Unlocking Flexibility: Key Benefits of Universal Input Rack PDUs

Power rack infrastructure requirements used to be relatively static. However, like everything else in the data center, this is changing as the demand for AI and other high-density infrastructure grows. Power density requirements have increased exponentially, driving the need for adaptability, flexibility, and scalability.

As these AI-driven changes occur, data center designers and operators are rethinking nearly every detail, down to the rack PDUs' power cords and plugs. One innovation that saves data centers time and money while addressing requirements for adaptability, flexibility, and scalability is the Universal Input feature of rack PDUs.

In a recent installment of DCD>Talks, Zack Chauncy, Manager of Product Management for Legrand's Power, Access, and Control teams, discussed the uses and benefits of the rack PDU’s Universal Input. Legrand initially developed the Universal Input as a custom feature for a high-end cloud provider, as the provider mentioned that defining the power requirements for their global deployments was challenging. Therefore, it was difficult for them to determine the appropriate input power connection. As the Universal Input feature evolved, Legrand recently made it accessible to Server Technology PRO4X Rack PDU users as a feature upgrade.

How does the PDU’s Universal Input save time and money? 

A unique feature of Legrand’s Universal Input is its patented Smart Cord technology. It utilizes non-volatile memory that retains data even when a device is powered off. The simplicity of the Universal Input allows differently rated universal input cords to be attached to a single PDU based on a given deployment’s power requirements. The Smart Cord capability enables the PDU to dynamically update ratings and thresholds in the PDU’s web GUI based on the specific universal input cord connected to the PDU.

Without Smart Cord, a technician has to manually set ratings and thresholds for each new installation, which is time-consuming. The PDU’s Universal Input minimizes the time spent on deployment and installation instructions, saving both time and money. Overall, this feature simplifies the repurposing of PDUs across installations with varying power requirements.

In what other ways does Universal Input accelerate deployments? 

Hyperscale or enterprise data centers that house large-scale rack solutions typically stock and stage components upon receiving a work order. However, before technicians can assemble the solution, they often have to wait until the input power is specified for that specific deployment location. With Universal Input, Server Technology PRO4X Rack PDU users gain the flexibility to pre-assemble the cabinet with the critical devices already installed. When the solution arrives, all they need to do is install the appropriate Universal Input Cord based on the provided power drop. 

How does Universal Input enable users to adapt to data center changes? 

If a data center’s power requirements change over time, Universal Input allows users to easily connect a new universal input cord type while using the same PDU. When a new solution is installed, all thresholds are automatically updated in the user interface.

At colocation sites, this adaptability can assist colocation tenants in reducing their energy expenses. Colocation operators frequently bill customers not by power usage but by the type of power cord or power drop provided. With Universal Input, if users do not have high power requirements, they can install a lower-rated universal input cord and decrease their bill. If power density requirements increase, they can easily swap it out.

What are the Universal Input options for customers? 

Currently, Legrand offers Universal Input on Server Technology PRO4X Rack PDUs with capacities of up to 22 kW, featuring six branches or breakers on a given PDU. Eleven universal input cord variants support single-phase ratings of 200V to 240V, 30A to 60A, or three-phase cords with ratings of 200/415V and 30/60A. More options will be available soon.  

Click here for the full DCD>Talks with Zach Chauncy, or here to discover more about our universal input feature.