netBooter NP-02B Remote Switched PDU with 2 Power Outlets, 120V/13A. Control via Web, telnet, or USB
Quick take
The netBooter NP-02B is a 2-outlet remote switched PDU built for IT and network gear that sometimes needs a true power cycle from off-site. It supports web (HTTP) access, telnet control, and a USB serial port option, plus practical automation like autoping-based reboot and scheduled power on/off.
The main caveat is that it is a power-control tool first, and some interfaces and security ergonomics are less polished than buyers may expect, so it is best for hands-on admins who want dependable remote reboot capability more than “consumer-friendly” setup.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Two independently managed outlets for separating power control between devices.
- Remote control options include HTTP web access, telnet, and USB serial (baud rate support listed).
- Automation features for real-world uptime work, including autoping reboot, daily or weekly scheduling, and NTP or RTC timing.
- Metal, compact enclosure designed for mounting, with per-outlet status LEDs.
Cons
- Interface depth and usability can feel technical, and some buyers prefer simpler management experiences from other products.
- Feature support is model-dependent, for example email capabilities and environmental reporting are not universally available across the lineup.
- With only 2 outlets, it can be limiting if you need power control for more than two devices.
What buyers think
Buyer feedback centers on reliability and usefulness for remote power cycling. Multiple reviews describe successful use for rebooting network and office equipment from home, with configuration generally taking minutes once familiar with the interface. There is also recurring praise for build quality, including a solid metal enclosure and a substantial power cord, plus practical status and control behavior through the supported management methods.
At the same time, review evidence is mixed on software and interface usability. Some buyers call out that the web interface and overall management experience can be less intuitive, and at least one review flags interface/security expectations as part of the tradeoff. Overall, buyer-review evidence supports the NP-02B as a capable remote reboot tool, but also suggests it is a better match for technical users comfortable administering network devices than for users expecting a highly polished, plug-and-play experience.
How it works and what it’s for
This netBooter is designed to let you switch power to connected equipment remotely over a network, so you can perform a hard shutdown and power cycle when a device becomes unstable. That makes it a good fit for gear where a true depower and reboot matters, such as certain firewall scenarios, NVR setups, or network-connected systems that occasionally get “stuck” after a brown-out or fluctuation.
Instead of providing a single always-on outlet, the NP-02B offers two independently controlled outlets, so you can reboot one device without disturbing the other. Status LEDs for each outlet can also help you quickly confirm which side is on or off.
Control options: web, telnet, and USB
The NP-02B supports multiple ways to configure and control the power outlets:
- Web interface (HTTP): lets you browse and control the device.
- Telnet: provides command-line control.
- USB serial port: supported for local control, with baud rate support listed.
That flexibility is useful if you manage systems in different ways, or if you want a local backdoor path during troubleshooting. The tradeoff is that these options are aimed at administrators, not casual users, and buyers who are sensitive to security and interface ergonomics may want to evaluate how they plan to access the PDU before deploying it broadly.
Automation features that matter for uptime
If your main goal is avoiding manual trips when equipment needs a reboot, the NP-02B includes features built for that workflow:
- Autoping: reboot outlets after specified ping losses (useful for detecting “network up, app not responding” type symptoms).
- Scheduling: daily or weekly reboot and power on/off timing.
- Time syncing: sync to an NTP server or use a real-time clock.
- Event notifications: email alerts and a local event log are listed as capabilities.
One practical implication: if you pair this with a monitoring strategy (for example, ping targets that represent the health you care about), the PDU can shift you from reactive rebooting to scheduled or condition-based resets.
Pros and cons for different buyer types
Best for
- Admins who want remote power cycling for two pieces of network equipment.
- People who prefer having multiple control paths (web and telnet, plus USB serial fallback).
- Use cases where schedules and autoping-based reboots can prevent “stuck” states from turning into outages.
Who should be cautious
- Buyers who need more than two independently switchable outlets, since outlet count is fixed on this model.
- Users who want a highly polished, beginner-friendly interface and do not want to manage technical setup tradeoffs.
- Anyone with strict requirements around security practices for remote administration should review how they plan to access it on their network.
Design and build notes
The NP-02B is a compact, rack-friendly unit (1U class) intended for mounting in common spaces like racks, under desks, or on walls with appropriate brackets. The enclosure is described by buyers as metal and solid, and it includes per-outlet status LEDs plus a link/device power indication.
From a power perspective, it uses a single IEC 320 C14 inlet and provides NEMA 5-15R output receptacles (two controlled outlets on this model). It is built for 120VAC operation at 60Hz, and the operational environment temperature range is listed (outdoor use can be possible in principle, but always consider local conditions and any best practices for outdoor electronics).
Price and availability
This model has shown pricing around the mid-$100s in many listings, and it can be a cost-effective way to add remote hard power cycling when you only need two outlets. For the most accurate current pricing, check availability on the retailer page.
Verdict
The netBooter NP-02B is a practical remote switched PDU for technical buyers who need reliable power cycling for two devices. Its automation features like autoping and scheduling are well aligned with real uptime maintenance workflows, and buyers consistently describe solid build quality and successful real-world use. If you want a smoother “set it and forget it” consumer experience or you need more than two controlled outlets, you may want to consider a different PDU model with more outlets or a more streamlined management interface.
FAQ
Can I control the NP-02B remotely?
Yes. It supports network control through a web interface (HTTP) and also telnet. There is also a USB serial port for local command-line style control.
Does it support automatic rebooting?
It includes autoping-based reboot after specified ping losses, and it also supports daily or weekly scheduling for power on/off and reboot timing.
How many devices can I plug in?
This specific model has two independently managed outlets, so it is designed for up to two switchable power connections.
Is the web UI the only way to manage it?
No. You can also use telnet for command-line control, and there is a USB serial port option for local management.
Is it designed for rack use?
It is a compact unit intended for mounting in common IT layouts. The product is described as 1U class and supports installation in rack or other mounting scenarios with appropriate brackets.
What are the main reasons people may not choose it?
The tradeoffs are outlet count (only two), and a more technical management experience than some buyers prefer. Feature availability like email notification and environmental reporting can also vary by model within the lineup.
Specifications
| Product Title | netBooter NP-02B Remote Switched PDU with 2 Power Outlets, 120V/13A. Control via Web, telnet, or USB |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Power Accessories > PDUs |
| Manufacturer | Synaccess Network, Inc |
| Item Weight | 2.42 pounds |
| Package Dimensions | 9.13 x 8.15 x 2.17 inches |
| Item model number | NP-02B |
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