Alternating Phase PDU as a Solution to Three Power Distribution in Data Centers – Data Center Frontier

HDOT Cx PDU with Alternating-Phase. (Photo: Server Technology)

Three phase power is popular in data centers tominimize the costof the cables delivering that power.

And here are three main phase power principles and challenges. Thats according to a new report from Server Technology that asserts theprinciples of 3-phase power are not always well understood by theinstaller. This paper discusses the importanceof load balancing across phases andhow using PDUs having alternatingphase outlets simplifies the loadbalancing process.

Load balancing, according to the report,is critical in these applications for multiple reasons:

Good practice in the data center is to install rack mounted equipment sothat the current draw is similar on each branch. This is relatively easy if therack is filled with only one type of device, Server Technology states.

But often, this isnt the case.

According to the report, mixed devices such as switches, storage devices, blade servers anddifferent brands and types of 1U/2U/3U servers can create a crazy mesh ofpower cables in the back of the rack, potentially hindering airflow and increasing heat problems. And the move to higher density racks that demand more kilowatts of power are cause for even more complex PDUs but, as Server Technology points out, the power draw still must be evenly distributed across these branches.

Three-phase power distribution at the rack level traditionally meant that power was divided intoseparate branches. Load balancing and cabling can be difficult. Alternating phased power on aper-receptacle basis provides tangible benefits in the form of simplified cabling, better airflow, betterload balancing and greater efficiencies. Server Technology

That said, according to the report, asolution to these issues is to use an alternating phase PDU.

These speciallydesigned PDUs alternate the phased power on a per-outlet basis instead ofa per-branch basis. An example of these products can be seen below, Server Technology explains.

Download the new report, Alternating Phase A New Look at 3-Phase Power Distribution to further explore the challenges, solutions and opportunities for three phase power, used in datacenters to support high density ITapplications.

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Alternating Phase PDU as a Solution to Three Power Distribution in Data Centers - Data Center Frontier

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