EC: Eaton ePDU G3 platform

Power — Energy, Power Protection: Eaton's customizable ePDU G3 models are rack power distribution units designed to streamline the power distribution needs of today's IT and data center managers with next-generation power monitoring capabilities. This is a Control Engineering 2015 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

By Control Engineering October 20, 2014

Today’s data center and IT managers are striving to balance technological innovation with functionality and cost. ePDU third generation (G3) combines these capabilities into one cohesive solutions portfolio, featuring a new patent-pending IEC outlet grip designed to eliminate the common, often costly, problem of plugs falling out of IEC outlets due to bumps or vibrations. The grip can help eliminate additional expenses related to cable trays or special power cords, which can increase rack power distribution unit (PDU) purchase costs up to 50%. The grip feature pairs with energy efficient technology aimed at reducing cooling costs and extending the life of hardware for added reliability. ePDU G3’s high operating temperature, up to 140 F, also helps meet new temperature guidelines for cooling set by ASHRAE.

ePDU G3 Metered Input models include a menu-driven pixel LCD for easy troubleshooting, and a hot-swap network meter module so that, in the unlikely event of a failure, users can replace the module without shutting down servers, allowing them to maintain business continuity and enhance serviceability.

Network connected ePDU G3 models can daisy chain with other PDUs, so that four devices can share one network port and IP address, reducing network connection costs by 75%. These models also allow users to auto discover and monitor multiple ePDUs through virtualization platforms like VMware vCenter Server with Eaton’s Intelligent Power Manager software.

New customization capabilities for ePDU G3, now available in the Americas, are designed for fast turnaround of outlet and cord plug configurations, providing flexibility for data centers and colocation facilities to quickly address specific power distribution needs. The ePDU G3 is built with a strong and lightweight aluminum chassis. The models provide a low-profile form factor compatible with a variety of rack enclosures and color-coded outlet sections that match corresponding circuit breakers for easy load balancing.

Eaton, https://powerquality.eaton.com