Power strips and PDUs

This category contains multi-socket power strips and rack power distribution units (PDUs) for desks, AV set-ups, server cupboards and data racks. Most of our range of over 80 models comes from BACHMANN, with further options from APC, CyberPower, ROLINE and HP Enterprise.

How to choose a power strip or PDU

Strip or rack PDU. A power strip suits desks, TV and AV cabinets and workbenches. A rack PDU is built to mount in a 19-inch rack, either vertically beside the equipment or horizontally in 1U of rack space, and is the sensible choice for servers, switches and storage.

Outlet type and number. Count the devices you plug in today and add a few spare outlets. Rack PDUs normally use IEC C13 outlets for most IT equipment and C19 for larger servers, while desk strips use household sockets, so check the socket type against your plugs before ordering. Bulky power adaptors need extra space between sockets.

Load rating. Add up the power draw of everything you connect and stay comfortably below the rated current of the strip or PDU, commonly 10 A or 16 A. A 16 A unit on 230 V mains can carry roughly 3.6 kW in total, but high-draw appliances such as heaters do not belong on a multi-socket strip.

Protection and switching. Surge protection, a main on/off switch and a circuit breaker add safety for computers and AV equipment. Some PDUs also offer metering or remote switching, which helps when equipment sits in a room nobody visits often. Check each product listing for these features rather than assuming them.

Cable length and mounting. Measure the distance from the wall socket to the equipment and allow for the route the cable will take. Rack PDUs need a rack of suitable depth and the right mounting hardware, while desk and wall-mount strips need fixing points or a clamp.

Brands in our range of power strips and PDUs

• BACHMANN: known for power strips, desk and furniture socket outlets and cable management, and it accounts for most of the products in this category.
• APC and CyberPower: both are best known for UPS units and also make rack PDUs and surge-protected strips for IT use.
• HP Enterprise: a server and data centre vendor that offers rack PDUs alongside its server and rack equipment.

Also in our range: ROLINE.

Power strips and PDUs: common questions

What is a PDU and how does it differ from a power strip?

A PDU (power distribution unit) is a device that shares mains power between several pieces of equipment, usually inside a server rack. Compared with a household power strip, it is designed for rack mounting and often uses IEC C13 or C19 outlets. Some models add metering, switching or monitoring.

Can I plug one power strip into another?

No, daisy-chaining power strips is not recommended. The first strip carries the combined load of everything behind it and can overheat or trip. Choose one strip with enough outlets, or a unit with a higher current rating.

Does a power strip protect against surges?

Only if the product says it has surge protection. A basic power strip simply adds sockets and offers no protection against voltage spikes. Surge protection components also wear over time, and neither a strip nor a PDU keeps equipment running during a power cut, which is the job of a UPS.

How many devices can I connect to one power strip?

The limit is the total load, not the number of outlets. Add up the wattage of your devices and compare it with the rating on the strip, for example about 3.6 kW for a 16 A unit on 230 V. Leave a margin so the strip is not running at its maximum all day.