This guide covers connecting power to an Oxide rack and validating power delivery. This work is typically performed by datacenter electrical teams or colocation provider electricians.
Pre-flight checks
Before continuing, verify that:
Physical installation is complete.
Rack is secured with caster locks or seismic anchoring.
Grounding/bonding is complete (if required).
Power drops are installed, active, and verified.
Electrical team is on-site and briefed on configuration (N+1 or N+N, A/B feeds).
Oxide racks include two AC-to-DC power shelves, each supporting up to 6 rectifiers. This provides flexible power configurations to match your workload requirements and available power infrastructure.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
Power Shelves | 2 per rack (redundant) |
Rectifiers per Shelf | Up to 6 (hot-swappable) |
Power Whips per Shelf | 2 connections (for A/B feed redundancy) |
Input Power | 3-phase AC per whip connection |
Maximum Power Draw | Up to 18 kW (full N+N configuration) |
Each power shelf can distribute power to the entire rack. If one shelf fails, the other shelf continues to provide power to all components.
Power Configuration Options
N+1 Configuration (Standard Redundancy)
Each power shelf holds up to 6 rectifiers. Internally, each shelf operates in a 5+1 redundant configuration (5 active + 1 spare). In "N+1 Configuration," only 3 rectifiers are installed per shelf, providing standard redundancy.
Active rectifiers: 3 per shelf (6 total across both shelves).
Power capacity: Up to ~9 kW sustained.
Redundancy: Can survive failure of 1 rectifier per shelf.
Power drops required:
Minimum: 2 drops (1 per shelf)
Recommended: 4 drops (2 per shelf, A/B feed redundancy)
With N+1 configuration and A/B feed redundancy, each power shelf receives two power whips. If one whip fails, the shelf operates on a single whip feeding the remaining rectifiers. To maintain full N+1 rectifier redundancy during a single-whip failure, the system load must not exceed approximately 7.2 kW (two rectifiers at 3.6 kW each).
Use N+1 if:
Your expected workload requires less than 12 kW sustained power.
You want to minimize power consumption and cooling costs.
You have limited power drops available.
Standard redundancy is acceptable for your workload.
N+N Configuration (Maximum Redundancy)
In "N+N Configuration," all 6 rectifier positions per shelf are populated, providing maximum power capacity and redundancy. Each shelf still operates internally in a 5+1 redundant configuration.
Active rectifiers: 6 per shelf (12 total across both shelves).
Power capacity: Up to ~18 kW sustained.
Redundancy: Can survive failure of 3 rectifiers per shelf.
Power drops required: 4 drops (2 per shelf, A/B feed redundancy).
Use N+N if:
Your workload requires sustained power between 12-18 kW.
Maximum redundancy is required for mission-critical workloads.
You plan to run at near-maximum compute density.
You have 4 power drops available.
Configuration Comparison
| Configuration | Active Rectifiers per Shelf | Power Drops Required | Max Power |
|---|---|---|---|
N+1 minimum | 3 | 2 (1 per shelf) | ~9 kW |
N+1 recommended | 3 | 4 (2 per shelf) | ~9 kW |
N+N | 6 | 4 (2 per shelf) | ~18 kW |
Power Feed Requirements by Rack Type
The number and configuration of power drops depends on whether you have a fully populated or half-populated rack:
Fully Populated Rack (32 Sleds)
Two 3-phase power drops are REQUIRED:
Both drops must be active at all times (they are not redundant).
Both drops should come from the same power source, not separate providers.
Loss of either drop will cause rack power loss.
Rack can still survive loss of one power shelf or up to 6 rectifiers.
Half Rack (16 Sleds)
Two 3-phase power drops are recommended for redundancy:
Drops may come from different sources (A/B feed redundancy possible).
With separate sources: rack survives loss of one entire feed.
With single source: both drops provide capacity, rack survives loss of one drop.
