Legrand introduces new Universal Input for data centres

Author: Simon Rowley

Legrand, a global specialist in electrical and digital building infrastructures, has announced its latest innovation supporting greater scalability and flexibility in its next-generation intelligent rack PDUs with a new optional Universal Input that accepts interchangeable input power cords. The company believes that this cutting-edge feature is set to transform how data centres manage power requirements with the PRO4X and PX4 PDU models (sold under Legrand brands, Server Technology and Raritan, respectively).

Compatible with PRO4X and PX4 PDU models, the Universal Input Cords (UICs) avoid the cost and complexity of mixing and matching different PDUs for worldwide installations. The Universal Input allows for quick adaptation to changing power requirements, significantly reducing both deployment times and costs. It supports interchangeable input cords in single- or three-phase input options (Delta or Wye), enabling a single PDU to be repurposed across projects in worldwide deployments with varying power needs.

The new feature further enhances the ability of PRO4X and PX4 PDUs to meet data centre operators’ power demands today while preparing them to address tomorrow’s rack power deployments. It also offers flexibility when power requirements for a specific installation are not clear. The Universal Input is designed to be ‘plug-and-play’, with the input automatically recognised when attached to the PDUs. This feature can be used in a variety of applications. For example, leveraging a rack PDU already equipped with the Universal Input can make it easy for cloud providers to deliver infrastructure solutions to customer facilities, especially when it’s difficult to get reliable information ahead of time on available power.

Joe DeLong, VP/General Manager of Legrand’s Data, Power, and Control Division, comments, “We are excited to bring this option to our intelligent rack PDUs. Universal Input is a game-changer for data centre managers operating globally or working within diverse electrical systems.

“As power needs evolve, simply swapping the input cord allows the PDU to meet new requirements without replacing the entire unit. This capability is invaluable for data centres dealing with unpredictable or evolving power specifications. Universal Input transforms the PRO4X and PX4 into universal PDUs, providing one PDU that meets all rack power applications.”

Other key features of the Universal Input include:

• 45-degree angled infeed is a one-size-fits-all feature that saves money and time
• Global flexibility for power types and input cords
• Unique keyed connector provides easy and safe cord installation
• Cord connector to PDU is reportedly the smallest form factor in the industry, ensuring the connection to the PDU is not in the way
• Patented Smart Cord functionality auto recognises cord ratings when input power cords are attached to the PDU
• Compatibility with any regional power infrastructure, allowing the PDU to be shipped to any location worldwide

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