Method of monitoring a power distribution unit

A method of monitoring a power distribution unit ( 306 ) may include providing a power distribution unit frame ( 310 ), where the power distribution unit frame has a 2U form factor ( 312 ), and where the power distribution unit frame is coupled to mount in an embedded computer frame ( 102 ). An alarm module ( 418 ) may be coupled to a circuit breaker connection site ( 214 ) in the power distribution unit frame. The alarm module may detect whether a circuit breaker ( 416 ) is coupled to the circuit breaker connection site via a set of auxiliary contacts ( 439 ). If the alarm module detects the circuit breaker, the alarm module monitors a set of shelf conditions. If the alarm module fails to detect the circuit breaker, the alarm module does not monitor the set of shelf conditions.