Case study Inline Meter

The Schleifenbauer Inline Meter – A Powerful Solution for Data Centres

With growing concern around energy consumption and increasingly strict legislation such as the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED), data centres are under pressure to monitor and report their energy usage more accurately. Fully replacing existing infrastructure can be costly — especially when it involves basic Power Distribution Units (PDUs) without built-in energy metering.

The Schleifenbauer Inline Meter offers an innovative solution that allows existing installations to be upgraded without the need for complete replacement. This technology helps data centres both comply with regulations and monitor energy usage efficiently.

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Schleifenbauer Inline Meter: Available Models

The Schleifenbauer Inline Meter is available in two models: the G3 and the 5.0 — each offering specific features tailored to different needs within the data centre environment. While both versions offer excellent energy monitoring capabilities, they differ in terms of technology, user interface and integration options.

1. G3 Inline Meter

The G3 Inline Meter is ideal for scenarios that require direct, local interaction. It features a physical display and an integrated controller for on-site monitoring of power consumption and other critical system parameters.

Key features of the G3:

• LCD Display & Controller: Equipped with an LCD screen for real-time data and settings display. Users can scroll through tabs and reset alerts using physical navigation buttons.

• Ethernet Connectivity: A 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port allows quick, reliable integration into the data centre’s network, with support for autonegotiation, configurable speed and duplex modes.

• USB Port: Enables local firmware updates to maintain optimal performance.

• Sensor Support: RJ12 port enables temperature and humidity sensors via dry switch contact for extended data capture.

• Databus Connectivity: Dual RJ45 in/out ports allow connection of multiple Schleifenbauer devices via daisy chaining, enhancing scalability.

• Flexibility: Ideal for data centres requiring local access to power data and configuration.

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2. 5.0 Inline Meter

The 5.0 Inline Meter represents a modern, contactless solution using NFC technology (Near Field Communication) to provide wireless data access via smartphone or tablet — perfect for data centres that don’t require a physical display.

Key features of the 5.0:

• NFC Display App: Instead of a traditional screen, the 5.0 Inline Meter allows power data to be read wirelessly via a mobile app, reducing mechanical faults and increasing flexibility.

• 1 Gbps Ethernet + Daisy Chain Ports: Includes a high-speed RJ45 Ethernet port and two additional RJ45 databus ports for seamless network integration.

• Zero-Touch Provisioning: Simplifies installation with automatic configuration — no manual setup required.

• USB-A Ports: Two USB ports allow firmware updates and support expansion with up to 32 sensors.

• Three Hot-Swappable Communication Modules:

• Gateway Module: Manages up to 10,000 PDUs via the EnerTree Platform with group switching, real-time analytics, and auto-discovery.

• Controller Module: Suitable for standalone systems or direct DCIM integration, with support for up to 100 PDUs and intuitive reporting.

• Daisy Chain Module: Connects up to 99 PDUs in a ring network, transmitting data to the central module securely without additional network links.

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Inline Meters in Data Centre Environments

The Schleifenbauer Inline Meter provides major advantages for data centres that need to monitor energy usage while retaining existing infrastructure. Upgrading basic PDUs to intelligent ones — without replacing the entire system — results in significant cost and environmental savings.

1. Upgrading Basic PDUs to Intelligent Systems

Rather than investing in complete PDU replacement, data centres can integrate the Schleifenbauer Inline Meter into existing basic PDUs. This allows accurate power consumption monitoring and reporting — helping meet EED requirements while reducing operational expenditure.

With real-time energy data and improved energy management, data centres benefit from lower costs and a more sustainable power strategy.

2. Ideal for Colocation Environments

In colocation environments, gaining direct access to a client’s PDU can be difficult or even prohibited. The Schleifenbauer Inline Meter enables precise energy measurement without interfering with or accessing the client’s hardware.

This provides accurate data for billing and reporting, supports compliance, and strengthens customer trust through transparent energy accountability.

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Advantages of the Inline Meter for Data Centres

• Cost Savings: Avoid costly infrastructure replacement by adding energy monitoring capabilities through the Inline Meter.

• Flexibility: Choose between the locally interactive G3 or the wireless, NFC-enabled 5.0 model — whichever best suits your operational preferences.

• Network Integration: Robust Ethernet connectivity allows seamless communication and centralised data management.

• Environmental Benefits: Upgrading instead of replacing preserves existing hardware and reduces environmental impact.

• Reliability & Precision: Both models deliver highly accurate measurements, essential for compliance, reporting and energy efficiency optimisation.

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Conclusion

The Schleifenbauer Inline Meter offers a smart, cost-effective and scalable solution for measuring energy consumption in data centres — whether in-house or for colocation clients.

With two models to choose from, data centres can implement energy monitoring in a way that best fits their infrastructure strategy. Compliance with legislation, cost reduction, and sustainable operations are all achievable — without the need to invest in new PDUs.

With the Schleifenbauer Inline Meter, data centres gain the power and flexibility they need to improve energy management while keeping costs and environmental impact under control. It’s the ideal solution for operators seeking both technical advancement and long-term value.

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