Abstract: A power distribution unit (PDU), including: a housing; one or more outlets; a power input connector; a controller; multiple power input conductors coupled to the power input connector; a pair of conductors coupled to and extending between the power input connector and the controller; and a detachable power cord, including: a power cord connector mateable with the power input connector; multiple power cord conductors coupled to the power cord connector and in electrical communication with corresponding power input conductors; and a memory coupled to the power cord connector and in electrical communication with the pair of conductors, wherein the memory includes information pertaining to the power cord.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus provide for at least one relay with contacts transitioning from: an OFF state to an ON state in response to an ON-pulse of current through a coil in a first direction; and the ON state to the OFF state in response to an OFF-pulse of current through the coil in a second, opposite direction. A driver circuit operates to produce the ON-pulse through the coil of the relay in response to a control signal commanding the ON-state of the contacts; produce the OFF-pulse of current through the coil of the relay in response to a control signal commanding the OFF-state of the contacts; and produce the OFF-pulse of current through the coil of the relay in response to a loss of operating potential across the pair of operating power nodes.