APC by Schneider Electric AP8881 Metered 0U Rack Power Distribution Unit
Overview
The AP8881 is a metered, zero-U rack PDU from APC by Schneider Electric designed for high-density three-phase power distribution in equipment racks. Taking a 400V 3-phase input (IEC 309 16A or 20A 3P+N+PE) and distributing 230V output across 42 outlets, it handles 11kW of rack load from a single unit — enough for a fully populated rack of servers, NVRs, or managed switches without a second PDU. The zero-U form factor mounts vertically in the rear of the rack, so it occupies none of the 1U-per-device front real estate. Metering gives you per-unit current visibility at the input, so you can catch overloads before a breaker trips rather than after. The AP8881 fits data centers, server rooms, and large-scale security infrastructure deployments where three-phase feeds are available and per-rack power accountability matters.
Compatibility
The AP8881 is compatible with standard 19-inch EIA-310 equipment racks from any manufacturer, including APC NetShelter SX/SV/VX cabinets, Schneider Electric racks, and third-party enclosures that support vertical zero-U PDU mounting channels. The 6-foot IEC 309 input cord reaches typical floor-level or overhead whip connections in standard rack rows. Output outlets — (36) IEC 320 C13 and (6) IEC 320 C19 — accept C14 and C20 power cords respectively, covering the full range of 1U servers, network switches, NVR appliances, PoE injectors, and high-draw devices (C19 ports suit power supplies drawing above ~10A). Not designed for single-phase 120V or 240V North American circuits; requires a three-phase 400V source with IEC 309 connector.
Installation Notes
Input current is derated to 16A on the regulatory rating — at 230V across three phases, plan load not to exceed roughly 80% of that figure in continuous operation. Operating temperature range is -5°C to 45°C with 5–95% relative humidity (non-condensing); standard conditioned data center environments are well within spec. The 6 ft cord length constrains placement relative to the PDU whip or floor outlet — measure the run before committing to rack position. Dimensions are 70.51 in. × 2.2 in. × 1.73 in., sized to span a full-height 42U rack in the vertical mounting channel.
