Environmental Management
Technology advances can result in the introduction of high-performance, high-density data centres that lead to significant space savings. However, with these types of installations, consideration must be given to the potential problems associated with heat and power.With system availability demands ranging from 99.9% to 99.999% not uncommon in today’s business environment, the proactive management of environmental factors is an essential part of the IT equation. Large cost savings over the lifecycle of IT equipment can be gained if the initial data centre design is planned in line with the environmental requirements of modern server and storage technology. Computer rooms that evolve on an ad hoc basis over time cost more in the long run than properly planned and engineered IT equipment environments.
Air conditioning designed specifically for modern computer rooms is more efficient, cost efficient, reliable and able to maintain temperature and humidity to meet manufacturer’s specifications.
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) has become a must for data protection in the event of mains power failure because it allows sufficient continuous running time for orderly shutdown. UPS sizing is based on demand, redundant capacity requirements and business continuity requirements. However if continuous power supply is required, the battery UPS systems must be backed up by a standby generator.
The computer room layout and positioning of air conditioner ducts along with access to provide serviceability are important factors when planning a new data centre. An experienced consultant referencing manufactures’ specifications and guidelines should do this planning. Heat load within the computer room should be such that it is evenly distributed and heat dissipation needs to be correctly catered for in the air conditioning design.
Experience has shown that even though correct type and capacity air conditioning units are installed in server rooms if the layout is incorrect equipment overheating and failure can be the result.
Priority 1 Solutions has many years experience in the specification and design of all facets of the modern data centre environment.