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Introduction

This installation, administration and user’s guide provides background information and procedures for installing, configuring and maintaining the Cyclades® Power Management (PM) Intelligent Power Distribution Unit (IPDU) family.

The Cyclades PM IPDU enables remote power control of servers and network gear. When used in conjunction with DSR® switches or console servers, the PM IPDU delivers easier management capabilities and faster problem solving by integrating console/KVM access and power control into one single interface.

The following sections describe general features common to all PM IPDU models and point out specific features of certain units.

Features and Benefits

Alarms and monitoring

The PM IPDU delivers accurate, real-time global current monitoring of all connected devices via the user interface screen or locally through an LED digital display. Users have the ability to set a current alarm threshold that, once exceeded, will cause the PM IPDU to sound an alarm or send a notification message, or both.

Sequential power application

The PM IPDU incorporates a sequential power application feature that prevents all power outlet receptacles from turning on at once, eliminating the potential of current surges that could render the equipment inoperable. Together with the global current monitoring, the sequential power application feature lets users safely install more equipment on existing power circuits without the worry of current overloads.

Support for daisy chaining

The IPDU has a fixed number of power outlet receptacles, but with daisy chaining capabilities, users may increase capacity by connecting the control interfaces of several PM IPDUs in a series.

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Avocent PM IPDU Features and Benefits, Alarms and monitoring, Sequential power application, Support for daisy chaining

PM IPDU specifications

Avocent PM IPDU (Intelligent Power Distribution Unit) is a cutting-edge solution designed for efficient power management and monitoring in data centers and IT environments. These devices are essential for businesses aiming to optimize power consumption, enhance uptime, and improve overall operational efficiency.

One of the primary features of the Avocent PM IPDU is its ability to provide real-time monitoring of power usage at the outlet level. This granularity allows IT professionals to track the power consumption of individual devices and make informed decisions regarding resource allocation and load balancing. The device supports multiple power distribution configurations, making it versatile enough to suit a variety of setups.

Incorporating advanced technologies, the Avocent PM IPDU supports intelligent alerts and notifications, enabling proactive management of potential power-related issues. Users can configure customizable thresholds for power consumption, and the system will automatically send alerts if these thresholds are breached. This proactive approach helps in minimizing downtime and averting potential outages.

Another notable characteristic is the comprehensive remote management capabilities of the Avocent PM IPDU. Users can access the unit's management interface via a web-based portal, which provides intuitive dashboards displaying real-time data on power usage, temperature, and environmental conditions. This remote access feature is essential for IT teams managing distributed environments or multi-site operations, as it facilitates quick and effective responses to power concerns.

The Avocent PM IPDU also integrates seamlessly with existing management systems, offering compatibility with various standards and protocols. This interoperability ensures that organizations can leverage their current infrastructure while enhancing their power management capabilities. Additionally, the unit supports power metering and reporting features, enabling detailed analysis of energy consumption trends over time.

Furthermore, Avocent PM IPDU models come equipped with features such as outlet-level control, allowing IT administrators to perform remote power cycling, thus increasing operational efficiency and reducing the need for on-site visits. The units are designed with robust security features, including customizable user permissions and encryption protocols, ensuring that power management operations are protected from unauthorized access.

Overall, the Avocent PM IPDU is an essential tool for organizations striving to improve their power management practices. With its advanced monitoring, remote management capabilities, and robust security features, it is well-suited for modern data center environments where efficiency, reliability, and operational effectiveness are paramount.