Data Center Power Distribution Box Size and Price

Data center power distribution boxes (PDUs) vary widely in size and price depending on capacity, features, and customization options.

Dimensions and Form Factors

• Rack-mounted PDUs (rPDUs): Typically designed to fit standard server racks (19-inch width). Heights range from 1U to 3U (1.75–5.25 inches), with depths around 12–18 inches. Eaton's rack PDUs offer compact, high-density designs suitable for small to large racks, including managed and metered options for outlet-level control and monitoring .
• Freestanding or floor-standing PDUs: These units are larger, often dual-door ventilated cabinets, with heights from 42U to 48U (approximately 6–7 feet), widths around 24–36 inches, and depths of 36–48 inches. PwrQ PDUs are examples of freestanding units rated from 150 kVA to over 1 MVA, designed for medium to large data centers .
• Custom PDUs: Delta and other manufacturers offer fully customizable PDUs, where dimensions are tailored to the data center layout, power requirements, and interface configurations. These can include epoxy-cast resin busways for compact, high-reliability installations .

Power Capacity

• PDUs range from 225 kVA to 1.2 MVA for large-scale units, while rack-mounted units typically handle up to 30–60 kVA per rack depending on density and redundancy requirements .
• Features may include real-time monitoring, metered outlets, switched outlets, and remote management for load balancing and fault prevention.

Price Considerations

• Rack-mounted PDUs: Prices generally range from $200 to $2,000 per unit depending on features such as metering, switching, and monitoring capabilities.
• Freestanding PDUs: Larger, high-capacity units can cost $5,000 to $50,000 or more, especially for custom configurations with high kVA ratings, advanced monitoring, and redundancy options.
• Customization: Fully tailored PDUs with specific voltage, interface types, and monitoring features will increase cost and require direct consultation with manufacturers like Delta or PwrQ .

Additional Notes

• Installation, maintenance, and service plans can affect total cost. Many manufacturers offer preventive maintenance and on-site support packages at intervals of 6, 12, or 18 months .
• When planning a data center, consider space, cooling, and accessibility for PDUs, as well as future scalability for additional racks or higher power loads. For precise pricing and exact dimensions, it is recommended to contact the manufacturer or authorized distributor with your specific power and layout requirements. This ensures the PDU meets your data center's operational and safety standards.