The PowerEdge XE9680 server supports a high level of network throughput, which is achieved through its PCIe risers and network PCI card capacity. Here's the detailed information:

PCIe Slots: The PowerEdge XE9680 server supports up to10 PCIe Gen5 slots1. These slots are used to install PCIe devices, including network cards, which are essential for achieving high network throughput.

Riser Cards: Riser cards are used in servers to extend the PCIe slots and make them more accessible for installing additional cards, such as network cards.

Network Card Support: Each riser can support multiple PCIe network cards, allowing for expansion and increased network throughput.

Configuration: For the greatest amount of network throughput, the server can be configured withfour risers, and each riser can accommodatetwo PCIe network cards1. This configuration maximizes the number of network cards and, consequently, the network throughput capability of the server.

By utilizing the full capacity of PCIe slots with the appropriate risers and network cards, the PowerEdge XE9680 can meet the customer's requirement for the highest network throughput possible.

Server Dimensions and Rack Compatibility:

The Dell PowerEdge XE9680 is a large server with specific dimensional requirements. Ensuring that the customer's rack can accommodate the physical length and depth of the server is crucial for a successful installation.

Rack Depth and Space Requirements:

Measure the depth of the customer's rack to ensure it is sufficient to house the XE9680 servers. The server's dimensions, including its length, should be verified against the available space in the rack.

Server Length Specification:

The PowerEdge XE9680 has a significant depth, typically around 800mm (31.5 inches). The rack must be deep enough to support the full length of the server, including any cable management and airflow requirements.

Checking Rack Specifications:

Verify that the rack adheres to standard dimensions suitable for hosting enterprise-grade servers. Ensure that the rack has appropriate mounting options, such as square or threaded holes compatible with the server's rail kit.

Pre-installation Verification:

Before arriving on-site, confirm with the customer that their rack meets the necessary specifications. This includes checking for sufficient clearance at the rear for cable connections and at the front for proper airflow.

Importance of Proper Fit:

A rack that cannot accommodate the length of the servers will result in installation failure, potential damage to the hardware, and inefficient cooling. It may also pose safety risks during and after installation.

Reference and Documentation:

The Dell EMC PowerEdge XE9680 Installation and Service Manual provides detailed information on the server's dimensions and the necessary rack specifications. This manual should be consulted to ensure all pre-installation requirements are met.

Dell EMC PowerEdge XE9680 Installation and Service Manual: This manual provides comprehensive guidelines on the server's physical dimensions and the necessary rack specifications for proper installation.

Dell EMC Technical Specifications Guide: Offers detailed specifications and requirements for rack compatibility and server installation procedures.

Weight and Size of the PowerEdge XE9680:

The Dell PowerEdge XE9680 server is designed for high performance, which often results in a larger and heavier form factor. Handling such servers typically requires multiple people to ensure safety and prevent damage.

Ergonomic Considerations:

Due to its weight and size, it is crucial to follow proper ergonomic practices when lifting and moving the server. This minimizes the risk of injury and ensures the server is handled safely.

Number of People Required:

For the XE9680, it is recommended to have four people when physically picking up the server to place it on the lift shelf. This recommendation is based on the server's weight and the need to maneuver it safely onto the lift.

Safety and Coordination:

Each person should position themselves on one side of the server, ensuring an even distribution of weight. This coordinated effort helps in lifting the server evenly and reducing the risk of dropping or mishandling it.

Procedure for Lifting:

Two individuals should position themselves at the front corners, and two at the rear corners of the server. On a coordinated count, all four should lift the server together and place it gently onto the lift shelf.

The lift shelf should be stable and able to support the weight of the server once it is placed on it.

Using the Lift:

Once the server is on the lift shelf, it can be maneuvered into the desired position in the rack. Ensure that the lift is rated for the weight of the XE9680 to avoid any mechanical failures.

Reference to Official Documentation:

Dell's installation guides and service manuals typically provide guidelines on the number of personnel required for handling large and heavy servers, ensuring both safety and compliance with best practices.

Dell EMC PowerEdge XE9680 Installation and Service Manual: This manual provides detailed guidelines on handling and installing the XE9680 server, including the recommended number of personnel required for safe handling.

Dell EMC Technical Specifications Guide: Offers insights into the physical dimensions and weight of the PowerEdge XE9680, informing the need for multiple personnel for safe handling and installation.

The PowerEdge XE9680 server is equipped with power supply units (PSUs) that are essential for its operation. Here's the power consumption information that the deployment engineer can provide:

PSU Specifications: Each PowerEdge XE9680 server comes withfour 2800-Watt, 15.6 Amp PSUs1. This specification is crucial for the data center manager to understand the power requirements for each server.

Total Power Requirement: With two servers per rack, each rack will have a total ofeight 2800-Watt PSUs. This information helps in calculating the total power draw for each rack.

Power Distribution Units (PDUs): While the number of PDUs required for high availability can vary, it's important to note that the server's PSUs feature aC22 input socket1. The data center manager should ensure that the PDUs in the rack are compatible with this type of connection.

Power Planning: The data center manager must plan for the power needed to supply power to the four racks, considering the power draw of the servers and any additional equipment that will be installed.

By providing this detailed power consumption information, the deployment engineer assists the data center manager in planning for the appropriate power infrastructure to support the PowerEdge XE9680 servers.

Understanding Rail Types and Compatibility:

Dell PowerEdge servers, including the XE8640, come with rail kits designed for specific types of racks. The rail kits are tailored to fit racks with square holes or threaded holes, depending on the model and configuration.

Compatibility with Round-Hole Racks:

The PowerEdge XE8640 does not support installation in round-hole racks. The rail kits provided with the XE8640 are designed for 4-post racks with square holes or 4-post threaded racks. Attempting to install these rails in a round-hole rack will result in improper fitment and stability issues.

Common Installation Issues:

If the outer rail portion does not fit flush with the rack frame, it is often due to a compatibility issue with the rack type. Round-hole racks require specific rail kits that are different from those used for square or threaded hole racks.

Verifying Rack Type:

Before installation, verify the type of rack being used. Ensure that it matches the specifications outlined in the server's installation guide. Using the correct rack type ensures proper fitment and structural integrity.

Alternative Solutions:

If the current rack is a round-hole type, consider using a compatible rack with square or threaded holes for the XE8640. Alternatively, there might be adapters or conversion kits available that allow the use of standard rails in round-hole racks, although these are not typically recommended due to potential stability issues.

Reference and Documentation:

Refer to the Dell EMC PowerEdge XE8640 Installation and Service Manual for detailed information on rail and rack compatibility. This manual provides specifications for supported rack types and instructions for proper installation.

Dell EMC PowerEdge XE8640 Installation and Service Manual: This document provides comprehensive guidelines on the correct installation procedures and compatible rack types for the XE8640 server.

Dell EMC Technical Specifications Guide: Offers detailed specifications on the rack compatibility and rail options for Dell PowerEdge servers, ensuring proper installation and fitment.