Vertiv Geist Switched Rack PDU - 1U Horizontal 20A, NEMA 5-20R, 5-20P

Elevate your data center power management with the Vertiv Geist Switched Rack PDU VP52100. This 1U horizontal PDU is purpose-built for reliable, agile power distribution in dense racks, delivering precise control, visibility, and protection for critical equipment. With 20A at 120V, it provides a robust 1.9 kW of capacity to support servers, switches, storage devices, network gear, and other rack-mounted equipment while helping you curb energy waste, prevent accidental overloads, and streamline IT operations. The VP52100 combines a compact footprint with intelligent features that cater to growing data centers, lab environments, and enterprise IT closets that demand both performance and simplicity.

• Outlet-level switching with input power monitoring: The VP52100 offers granular control by enabling you to switch individual outlets on or off, reducing the risk of overloads and unmanaged power draw. Real-time input power monitoring complements this capability, giving you immediate visibility into overall rack power usage and helping you make informed decisions to optimize energy efficiency and availability.
• High-density 12 x NEMA 5-20R receptacles: A dense 12-outlet layout provides ample capacity for a variety of devices in a single 1U footprint. Designed for compatibility with a broad range of IT gear, these NEMA 5-20R outlets enable you to connect essential servers, storage nodes, switches, PDUs, and other rack-mounted devices without crowding or needing additional power strips.
• Compact 1U horizontal form factor: The VP52100’s slim, 1U profile is optimized for 19-inch racks, maximizing available space while preserving airflow and cooling efficiency. This design makes it ideal for deployment in crowded data centers, executive IT rooms, or any environment where space is at a premium but dependable power distribution is non-negotiable.
• Reliable 120V, 20A power delivery with NEMA L5-20P input plug: The combination of a NEMA L5-20P input and a 120V, 20A rating ensures compatibility with common data center power feeds and wall outlets. With a total capacity of up to 1.9 kW, the VP52100 supports a wide range of devices while providing a stable, predictable power source essential for uptime and performance.
• Ease of management for proactive power control: Designed to simplify power governance, this PDU integrates smoothly into existing rack management workflows. Outlet-level control and monitoring empower IT teams to implement maintenance windows, apply power capping, and accelerate incident response—reducing downtime and enabling smarter, hands-on or remote management across the data center.

Technical Details of Vertiv Geist VP52100

• Model: VP52100 (Geist Switched Rack PDU)
• Form factor: 1U horizontal PDU
• Outlets: 12 x NEMA 5-20R
• Input plug: NEMA L5-20P, 120V
• Current rating: 20 A
• Power capacity: 1.9 kW (approx. 1,900 W)
• Monitoring: Input power monitoring
• Switching: Outlet-level switching
• Mounting: 19-inch rack compatible with standard installation hardware

How to install Vertiv Geist VP52100

• Prepare your rack and ensure there is adequate clearance around the unit for cooling and serviceability. Confirm that the rack is a standard 19-inch enclosure with enough vertical space to accommodate a 1U horizontal PDU in the desired location.
• Power down equipment or plan a maintenance window if you will be changing the configuration in an active rack. Gather the necessary mounting hardware and a compatible power source to ensure safe, code-compliant installation.
• Mount the VP52100 in the rack using the included hardware. Align the PDU with the rack rails, secure it firmly, and verify that it sits level and stable. Ensure that the outlets are oriented for convenient access to connected devices and that there is no obstruction to cable management behind the unit.
• Connect the PDU input to the facility power supply using the NEMA L5-20P plug. Use a suitable power cord or feeder that matches your data center’s electrical distribution scheme. Make sure the power source is consistent with local electrical codes and that the circuit can safely support up to 20 A continuous load.
• Route and connect devices to the 12 NEMA 5-20R outlets. Distribute loads evenly across outlets to promote balanced power usage and minimize hotspot risk. Label critical devices to simplify future power management actions and maintain clear cable organization.
• Power on the PDU and configure monitoring and outlet-switching settings through the built-in management interface. Establish appropriate access controls, set alert thresholds for current draw, and define any scheduling for critical workloads to automatically switch on or off as needed. Validate that each outlet responds to switch commands and that monitoring reports accurate power readings.
• Perform a post-installation check to verify system behavior under normal operating conditions. Confirm that the PDU maintains stable voltage, that outlets switch correctly, and that reported power metrics align with the actual load. If available, integrate with your rack management software or DCIM tool to centralize control and alerting.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the VP52100? The VP52100 is Vertiv Geist Switched Rack PDU, a 1U horizontal power distribution unit with outlet-level switching and input power monitoring designed to provide precise control and visibility in dense rack environments.
• How many outlets does it have? It features 12 NEMA 5-20R receptacles, offering flexible placement for a range of devices within a single 1U footprint.
• What is the input connection? The PDU uses a NEMA L5-20P input plug rated for 120V operation, compatible with standard 20A power feeds in many data centers.
• What is the power capacity? The VP52100 supports up to 1.9 kW of total power capacity, with a 20 A current rating at 120V, allowing reliable operation of rack equipment while maintaining headroom for peak loads.
• Does it support outlet-level switching? Yes. The PDU provides outlet-level switching to enable or disable individual outlets as needed, helping prevent accidental overloads and enabling targeted power control during maintenance or energy-saving initiatives.
• Is it easy to install in a standard rack? Yes. Its 1U horizontal form factor and standard 19-inch rack compatibility simplify installation. Proper mounting hardware and correct cable management ensure a clean, efficient rack integration.
• Can I monitor power usage? The VP52100 includes input power monitoring, giving visibility into overall rack power consumption and enabling proactive management of energy use and capacity planning.
• Is remote management possible? The VP52100 is designed for straightforward management within standard data center workflows. It supports basic management capabilities through its monitoring and switching features, and can be integrated with broader DCIM or IT management strategies as part of a comprehensive power and infrastructure monitoring plan.