Generally speaking, most data center managers would agree that it is better to have the IT equipment in their care working properly all of the time. If the equipment isn’t receiving power, then, it can be assumed, there is a problem. Any steps that can be taken to ensure uninterrupted operability with minimal oversight is worth consideration.
One decision that can be made in advance to ensure continuity of power is selecting power distribution units (PDUs) with breakers rather than fuses.
Why Breakers Are Better Than Fuses
All intelligent PDUs that draw greater than 20A of current, typically have two or more branch circuits protected by an over-current protection fuse or breaker. It is highly recommended that a breaker is chosen over a fuse. Choosing a breaker offers several advantages:
- Ease of Reset: Breakers can simply be reset when tripped, while fuses must be replaced, leaving power out until the replacement is completed.
- Lower MTTR (Mean Time to Repair): Replacing a fuse requires the entire PDU to be powered down and often involves a licensed electrician, leading to extended downtime.
By selecting PDUs with breakers, you can reduce repair times and ensure consistent power to your equipment.
Understanding Breaker Types
Breaker type is another important consideration. Not all breakers are created equal. The three main types include:
- Thermal Breakers: Sensitive to heat and more prone to nuisance tripping.
- Magnetic Breakers: Use electromagnetic forces to trip but can still be affected by temperature changes.
- Magnetic-Hydraulic Breakers: The best option for high-density environments, as they are less susceptible to temperature fluctuations and minimize nuisance tripping.
For optimal performance, magnetic-hydraulic breakers with a 100-percent rating are recommended, as they handle minor overload situations more effectively.
Key Features of Magnetic-Hydraulic Breakers
To handle minor overload situations, opt for magnetic-hydraulic breakers with a 100-percent rating. Other important capabilities related to branch over-current protection include:
- Slim profile breakers to ensure minimal interference with airflow
- UL 489 listed breakers for safety and reliability
- Ability to constantly monitor the status of the circuit breaker or fuse irrespective of the type of PDU selected
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Need Assistance with Your Power Strategy?
Whether you require guidance on selecting the right PDU or need a comprehensive on-site assessment from one of our field engineers, CPI’s technical team is ready to help support your goals.
- Free Online Tools: Use resources like the to simplify your decision-making process.
- On-Site Assessment: to schedule a visit with one of our field engineers, who can provide tailored recommendations based on your specific needs.