Electronic Locking Latch enablement

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Based on the growing need for enhanced physical security of systems, as well as to satisfy the evolving controlled accessibility, monitoring, and auditability that are associated with IT equipment, IBM enables you to exchange the provided mechanical (key-activated) locking front and rear door latches with electronic versions.

Unlike predecessor offerings, IBM z17 Single Frame (Model ME2) or IBM LinuxONE Rockhopper 5 Single Frame (Model ML2) introduces redesigned system doors with an incorporated adapter plate that allows various H3-style swing-handle door latches to be installed without the previously required adapter kit. This design expands the style and sourcing options for electronic latch versions.

For example, a Rack Level Security Kit can be procured directly from southco®. For more information about the southco® brand latches, such as the H3-EM Electronic Locking Swinghandle, see https://southco.com/en_us_int/latches/electronic-access-locking-solutions/electronic-cam-latches/h3-em-electronic-locking-swinghandle. You must order these kits in multiples equivalent to the number of system frames. The kits might require additional hardware (such as electrical wiring) to connect to a facilities security infrastructure. Installation does not require any permanent alteration to the system doors. If you need installation assistance, contact your Service Provider for additional information. This activity is not included with the IBM Z system installation or maintenance.

Attention: If this alteration is implemented, the following restrictions apply:
  • The electronic locking latch is customer-provided, customer-installed, and customer-serviced. The System Service Representative (SSR) is not responsible for installing the latch.
  • You must order the Door Electronic Latch Cam Kit (FC 1124) from IBM. The kit provides various alternate latch cams that properly configure common electronic locking latch brands (for example, southco®, TZ, APC) for use in 9176. The kit also includes instructions for selecting tahe best cam.
  • You must notify the Service Provider of this system alteration and ensure that appropriate provisions are enabled to provide any contracted accessibility to the system. If you do not properly notify the Service Provider, a delay in system serviceability might occur.
  • Installation of the electronic lock must adhere to the following safety requirements. Failure to meet the following requirements, per the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and Canadian Standards Association (CSA), invalidates product safety compliance certifications.
    1. Power source: The lock must not draw power from any component within the IBM 9176 rack.
    2. Voltage rating: The lock must be rated for less than 50 VDC or less than 50 VAC peak.
    3. Battery-powered locks: If battery-operated, the lock must use non-rechargeable, consumer-grade primary batteries.
    4. Safety of edges: The lock must have no sharp edges or corners.
    5. Moving parts: Any moving parts must be designed to prevent injury that requires medical or emergency attention.
    6. Weight: The lock must weigh less than 7 kg.
    7. Installation instructions: The electronic lock must be installed in the same position as the current door latch and must not obstruct ventilation or create a shock hazard. Follow the instructions for removing the standard door lock (instructions to be provided by IBM Development).
    8. External power source: If powered externally, the lock must be powered from a certified power source (UL, CSA, or other nationally recognized testing laboratory) and must not exceed 100 W output under single-fault conditions (for example: powered by a PS2 circuit in accordance with IEC 62368-1).
    9. Plastic material rating: All plastic components must have a minimum flammability rating of HB.
    10. Temperature limits: The electronic lock must not exceed the temperature limits of 60°C for metal parts and 77°C for plastic parts.
    11. Laser compliance: If the lock includes lasers, they must comply with IEC 60825-1.
    12. LED compliance: If the lock includes high-power LEDs, they must comply with IEC 62471:2006.
  • You must remove the electronic locking latches and any additional enabling hardware (junction box, door sensors, associated wire and cabling, and so on) and reinstall the originally supplied door latches before returning the system to IBM® as part of a Technology Exchange/Hybrid or a System MES.
Figure 1. Front and rear door latches
Diagram showing the front and rear door latches where the electronic locking latch is fastened
Figure 2. Example electronic locking latch assemblies
Diagram showing examples of electronic locking latch assemblies

Electronic Locking Latch service considerations

Important: You are responsible for providing the SSR with access to the system at the time of service. If you do not provide access, the system is not serviceable and you bear full responsibility for impeding any needed service activity.

If the electronic locking latch impedes the ability to service components in a frame adjacent to the 9176, you can remove its door as follows. If removing the door is not an option, open the lock on the adjacent door (to the right of the door being serviced) and swing the adjacent door open to gain clearance.

  1. Open the frame door. The door is hinged on the left side.
  2. Lift the door to disengage it from its top and bottom hinges, then pull the door away from the frame. Place the door in a safe, out-of-the-way location during servicing.
  3. After servicing is complete, hang the door on the hinges by starting at the bottom hinge first, and then setting the top hinge on its pin.
  4. Close the door.