Tripp Lite Metered PDU, 15A, 13 Outlets, 5-15R, 120V, 5-15P, 15 Ft. Cord (PDUMH15)
Quick take
The Tripp Lite PDUMH15 is a 1U rack-mount metered power distribution unit for 120V, 15A setups, offering 13 total outlets plus a built-in digital meter that reports load level in Amps. It is a solid fit for network closets and server racks where you want a simple way to watch current draw as you add equipment. The main buying caveat is that the meter may not react clearly when you run only very light loads.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Built-in digital Amps meter for local load monitoring to help prevent overloading.
- Switch-free outlet design, which reduces the risk of accidental shutoff of connected loads.
- Rugged all-metal vertical rack-mount form factor (1U), with detachable mounting flanges for multiple install styles.
- 13 outlets total (12 rear-facing, 1 front-facing) to support more flexible cable management in a rack.
Cons
- Meter readings may not be obvious with very light load conditions.
- Transformers on power bricks (wall warts) can consume outlet space, limiting how many devices you can practically plug in.
- Mounting hardware is not included, so you may need to use existing rack fasteners.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is generally positive on reliability, physical build, and the usefulness of having local current visibility. Users describe the unit as a good fit for rack installs, with a rigid all-metal chassis that feels dependable. Several buyers also note that the meter behavior makes sense once there is enough load, with at least one correction indicating it was not changing under insufficient load rather than failing outright. There is limited but relevant feedback that the meter does not show meaningful change with light loads, and that power-brick style plugs may reduce practical outlet availability due to spacing constraints.
What this metered PDU is for
This is a rack-oriented power strip designed for controlled environments like 1U server racks, network closets, and similar deployments. The key feature is the built-in digital meter that displays output current in Amps locally, which can help you watch how close your rack power is getting as you add more gear.
Key features that matter in daily use
Local Amps monitoring (useful for load planning)
The PDUMH15 includes a digital meter that reports load in Amps. In practice, that matters when you are scaling a rack gradually. Instead of guessing or relying on upstream breaker assumptions, you can use the meter as a quick visual guide while you plug in additional equipment.
Important limitation: some users report the meter does not show meaningful activity with very light loads, so it is best suited for setups where there is enough total draw to move the reading.
Switch-free design to reduce accidental downtime
Each outlet is provided without an all-ports switch, which helps prevent accidental shutoff of connected devices. This is particularly relevant in racks where you do not want a single mis-click or bumped control to cut power.
Outlet layout for rack and closet cable routing
The unit provides 13 outlets total, with 12 rear-facing outlets and 1 front-facing outlet. The vertical, all-metal 1U rack-mount design is built to keep the power distribution integrated into your rack instead of dangling cables across equipment.
One practical concern that comes up with this style of PDU is outlet real estate. If your devices use bulky transformer-style plugs, you may find that only some outlets are usable at once because the plugs take up space.
Flexible mounting options (and a small checklist item)
The PDUMH15 uses a vertical all-metal cabinet with detachable mounting flanges, supporting installation in both 1U rack space and a zero U format. That helps if your deployment needs wall-mount or under-counter style placement in addition to standard 19-inch racks.
However, mounting hardware is not included, so if you are missing rack screws or cage-nut hardware, plan to use what you already have.
Pros and cons for different buyer types
Best for
- IT admins and home lab builders who want local current visibility while expanding a rack.
- Anyone running 120V 15A power distribution with multiple network, storage, or AV devices in a 1U space.
- Setups where accidental power switching is a concern, since this model is switch-free for the outlets.
Who should avoid it
- Buyers whose rack power draw is consistently very light, because the meter may not show noticeable readings in those conditions.
- Users with many large transformer-style power adapters, since outlet spacing can become a limiting factor.
- Anyone who needs the PDU to come with mounting screws or rack hardware included.
Price and availability
This PDU is typically sold through major retailers with live pricing. For the most accurate cost and shipping details, check the current listing price on the retailer page.
