Power Distribution Unit Solutions Panasonic Power Distribution Unit (PDU) Solutions utilize relays for remote maintenance switching. It is critical to have remote functionality in large data centers rather than have personnel switch the power distribution units manually. Inside a PDU, a relay is used to individually turn ON and OFF outlets for server equipment remotely. This is required for three main remote maintenance functions. In some cases, unused “ghost” servers may contain outdated applications that are no longer in use. Another reason would be when power may need to be cycled to fix frozen servers due to malfunction. Finally, servers that get too hot may also need to be turned off.