Power Distribution Units (PDUs) are crucial for any business aiming to avoid unexpected power overloads. By providing advanced warnings, PDUs help prevent critical data center failures, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted operations. At Comms Express, we understand the importance of reliable power management.
That’s why we’ve curated a comprehensive list of the top ten PDUs available today. In this blog, our experts will delve into the features, benefits, and performance of each PDU, helping you make an informed decision for your business needs.
Join us as we count down the best PDUs, with a few extra recommendations for good measure!
10. APC Switched Rack APDU9953 PDU 32A
The APC APDU9953 Rack PDU 24-Way Vertical Rackmount PDU, with industry-leading reliability, manageability, and security, provides advanced load management plus on/off outlet level power cycling and sequencing control.
Key Features
- Output Connections
Twenty-one (21) IEC 60320 C13 outlets and three (3) IEC 60320 C19 outlets. - Input Connections
IEC 60309 32A 2 + E Commando Plug. - Single input power source
Supply power from one branch whip to multiple pieces of equipment, conveniently powering rack-mount equipment. Saves time and money during installation by using one branch whip and standard connections. - Rack-mountable
Vertical rackmountable design. Puts power where it is needed most – in the racks near the equipment. - 60°C Operating Temperature
Provides the ability to operate in a maximum ambient air temperature of 60°C (140°F) at full load ensuring reliability and availability even in today’s high density deployment. - EcoStruxure IT Ready
Seamless integration of one or many PDUs including alerts and control with EcoStruxure IT. Allows IT and data centre professionals to monitor and manage all of their critical IT infrastructure on-premise, in the cloud, and at the edge from anywhere.
9. APC Basic Rack AP6020A PDU
The APC AP6020A 13-Way 1U Vertical Rackmount PDU is a reliable rack power distribution device with thirteen (13) IEC 60320 C13 outlets, so you can power all your necessary devices.
Key Features
- Output Connections
Thirteen (13) IEC 60320 C13 outlets. - Input Connection
One (1) IEC 60320 C20 inlet. - Rack-Mountable
Puts power where it is needed most – in the racks near the equipment. - Single input power source
Supply power from one branch whip to multiple pieces of equipment, conveniently powering rack-mount equipment.
8. APC AP7921B Rack PDU Switched 1U 16A 208/230V 8C13
The APC AP7921B 8-Way 1U Horizontal/Vertical Rackmount Power Distribution Unit is a reliable Power Distribution Unit with eight (8) C13 outlets and a C20 plug. The rackmountable design allows you to place this PDU wherever you need it.
Key Features
- Rack-Mountable – Includes horizontal, vertical, and tool-less mount varieties. Puts power where it is needed most – in the racks near the equipment.
- Wide range of input and output connections – Product family includes a variety of input and output connections to distribute 120V, 208V, or 230V power to multiple outlets. Having a variety of inputs and outputs allow users to adapt to varying power requirements. APC offers units that bring up to 14.4kW using a single branch whip
7. APC Metered Rack AP8853 PDU 32A
The APC AP8853 42-Way Vertical Rackmount Metered PDU provides real-time remote monitoring of connected loads. User-defined alarms warn of potential circuit overloads before critical IT failures occur.
Key Features
- Output Connections:
- Six (6) IEC 60320 C19
- Thirty-six (36) IEC 60320 C13
- Nominal Output Voltage: 230V
- Nominal Input Voltage: 200V, 208V, 230V
- Input Connections: IEC 60309 32 A 2P + E
- Cord Length: 3 metres
6. Horizontal PDU With C19 Sockets
IEC C19 PDUs are commonly found in networking cabinets connecting directly to the targeted equipment. Many products use the C19 as it is an international standard and can deliver higher output than the IEC C13. Many UPS’s also use the C19 output.
Key Features
- IEC 320 C19 presentation
- Tough 1.5U aluminium extrusion
- 16A Power Output
- Shrouded switch with switch cover
- Vertical or Horizontal
- C20, 16A commando, or 32A commando options
5. 18 Way Mixed Socket PDU
These Mixed Socket PDU’s provide a space-saving solution where both IEC C13 UK Sockets are required.
All PDU’s are provided with a 3 Metre lead and Neon switch with a protective cover.
4. 6 12 And 16 Way PDU With IEC C13 Locking PDU Socket
Comms Express offers a range of PDU’s with IEC C13 and C19 sockets with an integrated locking feature.
Built within the socket housing, the integrated locking mechanism is protected against vibration & external elements that can easily dislodge external locking clips or guides.
This self-contained locking mechanism works with any standard IEC plug. The integrated locking socket uses internal mechanical apparatus that securely holds the ground pin of any IEC C14 or C20 connector and protects it from becoming accidentally disengaged.
Because the locking socket is compatible with any C14 or C20 plug, you won’t need to modify leads or connectors, nor will you be forced to buy specially equipped plugs to mate with the receptacles.
A locked plug is easily released by depressing the tab located on the socket. There is no need to buy any special tools, leads, or other equipment.
3. APC Rack AP7920B PDU Switched 1U 12A/208V 10A/230V 8C13
The APC AP7920B 8-Way 1U Rackmount Switched Power Distribution Unit provides advanced load monitoring combined with remote on/off switching control of individual outlets for power cycling, delayed power sequencing, and outlet use management.
Key Features
- Versatile design that can be mounted horizontally or vertically.
- Remotely manage outlets so users can turn outlets off that are not in use or recycle power to locked-up equipment.
- Local digital display provides warnings when the current draw is close to the maximum amperage draw of the strip.
- Configure the sequence in which power is turned on or off for each outlet.
- Network port sharing allows four rack PDUs to be connected using In and Out ports, so that only one network connection is necessary.
- Includes 2.4m power cord, terminated with a IEC C14 plug.
2. PDU With IEC C14 Sockets
A full comprehensive range of PDU’s with 13Amp UK Plug Sockets, and a range of optional features.
Features:
- External earth facility
- 3 metre input lead
- Compatible with all our cabinets
- Surge Protection options are available
- IEC C14 Sockets
1. PDU With UK 13Amp Plug Sockets
A full comprehensive range of PDU’s with 13Amp UK Plug Sockets, and a range of optional features are available at Comms Express.
Key Features:
- External earth facility
- 3 metre input lead
- Compatable with all our cabinets
- Surge Protection options available
So hopefully one of the above recommended PDU’s can meet your requirements, For questions around PDU Input Connectors, PDU Output Connectors or PDU’s please get in touch with one of the Comms Express team who will be more than happy to discuss your requirements with you.
