Description

Initial Installation:

To ensure proper operation and to meet electromagnetic interference (EMI) standards requirements, it is crucial to connect the 2-hole protective earthing terminal of Juniper EX-series switches to the facilities earth ground (as described in the Hardware Guide), before connecting power to the Juniper EX-series switch. 


 

Symptoms

Lack of grounding as per the Hardware guide, you may run the risk of encountering one or more of the following issues:

  • Transient events on interfacing POE devices, mainly with copper interface, such as access points, printers, surveillance cameras, etc., leading to disruption in services.
  • Component/circuit malfunctioning due to transient events like surge, RF bursts, EFT, ESD, HEMP events, etc.
  • Increased level of electromagnetic emissions/radiation which may interfere with surrounding systems and lead to FCC/CISPR regulatory violations.

Solution

Note 1: Existing Powered-up Devices:

If the AC powered EX Series switches are already installed in your facility without the ground lug connected, the 2-hole protective earthing terminal of Juniper EX- series switches can still be connected to the facility’s earth ground with the EX-Series switches running.

Note 2: NEBS-compliant system installation:

NEBS-compliant system installed in NEBS environments, and DC powered systems must be connected to ground though the 2-hole protective lug (earthing terminal).

 

Note 3 (EMI/EMC compliance):

All Juniper systems have been tested for EMI/EMC compliance using the 2-hole protective earthing terminal to connect the system to ground. To prevent non-compliance and potential EMI/EMC issues, it is essential to use the 2-hole protective earthing terminal to connect the system to ground, in addition to the power cord ground. The best grounding practices should be followed as far as possible. Electromagnetic noise problems are not anticipated, but installing a best-practice grounding system is always recommended.


  CAUTION: Ensure that a licensed electrician has attached the appropriate grounding lug to the grounding cable that you supply. Using a grounding cable with an incorrectly attached lug can damage the switch.  

Recommendation

Chassis grounding recommendations and instructions can be found in the following links: 

Modification History

First publication 2024-03-20