When you’re responsible for running a critical operation, whether it’s a busy commercial site, a broadcast hub, or an industrial facility, reliable power isn’t something you leave to chance. That’s where the Power Distribution Unit, or PDU, steps in.
It might not be the flashiest bit of kit in your rack, but it’s one of the most important. And if you want a PDU that’s up to the task: smart, rugged, and built to last, APC by Schneider Electric is the brand to know.
So, What does a Power Distribution Unit Actually Do?
A Power Distribution Unit is exactly what it sounds like: a device that takes a single power input and splits it across multiple outputs. You plug one power source into the PDU, and it safely feeds electricity to all your connected devices, servers, switches, control panels, whatever you’re running.
But modern PDUs, especially from APC, go way beyond that. Today’s units are intelligent, remotely manageable systems that help you:
- Track real-time energy usage
- Manage individual devices from anywhere
- Avoid overloads and unbalanced loads
- Monitor environmental conditions
- Automate power control schedules
It’s not just about delivering power anymore, it’s about controlling it smartly and safely.
Why APC Leads the Pack When It Comes to PDUs
1. Unmatched Reliability
APC’s PDUs are built for performance in demanding environments. You get:
- High-grade materials and industrial construction
- Locking power cords to prevent disconnections
- Built-in circuit protection and surge control
- Models certified to the latest global safety standards
Whether your setup is in a factory, a data room, or a mobile unit, these PDUs are made to work and keep working.
2. A Model for Every Use Case
APC understands that one size doesn’t fit all, so their power distribution unit lineup is impressively broad. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| PDU Type | Key Features | Where It Fits Best |
|---|---|---|
| Basic PDUs | Power distribution without monitoring | Simple, low-risk installations |
| Metered PDUs | Aggregate current monitoring at the unit level | Environments where load visibility is key |
| Switched PDUs | Remote outlet control, individual device rebooting | Multi-site management, edge computing |
| Metered-by-Outlet PDUs | Tracks power use at each outlet individually | Accurate power reporting, departmental billing |
| Switched-by-Outlet PDUs | Combines full outlet-level control and metering | Maximum control and flexibility |
Whether you need simplicity or complete command over every outlet, APC’s got the right fit.
3. Remote Monitoring & Control
With APC’s switched and metered PDUs, you can:
- Reboot hung devices remotely (no more late-night site visits)
- Monitor energy consumption down to the outlet level
- Get alerts for issues like overloads, phase imbalance, or high temps
- Pull detailed usage reports for audits or capacity planning
And all of that feeds into EcoStruxure IT, Schneider Electric’s cloud-based monitoring platform. So even if you’re managing power across multiple sites, it’s all centralised and easy to oversee.
4. Flexible Mounting and Layouts
No matter your rack or cabinet layout, APC has something that’ll fit:
- 0U vertical PDUs for full-height racks with no loss of U-space
- 1U/2U horizontal models when vertical mounting isn’t possible
- Mixed C13, C19, IEC 309 and other outlet types to suit a range of devices
- Options for single-phase and three-phase input, across a variety of amperage ratings
This kind of flexibility means you’re not bending your setup to fit the PDU, it fits into yours.
Where APC Power Distribution Units Really Make a Difference
You’ll find APC PDUs being used in just about every industry where uptime and control matter:
- Healthcare – powering imaging machines, diagnostic tools, and hospital servers
- Retail – ensuring PoS systems, routers, and CCTV remain online at every branch
- Education – managing complex lab setups, IT suites, and lecture hall AV systems
- Manufacturing – feeding automated machinery, robotics, and data sensors
- Data centres & co-location – scaling up to thousands of monitored, managed outlets
- Events & broadcast – keeping AV, lighting, and comms systems powered without glitches
If it matters that your gear stays up and running, it matters that your power distribution unit is dependable.
A Power Distribution Unit might not grab headlines, but it’s the bit of kit that keeps everything else powered, protected, and performing at its best. And when it comes to choosing one that works as hard as you do, APC by Schneider Electric is the obvious choice.
Contact our experts today to discuss APC Solutions: https://exertisenterprise.com/apc-by-schneider-electric/
