Vertiv Geist Switched Rack PDU - 1U Rack | 30A | 5-20R | L5-30P | Horizontal PDU

Power distribution is the heartbeat of every data center, server room, and edge deployment. The Vertiv Geist Switched Rack PDU is engineered to put control, visibility, and reliability at your fingertips. This 1U horizontal PDU delivers intelligent power management for critical IT equipment, helping you optimize energy use, maximize uptime, and simplify compliance in demanding environments. With a 30A input and 5-20R outlets, the Geist Switched Rack PDU is purpose-built for high-density racks, where every watt matters and every outage can impact service levels. Designed to integrate with Vertiv Geist software and standard network management practices, it provides granular outlet-level monitoring, remote control, and proactive alerting to keep your workloads running smoothly.

In modern data centers and server rooms, traditional power distribution struggles to keep pace with rising power density and the need for rapid problem resolution. The Geist Switched Rack PDU rises to the challenge by combining rugged hardware with intelligent software, delivering per-outlet visibility and control. IT teams can monitor voltage, current, and energy consumption at each outlet, enabling accurate capacity planning, chargeback accuracy, and operational transparency. The compact 1U footprint minimizes rack depth usage while preserving accessible cable management and serviceability. Whether you’re provisioning new gear, balancing loads for efficiency, or isolating a faulty device without disrupting the rest of the rack, this PDU provides the tools you need to manage power like a strategic asset.

The core advantage of a switched, managed PDU is the ability to act on information in real time. With outlet-level switching, you can remotely cycle power to individual devices, apply maintenance windows, and enforce power policies that protect critical services. The Geist platform also supports automated reporting and alerting, so data-center facilities teams receive timely notifications of abnormal energy use, voltage fluctuations, or circuit overloads. This capability not only reduces mean time to repair but also supports ongoing compliance with energy-management objectives and green initiatives. In short, the Vertiv Geist Switched Rack PDU turns power distribution from a passive element into an active, observable, and controllable component of your IT infrastructure.

Durability and safety are embedded in the design. The PDU is built to withstand the rigors of busy rack environments, with secure mounting, robust electrical connections, and clear labeling that simplifies installation and maintenance. The combination of a 1U height, standardized 19" rack compatibility, and the flexibility of 5-20R outlets ensures this PDU fits neatly into most deployments while delivering scalable power protection for servers, storage, networking devices, and other critical equipment. If uptime, energy visibility, and efficient power management are priorities, the Vertiv Geist Switched Rack PDU is a compelling solution that aligns with data-center-grade expectations and modern IT workflows.

Beyond basic power distribution, this PDU is designed with the modern workflow in mind. The ability to link energy data to your asset inventory, utilize per-outlet alarms for rapid fault isolation, and integrate with existing monitoring ecosystems makes it easier to support capacity planning, cost transparency, and operational excellence. The result is a resilient, intelligent power distribution strategy that scales with your infrastructure while delivering measurable improvements in efficiency and reliability.

• Per-outlet monitoring and control: Track real-time voltage, current, and power at every outlet, and selectively switch outlets on or off to isolate faults or manage workloads without affecting the entire rack.
• Remote management and alerting: Access the PDU through secure web interfaces or Geist software, receiving alerts for overcurrent, anomalies in energy use, or device faults to enable rapid response.
• Energy metering and reporting: Capture energy usage by outlet for accurate cost allocation, chargeback, and capacity planning, helping you optimize cooling and power strategies.
• Compact 1U horizontal design: Fits neatly in standard 19-inch racks, maximizing density while preserving cable management and serviceability for easy maintenance.
• Durable, safe construction: Engineered for data-center environments with industry-standard safety certifications, ensuring reliable operation in busy server rooms and edge deployments.

Technical Details of Vertiv Geist Switched Rack PDU

• Form factor: 1U horizontal rack-mount PDU designed for 19-inch racks.
• Input: L5-30P connector, 30A (typical for North American 125V systems).
• Output configuration: 5-20R outlets configured for convenient connection to IT gear.
• Monitoring and control: Outlet-level monitoring with remote switching and management via secure interfaces or Geist software.
• Networking: Network-enabled management (Ethernet) with standard management protocols for integration into existing monitoring ecosystems.
• Safety and compliance: Built to meet data-center safety expectations with robust electrical design and labeling for easy installation and maintenance.

how to install Vertiv Geist Switched Rack PDU

• Prepare the rack: Ensure the rack area is clear, clean, and has a stable power and network infrastructure. Verify that there is sufficient clearance for cable management and chassis ventilation.
• Mount the PDU: Align the PDU with the 19" rack rails and secure it on both sides using the provided screws. Confirm that the unit sits firmly and is level to prevent cable strain.
• Connect input power: Plug the L5-30P input connector into a suitable power source that matches the PDU’s 30A rating. Ensure the corresponding circuit breaker is sized to handle the anticipated load.
• Connect IT devices: Plug servers, storage, and networking gear into the 5-20R outlets. Distribute loads to maintain balanced power across outlets and avoid overloading any single circuit.
• Configure management: Connect the PDU’s network interface to your management network. Access the web UI or Geist software to enable per-outlet monitoring, set up alerts, and configure access controls.
• Validate operation: Power on equipment and verify that per-outlet readings appear in the management interface. Test switching operations for individual outlets and confirm alerting is functioning as intended.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the Vertiv Geist Switched Rack PDU designed for? It is designed to provide intelligent power distribution for 1U, horizontal rack deployments, delivering outlet-level monitoring, remote control, and energy reporting for data centers, server rooms, and edge facilities.
• How many outlets does this PDU have? The model is described with 5-20R outlets, offering multiple receptacles suitable for common IT gear within a 1U form factor. Outlet count and configuration may vary by SKU, so verify the exact specification for your unit.
• Can I monitor energy usage per outlet? Yes. The Geist Switched Rack PDU offers outlet-level metering and monitoring to support accurate energy management, chargeback, and capacity planning.
• How do I manage and configure the PDU? Management is performed through a secure web interface or integrated Geist software. You can enable per-outlet control, set alerts, export energy data, and integrate with existing monitoring ecosystems.
• Is the PDU compatible with standard data-center practices? Yes. It is designed for 19" racks, supports common data-center power distribution workflows, and provides safety-conscious installation with appropriate labeling and certifications where applicable.