A systems administrator is installing a new 2U server with dual, redundant power supplies into a rack. The rack is equipped with two vertically-mounted Power Distribution Units (PDUs), one on each side. To ensure maximum availability and simplify future maintenance, what is the BEST method for managing the server's power cables?
Route each power cable to a separate PDU, using opposite sides of the rack for each cable path, and secure them with hook-and-loop straps.
Plug one power cable into each PDU, then tightly bundle both cables together down the center of the rack for the cleanest appearance.
Connect both power cables to the same PDU to ensure a common grounding path and bundle them neatly with plastic zip ties.
Use a cable labeling machine to mark each power cord, then plug both into the PDU with the most available outlets.
The correct answer describes the best practice for ensuring high availability and serviceability. Connecting each power supply to a separate PDU on opposite sides of the rack provides power source redundancy and physical path redundancy. If one PDU fails or requires maintenance, the server remains operational via the second PDU. Routing the cables on opposite sides prevents a single physical incident from severing both power connections. Using hook-and-loop straps is the preferred method for securing cables in a data center as they are reusable, adjustable, and less likely to damage cables compared to plastic zip ties which can be over-tightened.
Connecting both power cables to the same PDU creates a single point of failure, negating the benefit of having dual power supplies. Bundling the two redundant power cables together also creates a physical single point of failure; if the bundle is accidentally cut or unplugged, the server loses all power. While labeling cables is a good practice, it does not address the primary requirement of power redundancy and availability.
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Why is it important to route each power cable to a separate PDU on opposite sides of the rack?
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What are the advantages of using hook-and-loop straps instead of plastic zip ties for securing cables?
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What is the role of redundant power supplies, and why are they critical in servers?