Put the power in the server and drink them both up



You are installing a new server into a large data center, but you’ve not been provided with any power information about the data center or the server. Which of these would be the best way to proceed?

A) Plug in the data center power to the computer. All modern power supplies are auto-switching and will adjust to the input.

B) Use a multimeter to verify the data center power and check the server manual to verify any manual voltage switches.

C) Use a multimeter to verify that the data center power is 115V or 230V. If it is, connect the server and power on normally.

D) Connect a surge suppressor to the data center power to regulate the flow to the server.

E) Yank the power cord out of the closest server and plug it into your server. If anyone complains, growl at them.


The answer: B) Use a multimeter to verify the data center power and check the server manual to verify any manual voltage switches.

The power input to a server must match the settings of the power supply. Although many power supplies are auto-switching, you can’t assume that a power supply will adjust to any input. Always check your manuals and verify your power source before connecting a new piece of equipment.

Want to know more? Watch “Computer Power.”

Without the supply of power, your computer won’t have much to do. In this video, you’ll learn about power supply standards and how different connectors are used to power the components inside of modern personal computers.