Information technology (IT) projects and power source: a critical parameter in Nigeria. – R. C. Okoro and Z. Lipcsey
ABSTRACT
In this paper we give a systematic analysis of the power supply problems which may cause damages to IT equipment and projects. The problems come from several sources. Earthing facilitates the interconnection of several equipment, plays a regulatory role in setting base voltages, and is to connect parts of the electrical system to provide a path for fault currents. If the earthing has problems, the whole system may break up. The problem of lightening seems to be solved by the installation of lightening arrestor. The problem however is much more complex since the surge from lightening can come into a building through supply cables and telephone cables. The possible solutions are analysed. When loose contacts originating from personnel or material problems (like use of aluminium cables, loose switches unstable sockets etc) these may negatively affect the whole power supply causing over- and under-voltages and ghost signals in computers. In many installations minor equipment can be used without much danger but with IT equipment it is a different story. The paper will therefore discuss protective short-circuit current (PSC) allowable in a given installation. A comprehensive analysis of these problems will be performed with view to finding solutions to the problems.