power inventory 6

[quicksaab]

I have been asked to do a power inventory for our server room. I am not sure if this is the right place...but anyway.
I am at a loss to gauge how much more or less we can accomodate from a power perspectve. We are not tripping breakers everyday - but we are using a lot of powerpacks to plug in multiple things.
I have made a note of the amperage on each piece of hardware - but do not know where to go from here.

q

 

[daronwilson]

Knowing the maximum usage of each piece of gear is a start. We often do this for customers, and we get in with a clamp on ammeter and actually check each circuit. Of course this has to be done when things are all running, but between the two (max and mean) we can determine if there are load problems. You may need to call someone in to evaluate this for you.



It is only my opinion, based on my experience and education...I am always willing to learn, educate me!
Daron J. Wilson, RCDD
daron.wilson@lhmorris.com

 

[netmanrick]

You need to use a power analyzer(Dranitz ECOS.....).
Start at the panel that feeds the room(I hope you have a separate one).Connect the unit to each individual branch circuit for some time period(24-48 hours)to get a baseline
of power consumption/surge-sag/events.
With a CERTIFIED electrician,open up the panel feeding the room.Using a clamp-on ammeter check current/voltage consumption.Then work towards the room checking any panels/feeds.this should give you a good idea as to consumption. Pay special attention to neutral current(switching power supplies wreak havoc on undersize neutral wiring).Check your conduit if it's metal(if the sections are threaded together-ok;if connected with screw-type connectors,a bonding strap will help if some idiot decided to use the conduit as a ground.
I used to do this during my site surveys when I installed
mini-computers and high reliability systems for Prime Computer.
It's a lot of effort,but in the long run it pays of.

Rick Harris
SC Dept of Motor Vehicles
Network Operations

 

[mikeydidit]

http://www.apcc.com/products/

The above site has the different amp draw and power requirements for most all types of networking equipment. You can use this to determine what amp circuits that you need to use where. You can also use this in assessing the size UPS that you need. Hope this helps.

Mike Jones
LSUHSC

 

[quicksaab]

Thanks Guys..

 

[SkipCox]

Yes, thanks!

Skip

http://home.comcast.net/~scox9/index.html