Power-distribution unit monitors Web

-- EDN, 12/7/2000

A power-distribution unit from American Power Conversion allows IT managers to remotely reboot, control, and manage ac current draw and to set alarm thresholds at the outlet level, thus avoiding overload conditions that can cause downtime. The MasterSwitch VM is a vertical-mount unit that offers relay-controlled ac outlets that you can access via a Web page (HTTP) or by traditional communication protocols, such as SNMP, modem, or Telnet. By moving the power controller to the rear beam of the rack enclosure, the MasterSwitch VM offers a "zero-U" footprint in contrast with similar products that can occupy one or more "U" units (1.75 in.) of rack space. The 6-ft-high form factor of the power-distribution unit accommodates 16 spaced NEMA 5-15 outlets—eight switchable and eight always on. Current capability is 20A; the unit features a user-definable load sensor, so if the load current exceeds the threshold, users receive notification via audible and visual (LCD) alarms. You can daisy-chain an additional MasterSwitch expansion unit; you thus obtain as many as 16 additional outlets, which you can remotely control and monitor. Unit prices for the MasterSwitch and the expansion unit are $1099 and $699, respectively.

American Power Conversion, www.apcc.com.

—by Bill Travis