Grounding specifications

Every utility branch circuit, whether three or single phase, must contain an insulated equipment-grounding conductor that is separate from the phase and neutral conductors within the branch.

For 200 V AC through 240 V AC installations worldwide, the equipment-grounding conductor must match local electrical codes and must be green with or without one or more yellow stripes on the insulation. It is recommended that the ground wire be the same size as the phase conductor wires.

Conduit must not be used as the only grounding means. However, any conduit or cable shield must be connected at both ends in such a way that it is included in the grounding path, and in parallel with the grounding conductor it contains. Most electrical codes require that branch circuit wiring be located in the metallic conduit, or be made from shielded cable, if located under a raised floor. Even when not required by local regulations, some form of shield around the branch circuit wiring is strongly recommended as a means of reducing coupling of high-frequency electrical noise into signal and control cables.

Attention: Electrical bonding for safety is provided through the power line cords. If local codes or client requirements call for additional bonding, use only the frame locations which are marked with this symbol: . Do not use the locations marked with this symbol: , as they are only intended to be used to ground existing parts that were installed in manufacturing.

For information about additional recommendations and requirements for equipment grounding, go to Resource Link® at http://www.ibm.com/servers/resourcelink. See General Information for Planning a Physical Site.