APC PDUs - Rack Mounted - Refurbished, Used and New

APC rack PDU types and models

Which APC PDU do I need?

Start with the feed: the input voltage, amperage and receptacle on the rack circuit decide the PDU, and the outlets follow from the voltage. A 120V circuit gives you NEMA outlets: 5-15R and 5-20R are the familiar three-prong receptacles, and the PDU plugs in with a straight 5-15P or 5-20P or, for a 30A circuit, a twist-lock L5-30P. A 208V or 230V circuit gives you IEC outlets: C13 outlets accept the C14 cord on nearly every server and switch, and the larger C19 outlets accept the C20 cord on blade chassis, big storage arrays and high-wattage power supplies; the PDU input is usually a twist-lock L6-20P or L6-30P. Then count outlets with 20 percent spare, add up the load so it stays under 80 percent of the circuit rating, and pick Metered if you only need load readings and Switched if you want to reboot a hung server remotely or lock unused outlets off.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a 208V PDU on a 120V circuit?
No. The input plug, the outlet type and the internal metering are built for one voltage range. Match the PDU to the circuit and receptacle you have, or have an electrician change the circuit first.

Do I need a separate network card to manage a Switched PDU?
No. Metered and Switched rack PDUs have the network management interface built in, with an RJ45 port and a serial console port. Each unit is reset to factory defaults before it ships. The AP9631 card on this page is for an APC UPS, not for a PDU.

How is a Metered-by-Outlet PDU different from a Metered one?
A Metered PDU reports the total load on the unit or per bank. A Metered-by-Outlet PDU reports current and energy for every outlet, which lets you charge back power by server or find the one drawing more than it should.

NetworkTigers has sold enterprise network equipment since 1996. Every PDU and transfer switch carries the NetworkTigers 365-day warranty. Need a quantity or a specific outlet layout? Ask us for a quote.