19-inch power strips for server and network cabinets

A 19-inch power strip provides multiple power connections in a compact format designed for installation in compatible server, network and control cabinets. Instead of using a conventional extension lead inside the cabinet, a rack-mountable solution keeps the power distribution in a defined position and makes connected equipment easier to organise.

brennenstuhl® offers different 19-inch and 10-inch extension leads for cabinet applications. Depending on the model, these can include earthed sockets, IEC connections, switching functions, circuit breakers, surge protection or network-based control. The right solution depends on the cabinet format, the equipment being connected and the required electrical features.

What is a 19-inch power strip?

A 19-inch power strip is designed to fit into equipment racks and cabinets that use the standard 19-inch mounting format. It can be installed directly in the cabinet so that servers, switches, network components and other equipment can be supplied with power from one organised location.

The main advantage is the fixed installation. Cables and plugs remain inside the rack, while the power strip does not need to lie loose on the cabinet floor or behind the installed equipment.

Where are 19-inch power strips used?

Rack-mountable power strips are commonly used in server cabinets, network cabinets and control cabinets where several electrical devices need a reliable and clearly organised power supply. They are particularly useful in IT installations, communications infrastructure and technical environments where multiple devices are installed within the same rack.

The required number of sockets depends on the equipment installed in the cabinet. It is also important to consider the plug types, available installation space and whether the equipment is supplied directly from the mains or through an uninterruptible power supply.

What is the difference between 19-inch and 10-inch power strips?

The difference mainly relates to the rack format for which the extension lead is designed. A 19-inch model is intended for standard 19-inch network and server cabinets, while compact 10-inch versions are suitable for corresponding smaller cabinet systems.

Before choosing a power strip, check the dimensions and mounting format of the cabinet. The number of sockets and available functions can also differ between the individual 10-inch and 19-inch models.

Which sockets do I need in a server cabinet?

The correct socket configuration depends on the equipment being powered. Some rack extension leads use conventional earthed sockets, while other models are equipped with IEC C13 outlets and a C14 input connection. IEC connections are commonly used for IT and rack equipment and can be particularly practical where devices or an uninterruptible power supply use this connection system.

Do not choose the product based only on the number of outlets. Check that the plug system of the extension lead matches the devices and power infrastructure used in the cabinet.

Why is socket arrangement important?

The arrangement of the sockets can affect how efficiently the available outlets can be used. Selected brennenstuhl® rack extension leads use sockets arranged at an angle, which can provide additional space for angled plugs and help prevent neighbouring outlets from being blocked.

For installations using IEC connections, the socket arrangement follows the requirements of the corresponding connection system. When planning the cabinet, consider both the number of devices and the physical space required by their power connectors.

Do I need surge protection in a server cabinet?

Servers, network devices and other IT equipment contain sensitive electronic components, so additional protection against short-term voltage spikes can be useful depending on the installation. Selected brennenstuhl® 19-inch extension leads therefore include integrated surge protection.

Surge protection should be considered together with the overall electrical protection concept of the installation. The maximum surge current is only one technical characteristic and should not be confused with the normal electrical load of the power strip.

More information on the meaning of surge protection ratings is available in Surge current ratings for extension leads.

What is an automatic circuit breaker useful for?

Selected rack extension leads are equipped with an automatic circuit breaker. This provides an additional protective function within the power strip and can be particularly relevant for cabinet installations where several devices are supplied from one unit.

The available protection and rated current depend on the individual model. Always check the technical specification of the power strip and make sure it is suitable for the connected equipment and the electrical installation.

Which power strip is suitable for use with a UPS?

If the rack equipment is powered through an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), the connection system of both the UPS and the extension lead needs to match. Selected brennenstuhl® rack extension leads are available with IEC C14 plugs and corresponding IEC socket configurations, making them suitable for installations that use this type of connection.

Before installation, check the permitted electrical load of the power strip as well as the output specification of the UPS. The combined power consumption of the connected equipment must remain within the specified limits of all components in the power supply chain.

Do I need a switch on a rack power strip?

A switch can be useful where all connected devices should be disconnected from the power supply together. In other installations, an unswitched power strip may be preferable to reduce the risk of equipment being switched off accidentally. Both approaches can be useful depending on the application.

The decision should therefore be based on how the rack is operated and whether central manual switching is actually required.

Can rack equipment be controlled remotely?

For applications that require more than conventional power distribution, selected brennenstuhl® solutions provide network-based monitoring and switching functions. The Premium-Web-Line, for example, combines the 19-inch rack format with Ethernet connectivity and automatic Main-Follow control.

Such functions can be useful where connected equipment needs to be monitored or controlled without direct physical access to the cabinet. For simpler installations, a conventional rack-mounted extension lead may be sufficient.

What should I look for when choosing a 19-inch power strip?

• Rack format: Check whether the cabinet uses a 19-inch or 10-inch mounting system.
• Number of sockets: Allow enough connections for the equipment installed in the cabinet.
• Plug system: Decide whether earthed sockets or IEC C13/C14 connections are required.
• Socket arrangement: Make sure the available space is suitable for the plugs and power supplies being used.
• Switching: Consider whether a central on/off switch is useful or whether an unswitched model is preferable.
• Protection: Depending on the application, surge protection or an automatic circuit breaker may be required.
• UPS compatibility: Check that the connection system and electrical specifications match the UPS where one is used.
• Maximum electrical load: The combined power consumption of all connected equipment must remain within the rating specified for the individual power strip.

Premium-Line or Alu-Line for server cabinets?

brennenstuhl® offers rack-mountable extension leads in different product ranges. Premium-Line models use robust special-plastic housings and are available with different connection and switching options. Alu-Line models use a compact aluminium housing and include variants with earthed sockets, IEC connections, circuit breakers or surge protection.

The best choice depends on the cabinet, the connected equipment and the required functions rather than on the housing material alone. Compare the complete technical specification of the individual model before selecting a rack power strip.