Gear article

Caymon PSR428UK 19” Power Distribution Rack Unit

The Caymon PSR428UK is a professional 19-inch rack-mountable power distribution unit designed for AV and IT systems. It features eight rear-facing UK sockets, integrated USB charging, and a dimmable LED light bar to provide efficient power management and visibility within studio racks.

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Overview and Construction

The Caymon PSR428UK is engineered as a central power hub for professional rack environments. Constructed from robust black aluminium, it occupies a standard 19-inch rack space, providing a durable solution for both mobile touring racks and permanent studio installations. The unit is equipped with a fixed 2.5-metre power cable, allowing for sufficient reach to mains outlets in various configurations, and includes a chassis earth connection point for enhanced electrical safety.

Power Distribution and Safety

The primary function of the PSR428UK is to distribute power to up to eight devices via rear-facing UK sockets. This rear-facing orientation is particularly useful for maintaining a clean aesthetic and managing cable clutter by keeping power leads hidden within the rack. For protection, the unit features a built-in circuit breaker, which safeguards connected equipment against overloads and electrical faults.

Lighting and USB Connectivity

Distinct from basic power strips, the PSR428UK includes several utility features on its front panel. A built-in LED rack light provides illumination for the equipment mounted below it, with dimming capabilities ranging from 25% to 100% to suit different ambient lighting conditions. Additionally, two front-mounted USB ports provide a combined 2.1A output at 5V, allowing for the charging of small mobile devices or powering USB-driven accessories without occupying the main AC outlets.

Target Applications

This unit is specifically suited for:

  • Professional Audio/Visual Racks: Organising power for mixers, processors, and receivers.
  • IT Infrastructure: Managing power for servers and networking hardware.
  • Recording Studios: Providing a centralized, surge-protected power source for outboard gear.
  • Mobile DJ and Live Sound: Offering a quick-setup power solution with integrated lighting for dark venues.

Comparison to Alternatives

The Caymon PSR428UK sits alongside other rack accessories such as the Adam Hall 19" Rack Cradle or various rack drawers. While standard rack panels, like the Adam Hall Aluminium U-Shaped Panel, offer structural utility, the PSR428UK provides active electronic functionality. Compared to basic power strips, its integration of a dimmable light and USB charging ports makes it a more versatile 'all-in-one' utility module for complex rack setups.

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Frequently asked questions

How many UK sockets are available on the Caymon PSR428UK?
The unit features eight rear-facing UK sockets, designed to power multiple devices within a 19-inch rack system.
What is the material of the PSR428UK housing?
The housing is made of robust black aluminium, providing durability for professional AV and IT environments.
Can the LED light on the front panel be adjusted?
Yes, the LED rack light is dimmable, allowing the user to adjust the brightness between 25% and 100%.
What is the total output of the USB ports?
The two front-facing USB ports provide a combined output of 5V and 2.1A, suitable for charging small devices.
Does the unit include a circuit breaker?
Yes, the Caymon PSR428UK has a built-in circuit breaker to protect connected equipment from electrical overloads.
How long is the attached power cable?
The unit comes with a fixed 2.5-metre power cable, providing flexibility for connection to wall outlets.
Is there a specific connection for grounding the chassis?
Yes, the unit includes a dedicated chassis earth connection point for safety and noise reduction.
Where are the power sockets located on the unit?
All eight UK power sockets are located on the rear of the unit to help manage cable clutter inside the rack.
Can this unit be mounted in any 19-inch rack?
Yes, it is designed specifically to fit standard 19-inch rack systems used in studios and data centres.
What is the primary use for the front-facing LED light?
The LED light is intended to provide visibility for equipment mounted in the rack below the power unit, especially in dark environments.
Are the USB ports suitable for high-speed data transfer?
No, the USB ports are specifically designed for charging and power delivery at 5V, not for data connectivity.
How much does the Caymon PSR428UK typically cost?
The unit is generally priced around GBP 129, though retail prices may vary slightly between vendors.