In today’s data-driven world, efficient and reliable power distribution is essential for maintaining uptime in data centers, server rooms, and enterprise IT environments. The APC Rack PDU, Basic, 1U, 16A, 208&230V, (10)C13 & (2)C19 (AP9559) by Schneider Electric is a cost-effective, dependable power distribution unit (PDU) designed to deliver power to rack-mounted equipment. This blog provides a comprehensive overview of the AP9559’s features, specifications, benefits, and applications, making it a valuable resource for IT professionals and facility managers.
What is the APC AP9559 Rack PDU?
The APC AP9559 is a basic, 1U rack-mounted PDU that provides straightforward power distribution for IT equipment. Featuring 10 IEC C13 and 2 IEC C19 outlets, it supports a 16A input at 208V or 230V, making it suitable for powering servers, networking devices, and other rack-mounted hardware. As part of APC’s Basic Rack PDU series, the AP9559 focuses on simplicity, reliability, and affordability, offering a no-frills solution for environments where advanced features like remote monitoring or switched outlets are not required.
Key Features of the AP9559
- Multiple Outlet Types: The AP9559 includes 10 IEC C13 outlets for standard IT equipment (e.g., servers, switches) and 2 IEC C19 outlets for high-power devices (e.g., blade servers, storage systems), providing versatility for diverse rack configurations.
- Flexible Input Voltage: Supports input voltages of 200V, 208V, and 230V, allowing compatibility with various power environments worldwide.
- IEC-320 C20 Input: The PDU uses a standard IEC-320 C20 inlet with an 8.2-foot (2.5-meter) cord, offering flexibility for connecting to facility power sources.
- Compact 1U Design: The 1U form factor ensures efficient use of rack space, with horizontal mounting options for standard 19-inch racks or cabinets.
- Toolless Mounting Options: Includes rack mounting brackets for easy installation, with support for horizontal, vertical, and toolless mounting in compatible racks like APC’s NetShelter VX.
- High Power Capacity: With a maximum load capacity of 3680 VA (at 230V), the AP9559 can power multiple devices from a single branch whip, reducing cabling complexity.
- Global Certifications: Compliant with CE, EN 55022 Class A, EN 55024, EN 61000-3-2, EN 61000-3-3, GOST, IRAM, MIC, VDE, RoHS, and REACH, ensuring safety and environmental standards.
Technical Specifications
- Model: AP9559
- PDU Type: Basic
- Rack Height: 1U
- Input Voltage: 200V, 208V, 230V
- Input Frequency: 50/60 Hz
- Maximum Input Current: 16A
- Input Connector: IEC-320 C20
- Cord Length: 8.2 feet (2.5 meters)
- Output Voltage: 120V, 208V, 230V
- Output Connections: 10 x IEC 320 C13, 2 x IEC 320 C19
- Maximum Total Current Draw: 16A
- Load Capacity: 3680 VA (at 230V)
- Dimensions: 447 mm (W) x 57 mm (D) x 44 mm (H)
- Weight: 2.36 kg (5.2 lbs)
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 45°C (32°F to 113°F)
- Operating Relative Humidity: 0% to 95% (non-condensing)
- Operating Elevation: 0 to 3,000 meters
- Certifications: CE, EN 55022 Class A, EN 55024, EN 61000-3-2, EN 61000-3-3, GOST, IRAM, MIC, VDE, RoHS, REACH
- Warranty: 2 years (repair or replace)
- Package Contents: PDU, Rack Mounting Brackets, User Manual
Benefits of the AP9559
- Reliable Power Distribution: The AP9559 delivers consistent power to multiple rack-mounted devices, ensuring operational stability for critical IT equipment.
- Cost-Effective Solution: As a basic PDU, it offers essential power distribution at an affordable price (typically £200–£350), making it ideal for budget-conscious deployments.
- Versatile Connectivity: The combination of C13 and C19 outlets supports a wide range of equipment, from standard servers to high-power devices, reducing the need for multiple PDUs.
