Open Compute Project (OCP)

The Open Compute Project (OCP) is an industry foundation that publishes open hardware specifications for data center equipment such as racks and rack power systems. Facebook, now Meta, started it in 2011. Its rack standards cover the 19-inch EIA rack and the 21-inch Open Rack. Meta and Google contributed the Open Rack V3 Base Specification, which defines the frame, busbar, and power interface to IT gear.

The spec labels the busbar 48 V, but the power shelf delivers a nominal 51 V or 54 V DC. IT gear must run from 46 V to 52 V on the 51 V option and from 52 V to 56 V on the 54 V option. Each server's input connector must be rated for at least 100 A continuous on its power path. Gear spacing uses a 48 mm OpenU pitch, with optional support for the 44.45 mm EIA-310-D rack unit.

On a quote, treat OCP-compliant as unverified until it names a specification and revision, such as Open Rack V3 Base Specification Revision 1.1. OCP Accepted is an OCP recognition mark for products that conform to an approved OCP contribution and meet at least four of the five OCP tenets. Ask for that OCP Marketplace listing when rack compatibility is a purchase condition.

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Last verified October 7, 2026.