HP Performance Optimized Datacenter (POD) Networking Guide

Frequently asked questions 22
Frequently asked questions
1. Can a customer use mounting ear brackets on the equipment in the racks in the POD?
When installing through the front of the rack (IT section), yes. If equipment must be installed from the
back of the rack (hot aisle), HP recommends rail kits instead of mounting ear brackets for devices to be
used in the racks. The customer must ensure that rail kits are available for the third-party equipment that
is ordered from their respective vendor. HP does not recommend using mounting ear brackets in the
racks on devices installed from the back of the rack.
2. Is plenum-rated cable needed in the POD?
HP recommends that you confirm with local agencies to understand permit requirements.
3. How do I plan for network connectivity from the outside world in to the POD and what should I take into
consideration?
The POD can support various Tier X interconnects via an external telecom panel or direct termination at
the rack level to patch panels.
Since each customer requires a customized solution, the customer can normally procure and install an
external telecom panel or patch panels for direct termination to fit the specific site requirements. The
customer should plan to install an external telecom panel or direct termination as part of their site design
for demarcation to the POD.
In planning the correct solution, the customer must consider:
o What is the telecom panel rating requirement?
o What is the size of telecom panel (H x W x D)?
o What is the entry point for the telecom panel?
o What hardware components are required for termination?
o What is the placement of hardware within telecom panel?
o What are the fiber/copper quantities being terminated?
o What are local codes for network cabling requirements (plenum, non-plenum, or LSZH rated)?
o What are the lengths of the service loops required within the telecom panel?
o Is the hardware being specified in the telecom panel designed to be used only in racks?
o Is connectivity single or multi-homed?
o Are network specifications available for the required hardware?
o Are drawings available of the design?