What Is a Power Distribution Unit (PDU)?
A Power Distribution Unit (PDU) is a device used to manage and distribute electrical power to multiple components within a data center, telecom room, industrial facility, or commercial building. PDUs are a critical element in any high-density power environment, ensuring reliable, organized, and safe delivery of power from a single source to racks, servers, or other equipment.
PDUs come in a variety of types, including basic, metered, monitored, and switched units, and are essential for load balancing, power monitoring, and remote power management. In modern facilities, PDUs help reduce downtime, support redundancy, and optimize energy efficiency.
How Does a PDU Work?
PDUs take power input from a primary electrical source and distribute it across multiple outputs. These units can be mounted in server racks (rack-mount PDUs) or installed on floors (floor-mount PDUs), depending on the facility layout and equipment type.
Advanced PDUs offer remote monitoring, individual outlet control, and environmental sensors to help IT and facility managers gain visibility into power usage and respond to overload risks in real time.
Where Are PDUs Used?
Power Distribution Units are commonly used in:
- Data Centers: For managing power to multiple servers and network equipment
- Telecom & Networking Rooms: To distribute power in structured cabling environments
- Industrial Facilities: For equipment racks, automation lines, and motor control
- Laboratories & Manufacturing: Where sensitive equipment or high load balancing is required
What Types of Cables Are Used With PDUs?
Choosing the right cable is critical to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance. Common cable types used with PDUs include:
- Power Supply Cords (SJT, SJTOOW, STOW): For connecting PDUs to wall power or UPS systems
- IEC C13/C14 and C19/C20 Cable Assemblies: Widely used in rack PDUs for IT equipment
- SOOW / SJOOW Portable Cord: Used in rugged environments for power distribution
- Tray Cable (TC/TC-ER): For distributing power in fixed, structured installations<
- Custom Assemblies: For rack-specific power configurations and load balancing
Key Considerations When Choosing Cable for PDUs
- Voltage Rating: Typically 125V, 250V, or 600V depending on the application
- Current Load: Ensure the cable’s ampacity matches the total power draw
- Connector Type: Match PDU outputs and equipment inputs (e.g., C13, NEMA, IEC
- Flexibility: Especially important in tight rack spaces or portable setups
- UL Listings & Certifications: UL 62, UL 817, NEC compliance for safety
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all PDUs require special cables?
No, but it’s important to match the power rating, plug type, and environment. In some industrial settings, flexible portable cords or tray-rated cables are essential.
What’s the difference between a PDU and a UPS?
A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) provides battery backup during power loss, while a PDU distributes power from the UPS or main supply to connected equipment.
Can I customize power cables for my PDU setup?
Yes. Allied Wire & Cable offers custom-length assemblies and connector configurations tailored to your specific rack or facility layout.
Need help selecting wire and cable for your PDUs?