade accuracy monitoring of input and branch circuits on a local LCD pixel display or over a network connection. The high accuracy meter will measure current, voltage, power and energy for load balancing, capacity planning, efficiency monitoring and energy usage reporting. Designed for IT and data center applications means high reliability and a robust design made for high operating temperatures found in containment or networking closets.

  • IEC outlet grip plug retention secures plugs in place using standard cables
  • Advanced LCD pixel display for local display of current, voltage, power, energy and menu setup of parameters such as IP address or display rotation
  • High operating temperature (140F/60C) for containment or hot network closet environments
  • Hot-swap meter for serviceability of without removing power to the rack
  • +/- 1% billing grade accuracy for high accuracy reporting of energy usage

CNAweb Power Distribution Unit 19" 1U Rack Mount PDU 8 Outlet 6' Power Cord - Black

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

1U 8-outlet rack mount power strip for use with 19" racks. 6 ft. cord length. Power cord: 6' 14/3 SJT, Input plug: NEMA 5-15P Pivotal, Receptacle: NEMA 5-15R, Outlet: 8 Receptacles Black ABS Plastic Case.

  • 19" Rack Mount PDU with Power Switch
  • Input plug: NEMA 5-15P Pivotal
  • Receptacle: NEMA 5-15R
  • Outlet: 8 Receptacles
  • Power cord: 6' 16/3 SJT

E-link Metered PDU Switched Metered Rack Power Distribution Units, 125-250V/16A, 8 NEMA 5-20R Outlets, 1U Rackmount with Surge Protection Module and OLED Screen Data Monitoring (Black-Outlets)

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price
  • 【PDU Parameters】►Metered PDU►Measurement Accuracy:Grade 1► Display OLED Screen► 125–250V AC NEMA 5-15P input, NEMA 5-20R 8 total outlets► Max 16A / 2800W Output
  • 【Size & Installation】19 * 1.74 * 6.42 in: Support 1U rackmount, 19 inch Rail Installation, 0U vertical rackmount, wall-mount, and under-counter installation
  • 【PDU Case】T6 Hardened Aluminum Alloy,Anti-electric Shock, Fast Heat Dissipation, 4-Layer Coating with Piano Pain Technology.
  • 【PDU Cord】2.05 Square Copper Busbar, 6 Feet Length Power Cord
  • 【PDU Switch】Industrial L and N Double-break Master Switch; Power Overload, Automatic Trip, Safe to Use, Easy to Operate.

Product features

Overview

E-link's Electric Basic Rack Power Distribution Unit (PDU) distributes power to devices in the 19’’ rack. The PDU with 8 outlets and build-in surge protector. Universal 10/16A 125–250V PDU is compatible with wide range of voltages to deliver single-phase AC power to multiple loads from a utility outlet, generator or UPS system. Ideal for data centers, server rooms and network wiring closets.

The reversible all-metal housing supports a variety of mounting options, including 1U horizontal or 0U vertical mounting in EIA-standard 19-inch racks, under a counter or on a wall or workbench.

Features

► 125–250V AC input, 8 total outlets

► Max 16A / 2800W Output

► Support 19 inch Rack-mount

► Different plug types available

► Build-in Power meter with OLED display

► Gen 3 10KA Surge Protection module

► L and N Double-break Switch

► UL94V-0 Grade Flame Resistant Material

► Four-layer Piano Paint T6 Hardened Aluminum Profile

► Complies with the requirements of IEC60297 standards

► EMI.RFI Protection

L and N Double-break Switch
Build-in Power meter with OLED display

High-Presision PowerMeter

Measurement Tolerance Less Than 1%

Outlets & Plug can be customized
Four-layer Piano Paint & T6 Hardened Aluminum Profile
Package

Tripp Lite Hot-Swap PDU, 20A, 8 Outlets (4-5-15R, 4-5-15/20R), 120V, 2 5-20P, 10 ft. & 6 ft. Cords, 2U Rack-Mount Power (PDUB20)

Tripp Lite

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tripp Lite’s Hot-swap PDU systems enable live-replacement of standard UPS systems for maintenance with no interruption of connected server or networking loads. Dual input power cables support PDU connection to separate Utility and UPS power sources. Manual transfer switch with lighted status indicators controls the source of power to connected equipment between Utility and UPS. Set the switch to UPS during normal operation and connected equipment will receive full-time conditioned power from the UPS. Set the switch to Utility to momentarily power connected equipment from the Utility line cord and bypass the UPS while the UPS system is removed and replaced with a fresh one. Once the new UPS is up and running with all data and electrical connections restored, set the switch back to the UPS setting to once again provide fully-conditioned UPS power to connected equipment. PDUB20 is universally compatible with any Tripp Lite or other brand of 100-127V UPS rated 2200 to 2600VA with a 5-20P input plug. Pair of attached 5-20P PDU input cables connect to separate Utility and UPS power sources. 4 5-15R and 4 5-15/20R outlets support critical networking loads in both Utility and UPS operating modes. 2U rackmount installation in 2 or 4 post racks with support for space saving rear-post mounting in the same rack space as your Tripp Lite Rackmount UPS (select installations, see manual)

From the Manufacturer

  • Tripp Lite Hot-swap PDU systems support live-replacement of standard UPS systems for maintenance with no interruption of connected server or networking loads
  • PDUB20 is universally compatible with any Tripp Lite or other brand of 100-127V UPS rated up to 2600VA or 1920 watts with a NEMA 5-15P or 5-20P input cable
  • 2U horizontal rackmount form factor compatible with 2 or 4 post racks
  • Supports space saving rear-post mounting in the same rack space as many Tripp Lite Rackmount UPS systems (select installations, see manual)
  • Pair of attached 5-20P PDU input cables connect to separate Utility and UPS power sources

Walther Electric Portable Power Distribution Unit (PDU) | 50A Single Phase 2-Pole 4 Wire Spider Box UL Listed - HEB201U (NEMA 3R)

WALTHER WERKE

Product description

Solid Rubber Enclosure, non-conductive, Compact, Robust, Portable with top mounted handle, Internal breakers are protected by a transparent hinged cover, Black in color can be used in nuclear facilities, Stackable, UV resistant, NEMA 3R Walther can custom design configurations that meet your application requirements. Walther can produce and supply the mating cable assemblies 120/208VAC, Single Phase one tier PDU with Input: 50A Twist lock CS6375 2-Pole, 4 Wire inlet, Output: 50A Twist lock, CS6369, 2-Pole, 4 Wire receptacle with weather cover, 20A Duplex GFCI receptacles protected by 50A 2-Pole breaker(main), 20A 1-Pole breakers APPLICATION: Construction Sites, Data Centers, Entertainment/Concerts, Ship building, Ship Repair and anywhere you need temporary portable power distribution.

  • NON-CONDUCTIVE – Heavy-duty solid rubber “non-conductive” enclosure suitable for indoor/outdoor use. NEMA 3R rated for weather resistance to rain, sleet, snow and external formation of ice on the enclosure
  • SPACE SAVING STACKABLE - Modular design allows for multiple-tier, stacked use and storage
  • POWER SURGE / OVERLOAD PROTECTION - Six 20A Duplex GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) receptacles are OSHA compliant. Easy access via transparent side-entry, hinged cover
  • COMPACT SIZE – 11.5” (L) x 12.5” (W) x 14” (H). Includes portable easy-to-carry top handle
  • CUSTOMIZATION - Can be built to your exact specifications - If you think it, we can build it! Cable assemblies available in stock and custom sizes

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