- Simplified Installation: The 1U design, toolless mounting options, and long 2.5-meter cord simplify installation, saving time and reducing cabling complexity.
- Space Efficiency: Its compact form factor maximizes rack space, leaving room for other critical equipment in dense server environments.
- Global Compatibility: Support for multiple input voltages and compliance with international standards make the AP9559 suitable for use in various regions.
- Trusted Brand: Manufactured by APC by Schneider Electric, the AP9559 benefits from a reputation for quality and reliability in power management solutions.
Applications
The AP9559 is well-suited for:
- Small to Medium Data Centers: Provides reliable power distribution for servers, storage, and networking equipment in compact rack setups.
- Server Rooms: Supports rack-mounted IT hardware in enterprise or SMB environments.
- Network Closets: Ideal for powering switches, routers, and other networking gear in confined spaces.
- Edge Computing: Ensures stable power delivery for distributed IT infrastructure in remote or branch locations.
Why Choose the APC AP9559 Over Competitors?
While other basic PDUs from brands like CyberPower or Tripp Lite offer similar functionality, the AP9559 has distinct advantages:
- Trusted Reliability: APC’s long-standing expertise in power management ensures the AP9559 meets high standards for performance and durability.
- Flexible Outlet Configuration: The mix of 10 C13 and 2 C19 outlets provides greater versatility than many competing PDUs with fewer or single-type outlets.
- Global Standards Compliance: Extensive certifications (e.g., RoHS, REACH, CE) ensure safety and environmental responsibility, which may not be as comprehensive in budget models.
- Ease of Integration: Designed for compatibility with APC’s NetShelter racks and accessories, such as the AP9569 Cord Retention Bracket, for enhanced cable management.
However, some users have noted minor drawbacks, such as the delicate rack mounting brackets, which may require careful installation to avoid alignment issues or screw threading problems.
Installation and Usage Tips
- Verify Power Requirements: Ensure your equipment matches the PDU’s input (200V, 208V, or 230V) and output (C13 or C19) specifications. Confirm the IEC-320 C20 inlet is compatible with your facility’s power source.
- Secure Mounting: Use the included rack mounting brackets to install the PDU horizontally in a 1U rack space. Double-check alignment, as some users report finicky brackets.
- Cable Management: Pair the AP9559 with APC’s AP9569 Cord Retention Bracket to secure power cords and prevent accidental disconnections.
- Load Balancing: Distribute devices across the 12 outlets to avoid overloading any single circuit, keeping the total current draw below 16A.
- Environmental Conditions: Operate the PDU within the specified temperature (0°C to 45°C) and humidity (0% to 95% non-condensing) ranges to ensure longevity.
- Regular Inspections: Periodically check connections and mounting hardware to maintain stability in high-vibration environments.
Customer Feedback
Customer reviews of the AP9559 highlight its reliability and ease of use for basic power distribution. On Amazon UK, users praise the fast delivery and compatibility with standard IT equipment, though some note the lack of advanced features like metering or remote control, which are available in APC’s metered or switched PDUs (e.g., AP8858). A 2014 review of a similar APC PDU (AP9565) mentioned concerns about the quality of rack mounting brackets, citing alignment issues and delicate construction compared to Siemens or HP alternatives. Despite this, the AP9559’s performance and outlet versatility are well-regarded for small to medium-sized deployments.
Conclusion
The APC Rack PDU Basic 1U 16A 208&230V (10)C13 & (2)C19 (AP9559) is a reliable, cost-effective solution for distributing power to rack-mounted IT equipment. Its compact 1U design, versatile outlet configuration, and support for multiple input voltages make it an excellent choice for small to medium data centers, server rooms, and network closets. While it lacks advanced features like remote monitoring or switched outlets, its simplicity and affordability make it ideal for environments where basic power distribution is sufficient.
Backed by APC’s trusted brand, a 2-year warranty, and global certifications, the AP9559 delivers dependable performance for critical IT infrastructure. To learn more or purchase, CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES.