Rack-mount power strips are an essential component for any professional audio visual (AV) system. As AV systems become increasingly complex with the integration of more advanced audio visual software and smart device control, proper power management becomes even more critical. In this blog post, we will take a deep dive into rack-mountable power strips and explore their various features, benefits and considerations for AV systems.
Introduction
Rack-mountable power strips are designed specifically for installation in AV equipment racks. Their compact size and mounting brackets allow them to occupy very little space while providing multiple AC outlets for powering all the essential AV gear installed in the rack. Proper power distribution is key to ensure reliable and seamless operation of any AV system. This becomes even more important as systems grow larger in size and complexity with new audio visual software and technologies.
Types of Rack-Mount Power Strips
There are a few different types of rack-mount power strips available to suit different needs:
Basic Rack Strips
Basic rack-mount power strips provide the simplest solution with a small number of AC outlets, usually between 4-8, in a compact enclosure that can mount in a standard 19-inch rack. They usually do not have any advanced features but get the job done as a basic power distribution solution.
Managed Rack Strips
Managed rack power strips add features like individually switched outlets, remote management capabilities, and power monitoring. The outlets can be turned on/off remotely or programmed to power cycle on a schedule. This allows for flexible control and ensures only necessary devices remain powered at all times for energy efficiency. Many also have integrated monitoring to track power usage.
Surge Protected Rack Strips
For extra protection against power surges and spikes, opt for a rack mount power strip that includes surge suppression. Look for strips with clamping voltages well below equipment voltage limits to safeguard sensitive AV electronics from potential power issues.
Network Management Rack Strips
The highest-end rack power strips integrate network connectivity to allow for remote monitoring and control via web interfaces or audio visual software. Advanced features include outlet-level power metering, environmental monitoring, email alerts, and more for complete remote management of rack power.
Benefits for AV Systems
Rack-mount power strips provide several important benefits compared to traditional power strips for AV systems:
Neat Cable Management
A properly installed rack power strip keeps power cables neat and organized within the AV rack. This enhances airflow and makes maintenance easier compared to loose power cables spanning racks.
Consolidated Outlets
Having all outlets mounted securely in the rack near connected equipment eliminates the hassle of long power cables running all over. It’s also safer as cables aren’t left trailing on floors.
Flexible Installation
Rack strips can mount sideways or vertically using supplied brackets to accommodate different gear layouts within narrow rack spaces. This maximizes usable rack space.
Surge Protection
Protecting sensitive AV electronics from surges is critical. Rack power strips withstrong surge suppression safeguard whole systems from potential power issues.
Remote Management
Network-capable racks allow remote access and control of power from anywhere. Coupled with audio visual software, they enable flexible smart functionality and energy savings through scheduled usage.
Future Expandability
As systems scale up by adding more devices, additional rack strips can be easily installed without cable messes. This facilitates cost-effective expansion over time.
Considerations when Choosing a Rack Power Strip
When selecting the right rack-mount power strip for an AV installation, some key factors to consider include:
Number of Outlets
How many devices need to be powered? Basic racks have 4-8 outlets while higher-end models have 12-24 outlets or more.
Mounting Options
Verify the rack strip can mount vertically or horizontally depending on equipment layout needs. Recessed or protruding mounting ears are other factors.
Overload Protection
Look for racks with replaceable circuit breakers or resettable fuses for device protection from shorts or overloads.
Voltage Rating
Make sure the rack can accommodate worldwide voltage ranges from 100-240V as required for any international install needs now or in future.
Surge Protection Rating
Higher joule ratings of 650J or more provide strong protection up to and beyond industry standards for sensitive gear.
Monitoring and Control
Evaluate power, environmental and remote access options based on control/monitoring requirements of the AV system design.
Budget
Pricing varies significantly so set a budget that aligns with the system size and critical needs based on the level of features required.
Conclusion
In conclusion, rack-mount power strips are essential for proper power distribution and management within professional AV systems. Consider factors like outlets, mounting, protection, control capabilities and more to determine the best fit. Proper power protection also safeguards large investments in AV hardware and software which is critical as systems grow ever more complex.