What rating should I use to correctly select a PDU for my installation?

There are several factors to consider when selecting a Geist PDU to ensure that the PDU has sufficient capacity for the intended application. The three main factors to consider are (1) nameplate rating, (2) receptacle ratings, and (3) internal breaker configuration. NAMEPLATE: The nameplate rating marked on a Geist PDU is the intended operating voltage range and maximum operating input current. Nameplate ratings are based on both regulatory requirements and design factors and represent the continuous total current that the PDU will be able to deliver to a load. The PDU should not be installed in an application where the nameplate ratings are exceeded. RECEPTACLE: The PDU’s output power is connected to information technology equipment through either NEMA or IEC receptacles. The PDU should not be installed in a manner that will exceed the maximum current rating of any individual receptacle. For example, a NEMA 5-15R receptacle should not be loaded to over 15A regardless of the nameplate rating of the PDU it is installed in. INTERNAL BREAKERS: Geist’s PDUs can be equipped with internal circuit breakers that are used to protect the circuit in case of overload or earth fault conditions. For PDUs rated 12A or 16A, the circuit breakers are optional components that act as supplementary protectors. For PDUs rated higher than 16A, the circuit breakers are required components that provide primary overcurrent and earth fault protection for the PDU’s internal circuits. The PDU should not be connected to a load that will exceed the current rating of an internal breaker. For maximum protection against nuisance tripping, it is recommended that internal breakers are only loaded to 80% of the breaker current rating.