Electrical Factors; Computer Room Safety - HP rp8400 Series Manual

Electrical Factors

Proper design and installation of a power distribution system for a rp8400 server requires specialized skills.
Those responsible for this task must have a thorough knowledge and understanding of appropriate electrical
codes and the limitations of the power systems for computer and data processing equipment.
In general, a well-designed power distribution system exceeds the requirements of most electrical codes. A
good design, when coupled with proper installation practices, produces the most trouble-free operation.
A detailed discussion of power distribution system design and installation is beyond the scope of this
document. However, electrical factors relating to power distribution system design and installation must be
considered during the site preparation process.
The electrical factors discussed in this section are:
•

Computer room safety

• Electrical load requirements (circuit breaker sizing)
• Power quality
• Distribution hardware
• System installation guidelines
Computer Room Safety
Inside the computer room, fire protection and adequate lighting (for equipment servicing) are important
safety considerations. Federal and local safety codes govern computer installations.
Fire Protection
The National Fire Protection Association's Standard for the Protection of Electronic Computer Data
Processing Equipment, NFPA 75, contains information on safety monitoring equipment for computer rooms.
Most computer room installations are equipped with the following fire protection devices:
• Smoke detectors
• Fire and temperature alarms
• Fire extinguishing system
Additional safety devices are:
• Circuit breakers
• An emergency power cutoff switch
• Devices specific to the geographic location i.e., earthquake protection
Lighting Requirements for Equipment Servicing
Adequate lighting and utility outlets in a computer room reduce the possibility of accidents during equipment
servicing. Safer servicing is also more efficient and, therefore, less costly.
For example, it is difficult to see cable connection points on the hardware if there is not enough light.
Adequate lighting reduces the chances of connector damage when cables are installed or removed.
Chapter 2
Electrical and Environmental Guidelines
Electrical Factors
15