Power distribution unit Rittal 7979.240 — Metered three-phase PDU 42 AC outlets (36×C13, 6×C19), 16 A, 400 V, IP20

Rittal 7979.240 is a metered three-phase power distribution unit (PDU) for IT racks and network cabinets. It delivers 42 AC outlets (36×C13 and 6×C19) and accepts an IEC 60309 mains connection for nominal 400 V operation at up to 16 A per unit, supporting a maximum combined output of approximately 11,000 W. The unit features an aluminium and plastic IP20 housing, LED indicators for power and status, per-phase energy measurement and network-capable secure communication for remote monitoring and centralized power management.

Advantages

This PDU provides precise per-phase metering with measurement accuracy of ±1% (kWh) to EN 62053-21, enabling reliable energy monitoring and billing or capacity planning. Colour-coded phase and fuse circuits simplify installation and identification. Integrated functions such as a real-time clock with replaceable battery, adjustable alarm thresholds for voltage, current and power, and an operating hours meter increase operational transparency. The unit supports secure communication via HTTPS/SSL/TLS and includes audible alarm capability via an integral electromagnetic buzzer.

Suitable for

• Data centre rack power distribution and metering
• Network cabinets and server racks requiring mixed C13/C19 outlets
• IT environments needing per-phase energy measurement and remote monitoring
• Environments where vertical, zero-U mounting is required

When it may not be suitable

This PDU uses an IP20-rated housing and is intended for indoor use within cabinets or racks; it is not suitable for dusty, wet or outdoor environments that require higher ingress protection. It supports a single IEC 60309 mains input and a 16 A nominal current; locations that require higher input currents, different mains connectors, or single-phase-only distribution may need a different model.

Key specifications

• Input type: IEC 60309 compatible mains connection
• Phases: Three-phase (3~)
• Nominal voltage: 400 V
• Nominal current: 16 A
• Maximum output power: up to ~11,000 W
• Outlets: 36 × C13 and 6 × C19
• Measurement accuracy: ±1% (kWh) to EN 62053-21
• Housing: aluminium/plastic, IP20
• Indicators: LED power and status; TFT display for metering/readout
• Audible alarm: integral electromagnetic buzzer
• Mounting: vertical/zero-U mounting compatible with rack systems
• Communications: HTTPS/SSL/TLS secure network communication
• Additional: integral real-time clock with replaceable battery; adjustable warning/alarm limits

How to use

Install the PDU vertically in the rack’s zero-U space or suitable mounting location, following rack manufacturer guidance for vertical mounting. Connect the IEC 60309 mains supply according to site electrical standards and observe the colour coding for phases and fuse circuits during connection. Use the front panel TFT and LED indicators to read per-phase measurements, set alarm thresholds and configure operating parameters. Integrate the PDU into network monitoring systems via its HTTPS/SSL/TLS interface for remote status, logged consumption and alerting.

What to consider before purchase

• Verify cabinet/rack compatibility for zero-U vertical mounting and available space
• Confirm mains connector type (IEC 60309) and that 16 A / 400 V three-phase supply meets site requirements
• Check that IP20 protection and indoor cabinet installation are suitable for your environment
• Ensure the mix of C13 and C19 outlets (36 C13, 6 C19) matches equipment power connectors
• Plan integration with existing monitoring systems and required secure communication protocols

Usage recommendations

For reliable operation, balance loads across phases where possible and set appropriate warning and alarm thresholds for current and power to avoid overloads. Replace the real-time clock battery according to the maintenance schedule to preserve accurate timestamping of energy data. Use secure network configurations (HTTPS/SSL/TLS) and restrict access to management interfaces to authorised personnel only.