Digital rack interface pod (DRIP) with intelligent power control system and method

A digital rack interface pod apparatus for interfacing a remote access appliance to a managed device in communication with the remote access component, the apparatus comprising:

• a first input for receiving power from the managed device that is used to power the apparatus;
• a second input for receiving power from the remote access appliance;
• a third input for receiving power from an external power source, which may be used to power the device;
• a regulator subsystem responsive to the first, second and third inputs and for treating a designated one of the inputs as a primary power input that is used to supply power to the apparatus when power is present thereon;
• and
• a processor configured to prioritize an order by which other ones of the inputs besides the designated one of the inputs will be used to draw backup power from in the event that power being supplied to the designated one of the inputs is lost.

A method for interfacing a communications component to a managed device in communication with the communications component via an apparatus, the method comprising:

• monitoring a first input that receives power from the managed device for powering the apparatus;
• using a second input to receive power from the communications component, for powering the apparatus;
• using a third input to receive power from an external power source, for powering the apparatus;
• treating a designated one of the inputs as a primary power input that is used to supply power to the apparatus when power is present thereon;
• and
• using a processor to prioritize an order by which other ones of the inputs besides the designated one of the inputs will be used to provide power from in the event that power being supplied to the designated one of the inputs is lost.