Best 19 Power Distribution Unit Options for IT and Networking
Choosing the right 19-inch power distribution unit (PDU) helps optimize rack space, protect equipment, and simplify cable management in IT closets, server rooms, and AV setups. This guide reviews five reliable 19″ PDUs, highlighting space efficiency, outlets, safety features, and surge protection. Read on to compare options from Tecmojo, Pyle, ThePoEstore, and Cablix, with practical insights for network switches, servers, and AV gear.
| Product | Outlets | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Tecmojo 1U Rack Mount 19 Outlet PDU | 16 rear-facing, 3 front-facing | Compact 1U rack, built-in circuit breaker |
| Pyle 19 Outlet 1U Rackmount PDU (PCO860) | 3 front, 16 rear; USB port | Versatile mounting; 15A circuit protection |
| ThePoEstore 1U PDU (12-Outlet) | 12 outlets (2 front, 10 rear) | High surge protection; 3600 joules |
| Pyle-Pro PCO865 | 3 front, 16 rear; 4 USB ports | Detachable mounting; 15A protection |
| Tecmojo 1U Rack-Mount 8-Outlet | 8 outlets | Compact, 12A distribution; LED indicators |
Tecmojo 1U 19 Outlet PDU
The Tecmojo 1U Rack Mount PDU offers a compact 19-inch rack footprint with 16 rear-facing outlets and three front-facing outlets, enabling flexible device placement within cabinets. It includes four USB ports for quick power to peripherals and a built-in 12-amp circuit breaker to protect connected equipment from overloads. This configuration suits IT closets and AV racks where space is at a premium but device variety remains high. The combination of front and rear outlets helps organize cables and reduces strain on power cords while maintaining easy access to critical devices.
Key features include space-efficient 1U mounting, USB power for accessory devices, and circuit protection. The design supports servers, switches, media players, and other network gear, delivering reliable, centralized power management for small to medium racks.
Pyle 19 Outlet 1U Rackmount PDU (PCO860)
The Pyle PCO860 combines a detachable 1U rack design with 19 outlets and an integrated USB port for convenient device charging. It provides 3 front outlets and 16 rear outlets to accommodate space for adapters and transformers, while a built-in 15-amp circuit breaker protects equipment from overloads. The detachable mounting flanges support rack-mount, wall-mount, and under-counter installations, delivering versatile placement options for telecom closets, data centers, or multimedia setups.
This Pyle model emphasizes safety through a switched front panel AC outlet and a plastic-covered power switch. The robust build and wide rear-outlet spacing help manage bulky power supplies and ensure stable power distribution across IT gear and AV devices.
ThePoEstore 1U 12-Outlet PDU
ThePoEstore PDU delivers twelve NEMA 5-15R outlets across a 1U horizontal rackmount, designed for servers, network gear, and AV equipment. With a 120V/20A input and a 16-foot, 12 AWG power cord, this unit provides substantial reach for larger racks. It includes 3600 joules of surge protection and 10KA of lightning protection to shield critical equipment, while LED indicators show power status and fault conditions. Front and rear outlet distribution enables flexible cabling for dense installations.
The 1U footprint keeps rack space efficient, and the surge protection aligns with environments requiring robust power conditioning for servers and telecom hardware. This model is well-suited for data centers and security systems that benefit from reliable, centralized power management with clear status indicators.
Pyle 19 Outlet 1U PDU (PCO865)
The Pyle PCO865 extends Pyle’s 1U rack-mount design with four USB ports in addition to 19 total outlets. It features detachable mounting flanges for flexible installation in rack, wall, or under-counter setups and a 15-amp circuit breaker to guard against overloads. The front panel includes a switched AC outlet and a plastic-covered power switch for added safety. The rear outlets accommodate bulky plugs, and the USB ports provide simultaneous charging for peripherals like laptops, tablets, and other USB-powered devices.
Designed for compact IT racks and multimedia deployments, this PDU supports clean cable management and reliable distribution while keeping essential devices powered and protected during peak usage and maintenance windows.
Tecmojo 1U Rack-Mount 8-Outlet PDU
This Tecmojo 1U horizontal PDU provides eight NEMA 5-15R outlets and a dedicated 12A distribution channel, making it suitable for IT racks and small server rooms. It includes LED indicators to monitor power, earth grounding, and lightning protection status, helping administrators quickly verify power health. The compact 1U profile maximizes rack density while still offering essential protection for critical equipment in networked environments.
With a slim 1U footprint and clear status indicators, this unit is a practical choice for edge racks, network closets, and small data centers where space is limited but dependable power distribution is needed for servers, network gear, and telecom hardware.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Outlets and layout: Count front and rear outlets and assess how you will route cables. More rear outlets support cleaner cabling for dense racks.
- Circuit protection: Check breaker amperage (commonly 15A or 12A) to prevent overloads. A higher rating is useful for power-hungry devices, but ensure compatibility with your electrical system.
- Surge and surge-related protection: For network gear and servers, surge protection (joules and lightning protection) helps mitigate voltage spikes from outages or nearby equipment.
- Form factor and mounting: 1U rack PDUs save space, but verify mounting compatibility with your cabinet’s depth, rails, and side clearance.
- USB ports: Integrated USB charging can simplify powering peripherals without using wall outlets. Consider how many ports you actually need.
- Safety features: Front-panel switches, covers, and clearly labeled indicators enhance operational safety during maintenance or reconfiguration.
- Build quality and certification: Look for UL-listed or equivalent safety certifications to ensure compliance and reliability in enterprise settings.
- Cable management: Some PDUs offer better spacing and cable routing options for bulky adapters and transformers, reducing voltage drop risks.