Power strips and PDUs (power distribution units) are multi-socket units that share one mains connection between several devices, from a home office desk to a server rack or network cabinet. They suit small businesses, IT rooms and anyone with more equipment than wall sockets. Our range includes Bachmann, CyberPower and Black Box.
How to choose a power strip or PDU
Desk strip or rack PDU. A desk or floor power strip is made for offices and workstations. A rackmount PDU is built to fit a 19-inch rack, usually along the side or in the rack's height, and keeps cabling tidy around servers, switches and storage. Check your rack's depth and free space before ordering.
Socket type and number. Count every device you need to connect and allow a few spare sockets for growth. Server equipment and many desktop power supplies use IEC C13 inlets, while other devices use standard wall-type plugs. Plug standards differ between Europe and South Africa, so confirm that the sockets match your plugs before buying, or plan for suitable adapters.
Load rating. Every unit has a maximum current, shown in amps. Add up the power draw of the devices you plan to connect and stay comfortably below that limit. As a rough guide, a 10 A unit on 230 V mains can supply about 2,300 W in total.
Protection and switching. Surge protection, an overload breaker and a master switch matter when you are protecting computers and network gear. Rack PDUs can also be metered, which shows the load, or switched, which lets you turn individual outlets on and off. Both are useful for equipment in a remote or unattended location.
Cable length and mounting. Measure the distance from the wall socket or UPS to the equipment. A cord that is too short pushes you towards extension cables, which defeats the purpose of a proper power strip.
Brands we carry
- Bachmann: Known for multi-socket power strips and power distribution units for offices and racks, and it accounts for most of the products in this category.
- CyberPower: Best known for UPS units and power protection, so its PDUs are a natural match for racks that already use a CyberPower UPS.
- Black Box: Specialises in network and IT infrastructure products, including cabling and rack equipment, which makes it a familiar name for server room fit-outs.
Power strips and PDUs: frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a power strip and a PDU?
A power strip is a general multi-socket extension, while a PDU is a distribution unit designed for IT equipment, usually rack mounted. PDUs normally carry higher current ratings and often offer IEC outlets, metering or remote switching. For a few desk devices a power strip is enough, but a rack of servers is better served by a PDU.
How many devices can I plug into one power strip?
The limit is the total power draw, not the number of sockets. Add up the wattage of every connected device and keep it below the unit's rated current multiplied by the mains voltage. Leaving some headroom protects the strip from running at its limit for long periods.
Can I connect a PDU to a UPS?
Yes, connecting a rack PDU to the output of a UPS is a common setup, as it spreads protected power across many devices. The combined load must stay within the UPS's rated capacity. Avoid plugging one power strip into another, as this makes overloading harder to spot.
Do I need a power strip with surge protection?
Surge protection is worth having when the strip powers computers, network equipment or storage, because voltage spikes can damage electronics. A basic strip without it only shares the supply. Note that surge protection wears down over time, so it does not replace a UPS where power cuts are a concern.