Power Drop Specifications
Each power whip connection requires a 3-phase power drop. The specifications vary by configuration type:
WYE Configuration
Voltage: 3Ø 380-480V, 5-wire (3P+N+PE)
Current: 15A × 2
Frequency: 50-60Hz
Connector options: IEC 60309 or NEMA L22-20P Twist-Lock. See [_complete_power_whip_connector_options] for CPNs and current ratings.
Delta Configuration
Voltage: 3Ø 208-240V, 4-wire (3P+PE)
Current: ≥32A × 2
Frequency: 50-60Hz
Connector: 50A "California Plug" Hubbell CS8365. See [_complete_power_whip_connector_options] for CPN.
Complete Power Whip Connector Options
The table below shows all available power whip configurations. Each rack always ships with 2 power shelves and 4 power whips total (2 whips per shelf).
| Wiring Configuration | Outlet | Current Rating | Plug | Voltage | Power Whip CPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Delta | CS8369 | 50A | CS8365C | 208-250V | 920-0000041 |
Delta | IEC 60309 | 60/63A | IEC 60309 3P+G (Blue, 9h) | 208-250V | 920-0000098 |
WYE | L22-20R | 20A | L22-20P 3P+N+G | 480V | 920-0000012 |
WYE | IEC 60309 | 16/20A | IEC 60309 3P+N+G (Red, 6h) | 380-415V | 920-0000092 |
WYE | IEC 60309 | 32A | IEC 60309 3P+N+G (Red, 6h) | 380-415V | 920-0000057 |
WYE | IEC 60309 | 60/63A | IEC 60309 3P+N+G (Red, 6h) | 380-415V | 920-0000049 |
Power Cable Entry
Power whip cables can enter the rack from above or below, depending on your datacenter power distribution design:
Overhead power distribution: Cables enter from the top of the rack.
Underfloor power distribution: Cables enter from the bottom of the rack through a raised floor (if applicable).
Specify your preference when ordering the rack. The power shelves are designed to accommodate either configuration.
Planning Checklist
Complete this checklist 2-4 weeks before installation:
Power Configuration:
N+1 or N+N configuration determined based on workload requirements.
Redundant (A/B) or non-redundant feeds determined.
Total number of power drops calculated (2 minimum, 4 recommended).
Power Infrastructure:
Power connector type verified (L22-20P, CS8365C, or IEC 60309).
Cable entry direction specified (above or below).
Power drops are installed and active.
Breakers are labeled and accessible.
A/B feed separation verified (if using redundant feeds).
Electrical Validation:
Voltage at each drop verified (200-250V or 400V depending on connector)
Phase balance verified on each circuit
Ground/earth connection verified on each circuit
Breakers sized appropriately for connector type and local code
Troubleshooting Power Planning Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
Insufficient power drops available | Start with N+1 non-redundant (2 drops). Plan to upgrade to redundant feeds when additional drops become available. |
Wrong connector type ordered | Contact Oxide Support immediately. Connector type changes require factory modification. |
Voltage mismatch | Verify your facility voltage matches the connector type and wiring configuration. Delta configurations (CS8365C or IEC 60309 Blue) use 208-250V. WYE configurations (L22-20P or IEC 60309 Red) use 380-480V. |
Uncertain about N+1 vs N+N | Start with N+1. You can upgrade to N+N later by installing additional rectifiers and activating them (no service disruption). |
Cannot achieve A/B feed separation | Non-redundant configuration is acceptable for non-production environments. For production, work with facilities to install separate feeds. |
Power Configuration Review
Before connecting power, confirm the whip-to-drop connection pattern for your configuration. See [_power_configuration_options] and [_power_feed_requirements_by_rack_type] for sizing guidance.
Redundant (A/B) Feeds
Power Shelf 0: A-feed (drop 1) + B-feed (drop 2) Power Shelf 1: A-feed (drop 3) + B-feed (drop 4)
Non-Redundant Feeds
Standard configuration (4 drops):
Power Shelf 0: Feed (drop 1) + Feed (drop 2) Power Shelf 1: Feed (drop 3) + Feed (drop 4)
Minimal configuration (2 drops):
Power Shelf 0: Feed (drop 1) Power Shelf 1: Feed (drop 2)
Connecting Power Whips
Each power shelf has two power whip connections on the rear of the rack. The whips are pre-attached and terminated with the connector type specified when the rack was ordered (L22-20P, CS8365C, or IEC 60309).
