what is a pdu in data center

data center PDU

A Power Distribution Unit (PDU) is a critical component in data centers, designed to manage and distribute electrical power to various IT equipment such as servers, networking devices, and storage systems. PDUs help ensure that power is supplied efficiently and reliably, addressing the complex power needs of modern data center environments.

PDUs operate similarly to power strips but are specifically engineered for high-capacity applications. They take alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) from a primary power source—such as a utility supply, generator, or uninterruptible power supply (UPS)—and distribute it to multiple outlets. This setup minimizes the distance between IT equipment and power sources, enhancing power quality and simplifying cable management.

The role of PDUs in data centers is vital due to the increasing demands for power density and efficiency. As IT infrastructure evolves, so does the complexity of power distribution. PDUs not only facilitate effective power management but also contribute to reducing operational costs by optimizing energy use and minimizing downtime due to power-related issues.

Types of Cabinet PDUs for Data Center

Rack Power Distribution Units (PDUs) are essential components in data centers, designed to distribute electrical power to IT equipment efficiently. There are several types of rack PDUs, each with unique features and functionalities. Here’s a breakdown of the primary types:

Basic Rack PDU

Description: Basic PDUs are straightforward power distribution devices that provide reliable electricity to multiple outlets within a rack. They are entry-level solutions, typically low-cost, and suitable for a variety of configurations.
Features:
– Simple design without monitoring capabilities.
– Compliance with regional standards (e.g., UL in North America, CE in Europe) is essential for safety and operational requirements.

Metered Rack PDU

Description: Metered PDUs allow data center managers to monitor power consumption metrics via a local display. Features:
– Ideal for environments where monitoring power usage is critical to prevent overloads.
– Provides real-time visibility of power consumption, making it suitable for secure data centers that require air-gapped infrastructure.

Monitored Rack PDU

Description: Monitored PDUs offer comprehensive visibility into power usage at both the rack and outlet levels.
Features:
– Capable of remote monitoring, allowing users to access power metrics and receive alerts for breaches in user-defined thresholds.
– Recommended for high-density data centers focused on improving Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE).

Switched Rack PDU

Description: Switched PDUs provide all the features of monitored PDUs with the added capability to control power at the outlet level.
Features:
– Users can remotely turn on/off or reboot individual outlets, facilitating effective management of equipment. – Useful in preventing accidental overloads and managing power usage across multiple devices.

Intelligent Rack PDU

Description: This category encompasses metered, monitored, and switched PDUs that include advanced features for managing power distribution intelligently.
Features:
– Capabilities include remote access, energy management, and detailed reporting on energy consumption trends.
– Helps in optimizing energy usage and reducing operational costs across the data center.

Why choose YOSUN data center pdu

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How to Choose the Server Rack and
Data Center PDU from YOSUN

PDUs come in varying lengths and mounting orientations. They also feature diverse configurations and capabilities. With so many possible combinations, selecting the optimal power distribution unit (PDU) for your server rack can be challenging. That’s why it’s crucial to carefully evaluate your requirements before making a decision. This data center PDU buying guide from YOSUN will help you choose the most suitable PDU for your cabinet.

Mounting Orientation
PDUs can be installed horizontally or vertically within the rack or enclosure.
– Horizontal PDUs are designed to fit the standard 19″ rack width. They typically measure 1U or 2U in height and can be mounted above, below, or between the IT devices in the rack.
– Vertical PDUs can be significantly longer, depending on the rack height. They are mounted to the upright rails or to dedicated mounting brackets in the 0U space at the back of the enclosure.
Vertical PDUs are often preferred because they offer more outlets and don’t consume equipment mounting space. However, horizontal PDUs can be advantageous when in-row UPSs are used, the overall rack power load is low, or there is insufficient space to mount the PDU at the rear of the cabinet without obstructing airflow.

Input and Output Power Requirements
While most North American office buildings use single-phase power, large commercial buildings and data centers frequently have three-phase power (single vs. 3-phase power). The type of PDU you choose depends on the power supplied to the racks and cabinets.
You also need to know the power consumption of the equipment in the rack. The maximum power consumption of each device should be printed on a placard on the back of the equipment or in the documentation. The power rating may be listed in volt-amps (VAs) or watts (W). Convert all to a common unit, add them up, and select a PDU with a higher power rating than the total.
In summary, the best PDU for your server rack will adequately accommodate your power supply (single or three-phase) as well as the power consumption of each device within the rack.

Type of Plug and Outlets
The PDU plug should match the input power source, and the cord should be long enough to reach the power source. Power cords are limited to 15 feet according to UL requirements. Universal PDUs have seven-pin connectors that support multiple types of input power cables, enabling you to use one PDU model across the IT environment and adapt it to the available input power in each facility.
It’s also important to determine the number and type of outlets required for the equipment in the rack. IEC C13 outlets are the most common, but servers and other types of IT equipment may have different types of plugs. It’s a good idea to have a few extra outlets to accommodate future growth — as long as you don’t overload the PDU. Locking outlets prevent accidental disconnects.

Other Features
Basic PDUs simply deliver power to the IT equipment in the rack or cabinet. However, there are also PDUs that provide valuable features that can simplify administration and power management. When choosing the best PDU for your server rack, consider the following configuration options:
– Metered PDUs display power consumption and other metrics to help you optimize power usage and reduce the risk of overloading.
– Monitored PDUs connect to the network, allowing you to monitor various metrics remotely and receive alerts.
– Switched PDUs allow you to turn individual or multiple outlets on and off to power cycle equipment remotely.

Data Center PDUs Support the Growth of
Cloud Services and IoT

Supporting Cloud Services

1. Scalability:
As businesses transition to cloud-based services, the demand for scalable power solutions grows. Intelligent PDUs support this by allowing for easy integration with existing systems and providing insights that help in planning future expansions or modifications.
2. Efficiency Metrics:
Data center PDUs contribute to optimizing performance metrics such as Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE), which measures how efficiently a data center uses energy. By providing detailed reports on power consumption, cabinet PDUs help organizations reduce energy waste and improve overall operational efficiency.

Addressing IoT Demands

1. Increased Device Connectivity: The proliferation of IoT devices necessitates robust power management solutions. Intelligent PDUs can handle the increased load from numerous connected devices while ensuring stable power delivery, thereby supporting the operational needs of IoT applications.
2. Environmental Monitoring: Many smart PDUs come equipped with environmental sensors that monitor conditions such as temperature and humidity. This feature is particularly beneficial for IoT deployments that require specific environmental conditions to function optimally.

data center PDU