What is a Smart PDU, the Difference Between a Basic and Smart PDU

What is a Smart PDU?

Smart PDU (Power Distribution Unit) is a power management device used in data centers and computer rooms. It not only supplies power to IT equipment in data centers, distributes power to various servers and network devices, but also provides remote monitoring, management, and control of power usage. Smart PDUs can support smarter IT infrastructure to extend uptime, ensure maximum availability, improve efficiency, and reduce power consumption.

Types of Intelligent PDU

Intelligent PDUs can be classified into several types based on their different functions and application scenarios. The following are common types of intelligent PDUs and their characteristics.

Metered PDU

Metered PDU typically has two types: metered inlet PDU and metered outlet PDU. Metered inlet PDU is mainly used to monitor the power parameters entering the equipment from the power source, while metered outlet PDU is used to monitor the power usage of various output sockets, which can be displayed and recorded locally or integrated with other monitoring systems. 

Switched PDU

Switched PDU has the ability to remotely control switches, and administrators can remotely control the on/off status of sockets through network interfaces or management software, achieving remote restart, scheduled switching, and power distribution of devices. It provides flexible, secure, and efficient power management solutions for data centers.

Monitored PDU

Monitored PDU adds remote monitoring function on the basis of metered PDU. In addition to real-time monitoring of power parameters, power parameters can also be remotely monitored through network interfaces or management software, and alarm notifications and reports can be provided. It provides users with visualization of electricity usage, helps optimize resource allocation, and enhances equipment reliability and safety.

• Know more smart PDU types: What is Rack PDU and Types

Functions of Smart PDUs

Smart PDUs have a range of advanced features designed to optimize power distribution, monitoring and management. The following are some main functions of smart PDUs:

Power Distribution

Intelligent PDU can distribute the power from the main power source to multiple sockets and support the connection of multiple devices.

Real-time Monitoring

Smaart PDU can monitor key power parameters such as current, voltage, power, and energy consumption in real time, and provide real-time data feedback to help users understand the distribution of power consumption and optimize energy accordingly.

Remote Management

Remote access and management functions can be provided through network interfaces or management software. Users can remotely manage and control the power status of devices, enabling remote restarts, timed switches, and other functions.

Alarm Function

Support setting threshold alarms, automatically triggering alarms in abnormal situations to prevent device overload or failure.

Energy Management

Smart PDUs can record and report historical data on electricity consumption, helping to analyze energy usage patterns and develop effective energy-saving strategies based on these analyses. In addition, it can automatically adjust power distribution according to preset strategies to achieve optimized energy utilization and conservation.

Difference Between a Basic and Smart PDU

When selecting PDUs for data center equipment, you may consider choosing smart PDUs or basic PDUs. Firstly, let’s take a look at the main differences between them.

Based on the above introduction, it is recommended that you consider the above factors comprehensively when choosing a PDU to assess your own needs and budget. If your needs are relatively simple, a basic PDU can meet the basic functions; on the contrary, if your environment has high requirements for power management and has plans for future expansion, intelligent PDU will be a more ideal choice.

للتواصل مع Gcables

Gcabling has a professional portfolio of cabinet PDU products and an experienced technical team. Our PDU products are made of high-quality raw materials and has undergone strict third-party inspection, obtaining CE and RoHS certificates. Whether you need a basic rack PDU or a more professional intelligent PDU, we can provide you with the best products and services. Please feel free to contact us at any time.