PDU Types: Basic vs Metered vs Switched
A basic PDU adds outlets, a metered PDU shows the load, a monitored PDU reports over the network, and a switched PDU turns outlets on and off remotely.
By Liam McCabeContributing writer.
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The short answer
A PDU (power distribution unit) takes power from one source, such as a wall circuit, a UPS or a generator, and spreads it to many outlets in an equipment rack. It does not make or clean up power; it delivers it. The types differ in how much they tell you and let you control:
| Type | Local load display | Remote monitoring | Remote outlet on/off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | No | No | No |
| Metered | Yes | No | No |
| Monitored | Yes | Yes | No |
| Switched | Yes | Yes | Yes |
This ladder follows CyberPower's PDU guide; other makers use similar names, but check the feature list of the exact model.
Basic PDU
A basic PDU is a rack-ready set of outlets. CyberPower's basic models leave out surge suppression and line filtering on purpose, so nothing in the strip can interrupt power to the equipment. Pick basic when you only need more outlets in the right place.
Metered PDU
A metered PDU adds a digital current meter on the unit. You can read the load at the rack and see when a circuit is close to its limit, which helps prevent an overload trip. There is no network connection, so someone has to look at the display. On Wiki Shopping, 55 PDUs are listed as metered.
Monitored PDU
A monitored PDU keeps the local meter and adds a network port. It reports voltage, frequency and load in real time and can send alerts when the load passes a threshold you set. This suits a rack you cannot visit every day.
Switched PDU
A switched PDU does everything a monitored one does and lets you turn single outlets, or all of them, on and off over the network, by hand or on a schedule. The main use is rebooting a frozen router or server without a trip to the site. A further step, switched metered by outlet, also measures each outlet on its own, which shows how much power each device draws.
Two more types
- Automatic transfer switch (ATS): takes two power sources and moves to the second one if the first fails, so gear with a single power cord stays on.
- Maintenance bypass: moves the load from the UPS to utility power so you can replace UPS batteries without shutting equipment down.
Mounting, plugs and current
Horizontal PDUs take 1U or 2U of space in a 19-inch rack. Vertical PDUs, called 0U, attach to the upright rails and leave the rack units free for equipment. On Wiki Shopping, 71 PDUs list 1U or 2U rack mounting and 29 list vertical 0U mounting.
Match the PDU's plug to your outlet. NEMA and IEC plug shapes differ by voltage and current, so a plug only fits a matching receptacle. CyberPower sells its rack PDUs with 15, 20 and 30 amp inputs; on Wiki Shopping, 142 PDUs list a 15 amp rating, 24 list 20 amps and 30 list 30 amps. Add up the watts or VA of your equipment first, and keep the total under what the circuit and the UPS can deliver.
How we count
Current rating, mounting and the metered feature are read from each PDU's store listing. PDUs that do not state a value are left out of that count. The counts change as listings are added or removed.
Shop by spec
PDUs
6 Outlets, 15 Current rating, 6 ft
- SURGE PROTECTOR POWER STRIP: Features 6-outlets and 900 joules of surge protection to guard your home, office, and small electronics against surges, spikes and line noise. The 6 foot extension cord connects to standard wall outlets.
- RELIABLE POWER SAFETY FEATURES: Lighted on/off switch offers one-touch control. 15A resettable breaker cuts power if protection fails. Diagnostic LED confirms protection. Fire-retardant ABS housing adds safety and durability.
- VERSATILE MOUNTING OPTIONS: Rear keyhole mounting slots allow placement on any flat surface, including walls, under desks, and more. The 6 foot extension cord reduces the amount of cable clutter, creating a cleaner environment.
- CERTIFIED POWER PROTECTION: Reliable surge protector is UL Certified (1363 & 1449) so you know that your devices are protected with industry-recognized safety standards. Filters out disruptive EMI / RFI line noise that can harm your devices.
- FULLY SUPPORTED: Protected by a Lifetime Limited Manufacturer's Warranty and a $20,000 Ultimate Connected Equipment insurance. To best support your purchase, Eaton's expert technical team is available via phone, web, or email to address any concerns.
9 Outlets, 15 Current rating, 19-inch rack (1U or 2U), 6 ft
- ADVANCED SURGE PROTECTION - This rack mount power strip offers 1800 joules surge protection and a built-in circuit breaker. It shields your equipment from spikes, ensuring safe, reliable performance. Perfect for professional and home AV setups
- MULTIPLE POWER OUTLET STRIP - With 9 outlets, this outlet power strip lets you manage devices independently. Each outlet is switch-controlled for flexible use. Ideal for server rooms, studios, or audio racks needing precise power management
- LED STATUS INDICATORS - Stay informed with LED lights that display power, ground, and surge status. This powerstrip provides instant feedback for safety and performance. Enjoy clean, stable energy delivery with confidence
- BUILT-IN NOISE FILTER - Designed with an integrated EMI/RFI noise filter, this power supply system minimizes interference and ensures clean, stable current. Safeguard sensitive audio/video gear for optimal clarity and performance
- HEAVY-DUTY POWERSTRIP - Built with a rugged 1U steel chassis and a power strip 6ft main cord for easy installation. Space-saving rotating flat plug improves cable management. Perfect for IT setups, labs, or professional sound systems
14 Outlets, 15 Current rating, Vertical (0U)
- DESIGNED FOR STANDARD IT RACKS – Vertical 0U form factor installs alongside rack-mounted equipment without consuming valuable rack units.
- SUPPORTS SERVERS, SWITCHES & UPS SYSTEMS – Distributes reliable power to rack-mounted IT and networking equipment through fourteen NEMA 5-15R outlets.
- OPTIMIZED FOR APC NETSHELTER ENCLOSURES – Supports APC's toolless mounting system when installed in compatible NetShelter racks.
- CHECK ENCLOSURE SIZE & MOUNTING OPTIONS – Not all racks support toolless installation. Shallow cabinets, wall-mount racks, and some third-party enclosures may require bracket mounting or may not provide sufficient clearance.
- MEASURE BEFORE BUYING – Ensure your rack provides adequate vertical mounting space and cable-routing clearance for a 0U vertical PDU installation.
14 Outlets, 30 Current rating, 19-inch rack (1U or 2U), Over 10 ft
- 5.8kW 208/240V Switched 30A PDU, 2U rackmount, Reversible housing
- LX Platform network interface enables remote control and monitoring
- Reports voltage, frequency and load level; Front-panel digital current meter
- 14 Switched outlets (8 C13, 6 C19) and 15ft./4.5m NEMA L6-30P input cord
- 2-year limited warranty