Buying tips to make sure it fits your rack
- Confirm your input and device plugs: it is built for a 120V, 15A environment and uses a standard 5-15 plug input (US style).
- Estimate total current draw: the meter is intended to help monitor Amps, but it may not react clearly with extremely low load.
- Plan for power-brick spacing: if your devices use bulky adapters, count outlet usability, not just outlet count.
- Consider your mounting plan: detachable flanges allow multiple mounting formats, but you will likely supply your own rack fasteners.
Verdict
The Tripp Lite PDUMH15 is a dependable, all-metal 1U metered PDU that fits well in rack and closet deployments where you want clear, local Amps monitoring and switch-free outlet control. It is especially appealing when you are actively adding equipment and want a quick way to watch load. If your setup runs mostly light loads, or if many of your devices have large transformer plugs, you may find the meter usefulness and practical outlet capacity less satisfying.
FAQ
Does the meter show the load when the PDU has only a few devices plugged in?
Some buyers report the meter does not show meaningful change under very light loads. If your rack typically draws low current, meter activity may be limited, so consider how much total equipment draw you expect.
Is this PDU switch-free?
Yes. It uses a switch-free outlet design, which helps reduce accidental shutoff of connected loads.
How many outlets does it have, and where are they located?
It offers 13 outlets total, with 12 rear-facing outlets and 1 front-facing outlet.
Will bulky power adapters work well with the outlet spacing?
Transformer-style power bricks can take up more space, which can limit how many outlets you can practically use at once. If your devices use large adapters, plan your outlet usage accordingly.
Does it include mounting hardware?
Mounting hardware is not included, so you may need to use existing rack screws or fasteners.
Specifications
| Product Title | Tripp Lite Metered PDU, 15A, 13 Outlets, 5-15R, 120V, 5-15P, 100-127V Input, 15 Ft. Cord, 1U Rack-Mount Power, 2 Year Warranty, Black, PDUMH15 |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Power Accessories > PDUs |
| Brand | TRIPP LITE |
| Manufacturer | Tripp Lite |
| Model Number | PDUMH15 |
| Color | Black |
| Item Weight | 4.5 Pounds |
| Number of Outlets | 13 |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Other Special Features of the Product | Mountable, Surge Protection |
| Maximum Current | 15 Amps |
| Power Plug Type | Type B - 3 pin (North American) |
| Plug Type | Type B |
| Number of Ports | 13 |
| Compatible Devices | Hair Dryer, Set Top Box, Noise Maker, Freezer, Fax Machine, Modem, Iron, Tablet, Cellular Phone, Mixer Grinder, Microwave Oven, Gaming Console, Refrigerator, Smartwatch, Laptop, Projector, Radio, Air Conditioner, Television, Printer, Electric Fountain, Rice Cooker, Toaster, Lamp, DVD Player, MP3 Player, Home Theater, Light, E-Reader, Personal Computer, Smartphone, Router, Scanner, Speaker, Camera, Water Boiler, Monitor, Coffee Machine, Audio Sound System, Fan, Heater, Juicer |
| Amperage | 15 |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 3.25"L x 0.15"W |
| Shape | Mount |
| Enclosure Material | Metal |
| UPC | 956257958369 763615950244 611101540663 037332132529 611101607984 971475304842 001910094363 |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00037332132529 |
| Mfr Part Number | PDUMH15 |
| Built-In Media | Unit^Instruction Guide |
| External Testing Certification | UL60950-1/CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 60950-1-03 |
| Warranty Description | 2 Year Limited Warranty |
| Unit Count | 36.0 Count |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Apartment, Hotel, Office, Restaurant, TV |
Available variants
Style
- 15 Amps
- 15 Amps / Short Power Cord
- 120 Volts (Standard)
- 30 Amps
- 15 Amps / Right-Angle Outlets
- 20 Amps
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