Transport and delivery

Access route

Define an access route from the loading dock to the data processing area. A small alley (cannot accommodate delivery truck), a narrow door opening <914 mm (<36 in), low height 2032 mm (<80 in), or limited access to the delivery area can become inconvenient during the delivery process. If the heights of the truck bed and the dock surface do not match, the ramp angle should be such that the machine frame does not bottom out while taking it from the truck bed to the dock surface.

Within the site, ramps from hallways to computer-room floors should conform to the American Disabilities Acts (ADA). The ADA requirement states that the ramp should have a 1:12 relationship. For each inch of vertical height of the raised floor, one foot of ramp length should be provided. As an example, if the raised floor height is 12 inches, then the ramp length should be 12 feet. The ramps should also be strong enough to support the weight of the system while it is being moved over the surface. The hallways and doors should be wide enough and high enough to allow passage of the system, and ensure adequate turning radius in the hallway. The overhead clearance to pipes and ducts must be sufficient to allow movement of computer equipment, air conditioners, and electrical equipment. Most standard passenger elevators are rated for 1134 kg (2500 lb). Selected information technology equipment, and some site infrastructure equipment such as air conditioning units might exceed 1134 kg (2500 lb). Access to a freight elevator with a minimum rating of 1587 kg (3500 lb) is recommended.

Review the access route from the loading dock to the computer room to prevent problems when moving the frames. Consider making a cardboard template to check the access route for height, width, and length interference. Employ qualified experts if special rigging is required to get the system from the loading dock to the computer room.

Because the dynamic loads of rolling frames are higher than the static loads of stationary frames, floor protection is required at delivery time. It is also important to consider the caster point loads. Some floors cannot withstand the force exerted by the casters of heavier systems. For example, caster point loads on some systems can be as high as 455 kg (1,000 lb). This can penetrate, or otherwise damage, the surface of some floors.

It is also important to protect the raised floor from damage when moving systems or relocating processors in the computer room. Ten mm (3/8 in.) plywood sheeting provides adequate protection. For some of the heavier high-end systems, it is recommended that you use tempered masonite or plyron. Plywood might be too soft for the heavier systems.

Delivery and subsequent transportation of the equipment

You must prepare the environment to accept the new product based on the installation planning information provided, with assistance from an IBM® authorized service provider. In anticipation of the equipment delivery, you must prepare the final installation site in advance so that professional movers or riggers can transport the equipment to the final installation site within the computer room. If for some reason, this is not possible at the time of delivery, you must make arrangements to have professional movers or riggers return to finish the transportation at a later date. Only professional movers or riggers should transport the equipment. The IBM authorized service provider can only perform minimal frame repositioning within the computer room, as needed, to perform required service actions. You are also responsible for using professional movers or riggers when you relocate or dispose of equipment.