Connection Procedure
For each power whip:
Verify the breaker for the corresponding power drop is in the OFF position.
Align the power whip connector with the power drop receptacle.
Insert the connector fully and ensure it is seated correctly.
If the connector type includes a locking mechanism, engage the lock.
Verify the connection is secure and the connector cannot be pulled out.
Repeat for all power whip connections according to your configuration plan.
Connection Verification
After connecting all power whips:
All power whip connectors are fully seated.
Locking mechanisms are engaged (if applicable).
No exposed conductors or loose connections.
Connections match the planned A/B feed configuration (if using redundant feeds).
Energizing the Rack
Once all power whips are connected:
Notify on-site teams that the rack is about to be energized.
Ensure all personnel are clear of the rack.
Flip breakers to the ON position for all power drops.
Observe the rack for initial power-on indicators.
What to Expect After Power-On
The system will begin its boot sequence automatically:
First 30 seconds:
LEDs on the power shelf rectifiers will illuminate
Fans will spin up in the power shelves
You may hear a brief "whoosh" as cooling fans start
First 1-2 minutes:
Server sleds will begin powering on sequentially
LED activity on each sled will become visible
SSD LEDs will begin to show activity (blinking with disk I/O)
First 3-5 minutes:
The two switches (located in the middle of the rack) will boot
Switch front-panel LEDs will become active
All components should settle into steady-state operation
Allow several minutes for all components to complete their initial boot before proceeding with validation.
Power Delivery Validation
After 3-5 minutes of powered-on time, validate that all components are receiving power correctly.
LED Status Check
Perform a visual inspection of LED indicators on all components:
| Component | Expected State |
|---|---|
Power shelf rectifiers | All rectifier LEDs solid (not blinking); no red/amber indicators. |
Server sled power LEDs | All sleds show solid power LEDs; no off or blinking LEDs. |
SSD LEDs | All SSDs show activity LEDs (may blink with disk activity — this is normal). |
Switch LEDs | Both switches show solid power LEDs; front-panel port LEDs may be off (normal at this stage). |
Rectifier Status
Inspect each power shelf rectifier in detail:
Normal indicators:
Green LED: Solid (indicates normal operation).
Fan noise: Steady, not excessive.
No error LEDs illuminated.
Problem indicators:
Red or amber LEDs.
Blinking green LEDs.
No LEDs (indicates rectifier not receiving power or has failed).
Excessive fan noise or no fan noise.
| Symptom | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
Rectifier LED off | No power to rectifier, or rectifier failure. | Verify breaker is on; verify power drop voltage; check connector seating; if other rectifiers on the same shelf are powered, the rectifier may have failed — contact Oxide Support. |
Rectifier LED blinking | Rectifier fault or initialization issue. | Allow 5 minutes for initialization; if still blinking, contact Oxide Support. |
Red or amber LED | Rectifier error condition. | Note which rectifier and LED pattern; contact Oxide Support with details. |
Only some rectifiers powered | Breaker off, power drop issue, or connector not seated. | Verify all breakers are on; verify power drop voltage; reseat connectors. |
Sled Power Status
Verify all server sleds are powered:
All sled power LEDs are solid (not blinking or off).
No sleds show red or amber LEDs.
Sleds are not producing unusual noises (clicking, grinding, etc.).
If any sled LED is off or blinking after 5 minutes:
Note the sled position number (labeled on the front of each sled).
Check if sleds above and below are powered normally.
Reseat the sled:
Press in the handle button to unlock, and rotate the handle down to disengage the sled from the cubby.
Pull the handle forward to slide the sled out slightly (do not remove it completely).
Slide the sled back into the cubby.
Rotate the handle up until it clicks to mate the sled to the backplane.
Wait 2 minutes for the sled to power on.
