Power Distribution The Intelligent Way

Today's mains distribution units (MDUs) offer much more than simple distribution of power to rack based equipment. As well as distributing power neatly in minimum space, a modern MDU will also monitor key electrical parameters, and provide the facility to control or even shut down equipment as necessary.

Information from MDUs, when managed intelligently, can allow energy usage to be controlled, supporting the hard-pressed systems manager considering their environmental responsibilities.

The latest versions of Cardinal MDUs from dB Broadcast, the UK's leading systems integrator, feature early detection of faults as well as remote power monitoring for maximum operational efficiency; this includes monitoring of power, input voltage, energy (kWh), input current and power factor.

Web-based, the Cardinal range features an intuitive user interface, SNMP MIB based control and monitoring, e-mail messaging and alerts for conditions such as loss of input mains power, blown fuses and changed output status on or off. Software control allows monitoring and control of equipment, even at remote sites.

Dual input versions of the MDUs enable main and back-up power sources to be connected, with automatic switching to the back-up in the event of a power fail. Even non phase coherent inputs can be switched, and non-critical equipment can be switched off by shedding a number of MDU outputs. Users can reset the MDU internal control system without interrupting any of the controlled outputs.

"We are very pleased to offer the latest Cardinal range," says Tom Swan, Sales and Marketing Director of dB Broadcast. "The latest enhancements result from extensive contact with clients on real world applications."

This article is also available in the March edition of Broadcast Film & Video. Available here.