Scenario: You installed a Metered or Basic PDU in your rack, connected your equipment, and ensured the load is maximized within safe operating levels. A few weeks later someone working in your racks is looking for a location to add additional devices, plug in a lap top, or even connect a power tool. They see open outlets plug in their device and overload the circuit taking down your entire rack. It’s an avoidable and unfortunately too common occurrence on networks around the world. Must have power, still have outlets
If only there was a way to lock out the outlets, and prevent unauthorized connections……..
PDUs Direct is now offering the Agitan Plug Shields. These outlet shields prevent drive by plug ins and potential circuit overloads. They also provide a visual indication that authorization is required to connect equipment, provide increased internal controls, and facilitate Network Audits.
The Agitan Plug Shields simply inserts into the C13 outlet. If you have children, they operate much like the baby proof outlet shields in your home. The shield effectively blocks the outlet from any connections. Place a shield in each unused outlet to fully protect your circuits. To remove the shield insert the removal tool, turn, and pull.
The Agitan Plug Shield is bright red with “Authorized Removal Only” written on the face. This provides a visual indicator that connection of equipment requires management authorization. Management controls the Removal Tool access and usage, and with a simple outlet control request form your have increased your internal controls. I know, not a lot of “wow factor”, but if you have ever been involved in a Sarbanes Oxley, increased internal controls make the bean counters very happy.
The shields are also useful when completing your IT power audits. The contrasting red shields make identifying unused outlets quick and easy. This information is useful in determining where to look for additional growth capacity and free rack space.
For a small, inexpensive, and simple tool, the Agitan Plug Shields provides practical overload protection, enhanced best practices, and additional internal controls without adding points of failure.