If the sled still does not power on, contact Oxide Support.
Switch Power Status
Verify both switches are powered:
Both switches show solid power LEDs on the front panel.
Fans are audible (steady fan noise).
No error LEDs illuminated on the switch front panel.
The switch port LEDs may be off at this stage — this is normal. The ports will become active after network configuration in the next phase.
Power Configuration Validation
Verify the power configuration matches your design:
For N+1 Configuration
3 rectifiers per shelf are powered and showing solid green LEDs.
3 rectifier positions per shelf have blanking panels installed (normal for N+1).
Total of 6 active rectifiers across both shelves.
If all 6 rectifier positions per shelf are populated with active rectifiers, the system is in N+N mode. See [_for_n_n_configuration]. This is not a problem, but will consume more power and generate more heat than necessary. Contact Oxide Support if you want to switch to N+1.
For N+N Configuration
All 6 rectifiers per shelf are powered and showing solid green LEDs.
Total of 12 active rectifiers across both shelves.
For Redundant (A/B) Feeds
To verify A/B feed separation is working:
Note the baseline state: all components powered and LEDs solid.
Turn OFF breaker for one A-feed drop.
Observe: all components should remain powered with no interruption.
Turn breaker back ON.
Wait 2 minutes for rectifiers to stabilize.
Turn OFF breaker for one B-feed drop.
Observe: all components should remain powered with no interruption.
Turn breaker back ON.
Verify all rectifiers return to normal operation (solid green LEDs).
If any component loses power during this test, the A/B feed configuration is incorrect. Review power drop connections and contact your electrical team.
Troubleshooting Power Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
No power to any component | Verify all breakers are ON; verify voltage at power drops; check connector seating on all whips. |
Power to one shelf only | Verify breakers for the other shelf’s drops are ON; check connector seating for that shelf’s whips. |
Some rectifiers powered, others not | If mix is expected (N+1 configuration), this is normal. If all should be powered, verify connections and breaker status for unpowered rectifiers. |
All components powered but sleds won’t boot | Allow 5 minutes for boot sequence. If sleds still show no activity, contact Oxide Support. |
Excessive fan noise from power shelves | Allow 5 minutes for thermal stabilization. If noise persists, check ambient temperature (should be 35-95°F). If temperature is normal, contact Oxide Support. |
Breaker trips when energizing | Turn breaker OFF. Check for short circuits. Verify breaker is sized correctly for the power drop and connector type. If breaker is correctly sized, contact Oxide Support. |
One sled won’t power on | Reseat the sled. Verify sleds above and below are powered (indicates power shelf is working). If reseat doesn’t help, contact Oxide Support. |
Handoff to Network Team
Before notifying the network team that facilities work is complete, verify:
All power shelf rectifiers show solid green LEDs (no blinking or red/amber).
All server sled power LEDs are solid.
All SSD LEDs show activity.
Both switches show solid power LEDs.
No physical obstructions remain in front or behind rack.
Caster locks engaged or seismic anchoring installed.
No error conditions or unusual noises.
Document the final power configuration:
Configuration: N+1 or N+N.
Feed redundancy: A/B redundant or non-redundant.
Number of active rectifiers: per shelf ( total).
Number of power drops connected: __.
Any rectifiers or components not powered (and reason).
From here, the network team can proceed with Rack Installation.
Emergency Power-Off Procedure
If you need to power off the rack in an emergency:
Turn OFF all breakers for the rack’s power drops.
The rack will lose power immediately.
The control plane is designed to handle unexpected power loss.
User VMs may experience data loss or corruption if they are running during power loss.
To power the rack back on after emergency shutdown:
Ensure the conditions that caused the emergency shutdown are resolved.
Ensure all power whip connectors are fully seated.
Turn ON breakers for all power drops.
Allow 5 minutes for full boot sequence.
Validate power delivery per the checklist above.
What’s Next
Network connectivity: See Rack Installation for procedures to connect the rack to the network.
Software setup: See Initial Rack Setup.
For the complete project timeline, see the System Setup guide.