Power distribution units and extension leads for connecting several devices to a single mains socket at home, in the office or in a server cabinet. Our range includes standard socket strips and rack-mounted distribution units from BACHMANN, GOOBAY, INTER-TECH, LINDY and CYBERPOWER.
How to choose a power strip or extension lead
Outlet type and number. Homes and offices usually need Type F (Schuko) sockets, while servers and UPS units often connect through a C13 coupler (IEC 60320). Our range includes models with Type F outlets and with C13 outlets. Count every device you plan to connect and leave a few spare outlets, because new equipment tends to appear sooner than expected.
Current and load. The maximum current shows how much total power the unit can carry: at 230 V, 12 A corresponds to roughly 2.7 kW and 16 A to roughly 3.6 kW. Our range includes 12 A and 16 A models. Add up the power draw of everything you will plug in and leave some headroom, especially if a kettle, heater or several powerful PCs are involved.
Cable length. Choose a cable that reaches the wall socket without being stretched and without needing a second extension lead. Our range includes cable lengths of 2 m and 3.05 m. Plugging one strip into another is best avoided, as it makes it easy to exceed the permitted load.
Rack mounting. Units for server cabinets are measured in rack units: our range includes 1U and 1.5U models. Before buying, check how much space is free in the rack and whether the connectors match the cables of your equipment.
Operating conditions. If the unit will sit in a warehouse, a workshop or an unheated cabinet, check the permitted operating temperature. Our range includes models rated for 0 to 45 °C and for -10 to 45 °C. Most models have a nominal input of 230 V, while some specify a range of 200 to 240 V.
Brands we carry
- BACHMANN: Austrian manufacturer known for socket strips and extension leads for homes, offices and industry; it has the most products in our range.
- GOOBAY: supplier of cables and connection accessories, so its extension leads sit naturally alongside other computer and consumer electronics cabling.
- INTER-TECH: German brand known for PC cases and power supplies.
- LINDY: specialises in cables and connectivity solutions for computers, networks and video equipment.
- CYBERPOWER: known for uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) and rack-mounted power distribution units.
- BLACK BOX: network infrastructure and server equipment supplier whose products are used in data centres and cabinets.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a power distribution unit and an extension lead?
An extension lead mainly extends the distance to a socket and usually offers several outlets, whereas a power distribution unit (PDU) is designed to share power among many devices, often inside a server rack. PDUs commonly have C13 outlets, rack mounting and a clearly stated maximum current. At home, a standard extension lead with Type F outlets is normally enough.
How many devices can I connect to one power strip?
It depends on total power draw rather than the number of outlets. At 230 V, a 16 A strip can carry roughly 3.6 kW and a 12 A strip roughly 2.7 kW. Add up the power of all connected devices and leave some headroom.
Can I plug an extension lead into another extension lead?
It is best avoided. When several strips are chained, the whole load passes through the first cable and socket, which can overheat. Choose a longer cable or a strip with more outlets instead.
What does 1U mean for a power distribution unit?
1U means the unit takes up one standard rack unit of height in a 19-inch server rack, which is 44.45 mm. Our range includes 1U and 1.5U models. Check how much free space your cabinet has before buying.
