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How to Remotely Manage Power & Reboot Devices with a 'Smart Fuse Panel' PDU

By Andrew Erickson

May 3, 2024

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Have you ever had to jump in your truck and drive hours to a site to toggle power or reboot jammed equipment? That's a waste of your time and labor budget. It also delays your problem resolution and potential puts your service uptime at risk.

IT and facility managers like you face a major challenge in keeping systems running smoothly. You must quickly address any issues that could cause downtime or malfunctions.

You can't afford to ignore this issue. You also can't afford to waste budget on your "best guess" solution without first learning the basics of remote site management.

So, what is the right solution to remotely reboot devices, avoid emergency trips for fuse replacement, and just generally monitor your remote sites more clearly? Let's dive in!

A "Smart Fuse Panel" PDU Saves Hours of Wasted Drive Time

The device you need should cover the functions of 3 devices in one:

  1. PDU (for switching power)
  2. Fuse Panel (replaces a standard fuse panel and saves space)
  3. RTU (handles basic remote site monitoring)

So, what exactly does that mean?

Fundamentally, the device that you need to solve the above problems is a "PDU" (Power Distribution Unit). This will allow you to remote turn on/off devices, including remotely rebooting them. That saves you from driving out to remote sites every time power must be switched.

Don't forget, however, that you want to go beyond a basic PDU for best functionality. A PDU that is also a "smart fuse panel" is a great way to eliminate extra purchasing (of both a standard fuse panel and a PDU). It also means that your PDU occupies the same single rack unit of physical space at the top of your rack where a fuse panel generally sits.

Furthermore, take advantage of the fact that you're buying an IP-enabled device already. It might as well have some basic alarm inputs to monitor your site. That tends to offer big budget savings vs. buying a totally separate RTU (where you're paying needlessly for another processor, power supply, metal chassis, etc.). RTU functionality will help pinpoint any potential threat and take care of problems remotely.

Featured Smart PDU: "Remote Power Switch AB6"

Remote Power Switch AB6
An example of a "smart fuse panel PDU", the Remote Power Switch AB6 made by DPS

The Remote Power Switch (RPS) AB6 is an advanced power distribution unit. It is designed to help with the remote management of DC-powered equipment. This device allows you to access equipment remotely.

With the RPS AB6 you can do all of the following without physically visiting the site:

  • Power cycle equipment
  • Switch on equipment
  • Turn off equipment

This PDU unit is particularly beneficial for distributed networks of servers, routers, switches, and other critical telecommunications equipment. The Remote Power Switch AB6 has several functions which make it a good choice. Some of these features include:

  • Remote management capabilities (web interface)
  • Monitoring and notifications (RTU functions)
  • Durability and reliability (proven design, telco-grade powder-coated aluminum chassis)
  • Installation and integration (sold by full-service manufacturer "DPS")
Remote power switch key features
The key features of the Remote Power Switch AB6 include remote management, monitoring, notifications, durability/reliability, and installation/integration services.

Remote Management Capabilities

As a PDU, the core function of the RPS AB6 G6 is its ability to manage power remotely. This capability is essential for decreasing downtime. Remote control helps address problems swiftly without the delay and expense of dispatching technicians to the site.

The RPS AB6 can handle issues remotely via a secure web browser interface. HTTPS (HTTP Secure) supports the interface for enhanced security. The device is prepared to address any problems that may arise. This includes situations like a server needing to be restarted or a router needing to be reset.

It features the ability to manage up to 12 outputs, with each output capable of handling large electrical loads.

Monitoring and Notifications

The RPS AB6 goes beyond simple power switching. It also provides thorough monitoring of power voltage levels, threshold alarms, and fuse alarms. This feature allows administrators like you to stay updated on power status and address any issues promptly before they escalate.

The power switch unit is capable of sending you SNMP traps and email notifications in response to power events. Events that would trigger a response include: when power is cycled on or off and when a fuse alarm is activated. This automated alert system keeps the relevant personnel informed in real-time, enabling immediate action.

The device allows remote access for up to ten different profiles, with individual usernames and passwords for security. The RPS also comes with the ability to define varying access levels for the different profiles.

Durability and Reliability

DPS designed the RPS AB6 for use in high-demand environments such as modern data centers and remote sites. This durability ensures that the RPS can consistently perform under various conditions without failure, providing a reliable tool for IT infrastructure management.

The device was also made to withstand extreme temperature and humidity conditions. This was strategic as it ensures an uninterrupted operation in any environment. Worrying about how the weather will affect your business will not be on your to do list with this RPS.

Installation and Integration

The installation of the RPS AB6 is straightforward, fitting seamlessly into standard 19" or 23" equipment racks. Its compact design does not occupy excessive space, making it ideal for environments where your space is limited. This is especially true because you're potentially eliminating the need for a separate RTU and fuse panel.

Integration with existing network management systems is also simplified through the use of standard network protocols like SNMP, including SNMPv3. This ensures that the RPS can be deployed quickly and efficiently without the need for extensive configuration.

This device has multiple real-world applications which make it effective for multiple different types of businesses and organizations. Some of these applications are data centers, telecommunication facilities, and remote sites.

Purpose-Built for Data Centers

Uptime is of great value in data centers, and for good reason. The RPS AB6 allows data center managers to remotely manage power to critical servers and network devices. This allows you to quickly resolve issues that could lead to costly downtime.

The ability to perform these tasks remotely also reduces the need for night-time or weekend staff and emergency overtime pay. This cuts the costs of youroperations significantly.

Purpose-Built for Remote Telecom Huts & Similar Facilities

For telecommunication operators, ensuring the continuous operation of communication equipment is more than necessary. The RPS AB6 enables remote management and rebooting of devices across distributed telecommunications facilities, ensuring high availability and service continuity. This feature also reduces the need for on-site technicians, minimizing operational costs.

The RPS AB6 has a great capacity for real-time monitoring and notifications which is particularly valuable for telecommunication facilities. It enables the prompt detection of any power-related issues that could potentially disrupt communication services. This device prevents the possibility of brief outages leading to financial losses or the loss of customer trust.

Great Fit for Other Remote Sites

Organizations with remote operational sites will find the RPS AB6 fundamental. Some of these remote sites are oil rigs, weather stations, or remote broadcasting facilities.

These sites often face logistical challenges because of their location. This makes remote management a necessity for maintaining continuous operations without frequent on-site visits.

Your Next Step: Consult With an Expert to Create Your PDU Plan

When implementing remote monitoring/control devices of any kind, it's important to choose a trustworthy and reliable manufacturer. With DPS Telecom's commitment to high-quality solutions and support, you know you're getting provent tools for your network's power management.

Whether you operate a large data center, a telecom network, or manage remote sites, the RPS AB6 provides a reliable, secure, and cost-effective solution for your power management & remote monitoring goals.

For more information on how the Remote Power Switch AB6 can help you, call 1-800-622-3314 or email sales@dpstele.com.

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Andrew Erickson

Andrew Erickson

Andrew Erickson is an Application Engineer at DPS Telecom, a manufacturer of semi-custom remote alarm monitoring systems based in Fresno, California. Andrew brings more than 17 years of experience building site monitoring solutions, developing intuitive user interfaces and documentation, and opt...