Wandtung

Power Distribution

How to Choose a Data Center PDU

2026-02-18 · 6 min read

1. Match Voltage and Current to Your Circuit

Confirm the rated voltage and current of the upstream circuit (e.g. 200-250V/32A three-phase) and select a PDU rated to match, with margin for load growth.

2. Choose Mounting Format

Vertical (0U) mounting suits high outlet counts and deep racks; horizontal (1U-2U) mounting suits shallow racks or low outlet-count requirements.

3. Decide on Monitoring and Control

Basic PDUs suit non-critical loads with no reporting need; metered/monitored PDUs suit facilities tracking power usage; switched PDUs suit unattended or remote sites needing remote power-cycling.

4. Confirm Outlet Type

Match outlet type (IEC C13/C19, country-specific, or custom) to the power cords of the equipment that will be connected.

5. Plan for Redundancy

For dual-corded equipment, plan for A/B PDU feeds from independent power sources to support true redundancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

A basic PDU only distributes power. A metered PDU adds a local current/voltage display. A monitored PDU adds remote, network-based monitoring. A switched PDU adds remote outlet control on top of monitoring.

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