Why Use a PDM? Five Key Reasons to Utilize Power Distribution Modules

Power Distribution Modules (PDMs) are increasingly vital across numerous industries, offering a reliable way to distribute electrical power from a single source to multiple outputs. These compact units streamline wiring, boost energy efficiency, enhance system safety, and provide exceptional scalability and adaptability. Let’s explore how PDMs contribute to more effective, resilient, and future-ready electrical infrastructure.

Benefits:

• Streamlined Wiring and Reduced Footprint: PDMs consolidate power distribution into a single compact unit, drastically reducing the complexity of electrical wiring. This simplification saves both space and weight—two critical considerations in sectors such as automotive, marine, and aerospace. With fewer cables and connectors required, installation costs are lowered, and maintenance becomes more straightforward.
• Boosted Operational Efficiency: Eliminating tangled cables and inefficient connections, PDMs reduce power losses and energy waste. This efficient configuration promotes better power management, ultimately translating into financial savings and a more environmentally sustainable system.
• Enhanced Electrical Safety: Many PDMs are designed to house circuit protection devices, including plug-in fuses and circuit breakers. These components play a crucial role in shielding the electrical system—and any connected equipment—from short circuits, overloads, or other faults. The result is a safer operating environment for both machinery and personnel.
• Greater System Reliability: PDMs offer an integrated and rugged solution, reducing the number of vulnerable connectors and failure points. Engineered to withstand demanding environments, these modules cope well with temperature extremes, vibration, and moisture. A sealed enclosure often adds further protection for sensitive components, ensuring long-term performance.
• Flexible and Scalable Design: Available in a range of formats, PDMs accommodate various input/output combinations, current loads, and voltage levels. This versatility makes them well-suited to both new builds and upgrades, enabling engineers to scale power systems efficiently without incurring significant additional costs.

Chief Enterprises - BRIC Family

Over the past several years, Chief Enterprises has invested heavily in the development of its own PDM line, known as the Breathable & Robust Interconnection Centers (BRIC)® series—short for Breathable & Robust Interconnection Centres. Designed to meet the diverse demands of the vehicle and machinery markets, the BRIC range includes three distinct families: BRIC 280, BRIC Fusion, and BRIC mini.

BRIC 280

This variant comes in 24, 48, or 84-way configurations and is well-suited for agricultural vehicles, construction equipment, recreational vehicles (RVs), powersports, and commercial fleets. It combines a compact form with high performance, including a hydrophobic vent and a silicone compression seal for environmental protection.

BRIC Fusion

The Fusion offers customisability within an 84-way layout, supporting both high- and low-amperage components. It serves the same industries as the 280 series and is an ideal choice when flexible electrical architecture is required.

BRIC mini

Built with 12 cavities for 280-style plug-in components, the mini is a go-to solution for space-constrained applications in engines, lawn and garden equipment, powersports, and compact machinery.

Overview of the BRIC Family

Whether you're aiming to reduce wiring clutter, improve safety protocols, or design a scalable electrical system, a quality PDM can serve as a central building block. Chief Enterprises' BRIC family offers not just functionality but a reliable, field-tested approach to modern power distribution.