StarTech.com 1U 19 inch 8 Port Rack Mount PDU (PDU08C13H)
Quick take
This 1U, horizontal rack-mount PDU gives you eight IEC C13 outlets plus built-in circuit protection, built for clean power distribution in standard 19-inch server racks. It is a practical choice when you want to consolidate rack power with a professional, install-ready layout, but some buyers report input-connection fit issues and nuisance tripping when loads and voltage conditions do not match the intended setup.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Eight IEC C13 outlets for powering common rack equipment
- 1U 19-inch horizontal form factor for organized, space-efficient installs
- Built-in resettable circuit breaker for protection and overload shielding
- EIA-310D compliant design with included mounting hardware
Cons
- Some users report the input plug fit tolerance can be awkward during installation
- Buyers mention the breaker can trip under certain load or voltage scenarios, so load planning matters
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is mixed, with a few recurring themes. Many comments focus on the practical rack installation and whether the unit fits cleanly in a 1U space. A notable portion of the negative feedback centers on the behavior of the input connection during setup and the circuit breaker tripping under specific usage conditions. Overall, the review signal is limited, but the pattern suggests that installation fit and load management are the main variables to plan for before relying on this PDU for critical equipment.
How this PDU is set up for rack power distribution
The PDU08C13H is designed around a simple rack-power model: eight IEC C13 output outlets, plus a single-phase power input, arranged in a horizontal 1U chassis. That layout is typically chosen for racks where you want equipment power cords routed neatly and kept accessible without wasting extra rack depth.
For compatibility, it is EIA-310D compliant and intended for installation into a standard 19-inch rack, including both 2-post and 4-post setups (with the included mounting hardware). The unit also uses a C13 outlet style, which is common for servers, network gear, and other IT devices that accept standard rack power cords.
Power capacity and protection details that affect real-world use
This PDU is rated for up to 16A at 120V (1920VA) and 20A at 240V (4800VA), shared across its eight outlets. It also includes a resettable circuit breaker intended to act as surge protection and help shield from unintentional overloads.
The practical takeaway: to avoid nuisance trips, you need to match your environment (120V versus 240V) and plan your total connected load within the PDU’s rating. Reviews include reports of tripping in certain setups, which reinforces that you should confirm voltage, breaker expectations, and how your devices load the circuit.
Outlets and cabling compatibility (what to expect)
With 8x IEC C13 outputs, you can run up to eight C13-compatible power cords into your rack equipment. The unit’s power input is a C20 type, which supports configuring to local plug standards based on the included cord solution.
Some buyers note that the input plug connection can have a loose or tight fit tolerance during installation. That does not necessarily mean the PDU is unreliable, but it is a reminder to plan time for cable management so you can ensure secure seating and stable routing once everything is in the rack.
Pros and cons, summarized for buying
Who this PDU is best for
- Anyone building a tidy 19-inch rack setup that fits a 1U horizontal PDU
- Shoppers who want eight IEC C13 outlets for powering standard rack equipment
- Users who value built-in resettable circuit protection and a compliant rack-mount design
Who should think twice
- Buyers who cannot easily verify their 120V vs 240V environment and expected load draw
- Anyone who prefers straightforward input-cord installs and would be annoyed by the need to carefully adjust or secure the input connection during mounting
Price and availability
The list price is not consistently shown here, but the unit is reported as available in the United States. If you are comparing options, focus less on the headline price and more on whether your rack needs eight C13 outlets, a 1U horizontal footprint, and the right voltage and breaker behavior for your equipment mix.
Verdict: is it worth it?
The StarTech.com PDU08C13H is a solid pick when you need an EIA-310D compliant 1U rack PDU with eight IEC C13 outlets and resettable circuit protection. It becomes a better value when your load and voltage are well matched to the PDU’s ratings and your rack install allows you to manage the input connection carefully. If you are running unpredictable or high-demand loads, plan extra diligence around total wattage and breaker trips.
FAQ
How many outlets does this rack PDU have?
It has eight IEC C13 outlets.
Is this a 1U or 2U rack PDU?
It is a 1U rack-mount unit (horizontal design).
What voltage is it rated for?
It is rated up to 16A at 120V (1920VA) or 20A at 240V (4800VA), depending on your setup.
Does it include circuit protection?
Yes. It includes a resettable circuit breaker intended to provide overload and surge-related protection behavior.
Will it work in both 2-post and 4-post racks?
Yes. It is designed to be installable in standard 19-inch 2-post or 4-post racks with the included mounting hardware.
What is the main installation caveat to watch for?
Some buyers report the input plug connection can require careful handling to ensure a secure fit during installation.
Is it worth buying if my devices trip breakers easily?
If your devices create heavy or unusual loads, you should double-check the PDU’s voltage and load ratings before relying on it, since some buyers report breaker tripping under certain conditions.
Specifications
| Product Title | StarTech.com 1U 19 inch 8 Port Rack Mount PDU - IEC C13 Socket Rackmount Power Supply/Strip - Horizontal Server Rack Mountable PDU /Data Center Power Distribution Unit 16A 240V (PDU08C13H) |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Power Accessories > PDUs |
| Brand | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Color | Black |
| Item Weight | 4.38 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 3.9 x 18.9 x 1.7 inches |
| Series | 8-Outlet PDU |
| Item model number | PDU08C13H |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 3.9 x 18.9 x 1.7 inches |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Available variants
*
- 8 Port Rack
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