Now, more than ever, there is an increased demand to set up data centers that are effective and efficient. An important factor which determines the efficiency of a data center is its power distribution units, and how they power the servers and devices in a data center. Power distribution units are power strips that distribute and control power in a data center. While this may sound simple, the functions of PDUs have evolved over the years.
Importance of PDU in Data Center:
Power Usage Efficiency: In order to calculate PUE, it's necessary to take power readings at various points along with power chain. First, it requires to monitor the power consumption of the whole data center including all IT and non-IT loads (lights, cooling etc). It's advisable to monitor at rack/PDU level in order to know the IT load power consumption. This only can be done with the help of PDU.
Monitoring system: In order to optimize the data center power consumption, you need to have the ability to monitor not only power but the whole data center environment. This will allow you to manage the environmental conditions to suit your particular equipment requirements. Combine this data with effective power monitoring and you can fine-tune the data center to run at its most optimal level maximizing your Power Usage Efficiency (PUE).
Remote switching: With the help of smart PDUs, remote switching made it easy. Remote switching that enables individual outlet control for remotely switching the power on and off. It's an ideal feature for large data centers that have hundreds or thousands of server cabinets. The remote switching is used to control power flows without having to physically touch each and every power strip.
Environmental monitoring: Environmental monitoring from data gathered by sensors, capable of transmitting alerts when preset thresholds are breached. This process allows managers to prevent equipment from overheating and breaking down. This feature only can be done with the blessings of smart PDUs.
Prevention of wastage power: Data center servers run non-stop, even when they are not in use. One of the important features of smart PDUs is, it can identify which devices should be turned off in order to eliminate power waste by monitoring input current.
Alternating phase power distribution: Load balancing within the data center is necessary for reasons related to safety and power efficiency and is traditionally performed manually. The use of alternating phase power distribution simplifies this process and this process only can be done with the help of smart PDUs.
Minimize downtime: PDUs are available with a variety of features that helps to minimize downtime. With a metered PDU, real-time local reporting of power consumption is possible in order to avoid potential overloads. With an advanced PDU, its possible to do the systems back up and running quickly from a remote location without having to travel to the site. An advanced PDU will help to keep track of what is happening at a branch location outside of normal business hours. Another advantage of advanced PDU is the ability to configure or set threshold value of voltage and current, so it doesn't get affected with the over-current or over-voltage. For example, an advanced PDU connected to a UPS system can be programmed to turn off some of the non-critical loads plugged into the PDU during a power failure. This allows to power off the least-important equipment first while preserving battery backup power for mission-critical systems.
Based on different industry and requirement, EverExceed also have a vast experience and knowledge on manufacturing modular data center, PDU for different applications. If you want to know more about EverExceed Data Center Solution, EverExceed Smart PDU contact EverExceed today. Our team is experienced enough to provide you best solution for your needs.
