10.5. HP Power Distribution Units (PDUs)

PDUs provide power to multiple objects from a single source. In a rack, the PDU distributes power to the servers, storage units, and other peripherals. Figure 10-12 shows a rack PDU.

Figure 10-12. Module PDUs in 0U and 1U configurations.

PDU systems (1) address issues of power distribution to components within the computer cabinet, (2) reduce the number of power cables coming into the cabinet, and (3) provide a level of power protection through a series of circuit breakers.

The architecture of the modular HP PDU line is designed for customers who want to maximize power distribution and space efficiency.

Modular PDUs consist of two essential building blocks. The control unit distributes single-phase input power into four single-phase branch outputs. Extension bars provide up to 32 outlets or receptacles.

HP offers a low-voltage model to connect to the HP low-voltage UPSs and the 16A model that connects to the HP high-voltage UPSs. The 16A model, with its detachable input power-cord feature, offers increased flexibility and adaptability by enabling customers to use country-specific input power cords.

For mission-critical environments with UPSs, HP offers a fault- tolerant dual-input PDU. This PDU automatically switches over to a secondary input source if the first source fails.

All PDUs ship with 1U/0U mounting brackets, which are required to mount the PDUs in HP Rack 10000 series units. The extension bars mount directly to the rack frame.

Benefits of the modular PDUs include the following:

• Increased number of outlet receptacles

• Modular design

• Superior cable management

• Flexible 1U/0U rack mounting options

• Easy accessibility to outlets

• Limited three-year warranty

For more information, refer to the HP UPS/PDU compatibility matrix at http://h30140.www3.hp.com/page/prodinfo.html.