Everything You Need to Know About Saf-D-Grid Cords
Although Saf-D-Grid connectors are increasingly utilized in newer data center hardware, it’s not uncommon for IT network professionals to be unfamiliar with what they are or what makes them special. It’s certainly a different shape from the standard IEC connectors that most are accustomed to. Some may wonder why vendors felt it necessary to include these connectors to their power supplies. Or why finding Saf-D-Grid (SDG) cables is so challenging compared to standard IEC data center cords. Why the change? It’s all unnecessary, right?
Several major trends are driving the adoption of Saf-D-Grid connectors in the latest switches and servers. Understanding these trends helps explain why this connector has become essential.
The Forces Behind Saf-D-Grid Adoption
AI and High-Density Computing Demands
The explosive growth of artificial intelligence workloads has fundamentally changed power requirements in data centers. Traditional server racks consuming 6-8 kW are being replaced by AI-optimized racks that require 50-100+ kW. This dramatic increase in power density requires connectors that can safely handle higher currents and temperatures without compromising reliability.
The Shift Toward DC Power Distribution
Data centers increasingly adopt DC power distribution to improve efficiency and reduce energy conversion losses. Unlike traditional AC systems that require multiple conversion stages, DC power can be distributed directly to the equipment, reducing heat generation and cooling costs while improving overall system efficiency.
Open Compute Project Influence
The Open Compute Project’s Open Rack V3 (ORv3) standards have accelerated the adoption of DC power within hyperscale data centers. These standards specifically promote the use of higher-voltage DC power to improve efficiency.
When viewed through this lens, Saf-D-Grid’s adoption makes perfect sense. Hardware companies such as Cisco, Arista, Juniper, and many others have embraced the SDG connectors because they provide incredible flexibility. The SDG connectors work with both AC and DC power up to 30A and 600V. This enables manufacturers to reduce their global power supply SKUs, simplify operations, and achieve economies of scale quicker while providing customers maximum deployment flexibility in an environment where data centers are at various phases of experimenting or slowly transitioning to DC power distribution.
What Makes Saf-D-Grid Different?
The Saf-D-Grid connector system addresses the limitations of traditional IEC power connectors in high-density, mission-critical environments.
Advanced Safety Features
T-Latch Locking Mechanism: Unlike standard IEC connectors that can become loose over time due to equipment vibration or accidental disconnects, Saf-D-Grid features a locking mechanism that ensures secure connections. A Saf-D-Grid power cable is a locking power cord by design.
Earth-First Connection: The connector is designed so that ground conductors connect first and disconnect last. This design provides maximum electrical safety by ensuring that the ground path is always established before live conductors are engaged.
Touch-Safe Design: All electrical connection points are contained within the housing, meeting UL and IEC finger probe testing standards. This eliminates the risk of accidental contact with live conductors during installation or maintenance.
Arcing Protection: The SDG housing contains electrical arcs that occur during hot-plugging operations, minimizing the risk of electrical shock to personnel.
Superior Power Handling
The Saf-D-Grid connector supports up to 277V AC and 380V DC. It's rated for current-interrupt at 400V and 30A. That's up to 7.2x the power of an IEC C13/C14 in the same footprint.
New Saf-D-Grid Connectors
Saf-D-Grid Max
Similar to the original SDG connector, it supports up to 277V AC and 380V DC power. It provides up to 55A (North America) and 63A (Rest of the world) of current up to 600V, all in a small footprint of an IEC C19.
Saf-D-Grid Three-Phase
These connectors are designed for three-phase data centers. It delivers 2x the power of the original single-phase Saf-D-Grid connector while maintaining the same IEC C13/C14 footprint. It supports up to 480V AC on three 20A lines.
Saf-D-Grid Power Cords from SIGNAL+POWER
At SIGNAL+POWER, we stock a range of Saf-D-Grid power cords and provide custom Saf-D-Grid cable solutions from our North Carolina production facility. Our team works directly with Anderson Power and ca nguide you to find the right solution for your requirements.
Our data center power experts have helped many gloobal hyperscalers and systems integrators with Saf-D-Grid solutions, along with other data center power cords. From assisting with spec'ing in SDG connectors into your OEM PDUs to delivery of hundreds or thousands of SDG cables for a new deployment, we're here to help.
Get in touch today to discuss your requirements and discover how Saf-D-Grid can transform your power connections.