Data center design and facilities
Data center design includes continuous power and cooling for IT equipment, site security and energy use. Data center facilities are specialized for a task and must operate in concert with the IT organization. New trends in data center design and construction include modular and containerized builds, as well as DCIM to track energy use.
Top Stories
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Tip
02 Jul 2025
The pros and cons of geothermal energy use
Data centers continue to strain the grid, stressing the need for alternative energy. Admins should weigh the pros and cons of using geothermal energy as a clean, reliable option. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jun 2025
Liquid and dry cooling in a water-stressed world
Liquid cooling efficiently manages AI-driven heat in data centers, but water scarcity poses challenges. Water restrictions force data centers to find alternative cooling methods. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jun 2025
Liquid and dry cooling in a water-stressed world
Liquid cooling efficiently manages AI-driven heat in data centers, but water scarcity poses challenges. Water restrictions force data centers to find alternative cooling methods. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jun 2025
What is computer room air conditioning (CRAC)? CRAC vs. CRAH unit differences?
A computer room air conditioning (CRAC) unit is a device that monitors and maintains the temperature, air distribution and humidity in a data center, network or server room. Continue Reading
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News
04 Jun 2025
Amazon to launch $10B data center upgrade in North Carolina
As Amazon races to compete with Big Tech rivals for AI dominance, its Tar Heel State investment is part of a $100 billion capital expenditure effort slated for 2025. Continue Reading
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News
04 Jun 2025
Meta inks 20-year nuclear deal to power data center
The tech giant's agreement with Constellation Energy will secure an alternative source for power-hungry AI ambitions -- likely saving a once-doomed nuclear energy plant. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Jun 2025
What is carbon footprint?
A carbon footprint measures the total greenhouse gas emissions caused directly and indirectly by an individual, organization, product or activity. Continue Reading
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News
20 May 2025
Dell makes private cloud optionality a priority
Dell Technologies wants to enable automation and choice on its data center hardware, with third-party support for Dell NativeEdge and new software, including Dell Private Cloud. Continue Reading
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News
19 May 2025
Dell Technologies pitches its hardware for AI data centers
Servers, networking and storage hardware take center stage at Dell Technologies World 2025, as well as a tightly integrated offering with AI titans such as Nvidia and Google. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 May 2025
Single-tenant vs. multi-tenant cloud architecture
Single-tenant and multi-tenant cloud architecture offer unique advantages and disadvantages. Understanding both is crucial for selecting the best fit for your organization. Continue Reading
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News
09 May 2025
Nutanix platform may benefit from VMware customer unrest
Nutanix's Next 2025 conference attendees are jumping ship to the platform after Broadcom's VMware buy, as Nutanix executives plan enterprise-driven evolutions for the platform. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 May 2025
Benefits and challenges of underground data centers
Underground data centers offer sustainable alternatives to traditional facilities. They occupy less surface land, provide a naturally cool environment and use renewable energy. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 May 2025
Differences between Green Globes vs. LEED for data centers
Consider Green Globes and LEED certifications when building green data centers. Learn the differences in how the assessments are done and what each requires. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 May 2025
What is infrastructure as code (IaC)?
Infrastructure as code (IaC) is an IT practice that codifies and manages underlying IT infrastructure as software. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 May 2025
Complexities of integrating AI into legacy data centers
Integrating AI into legacy data center infrastructure is challenging. Increased heat and load require advanced cooling systems, structural adjustments and enhanced power capacity. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Apr 2025
What are hot and cold aisles in the data center?
Hot and cold aisles in the data center are part of an energy-efficient layout for server racks and other computing equipment. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Apr 2025
Classical vs. quantum computing: What are the differences?
Classical and quantum computers differ in their computing capabilities, how they operate and the resources they need. Know the differences to plan for a quantum future. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Apr 2025
Explore the impact of quantum computing on cryptography
When quantum computers become more widely available, lots of encryption types will be vulnerable. Learn why, plus solutions and how to navigate a post-quantum cryptography world. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Apr 2025
What is quantum as a service? Definition and top providers
Quantum as a service (QaaS), or quantum computing as a service, is a cloud-based way for organizations to access quantum computing technologies and capabilities more affordably through a third-party provider. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Apr 2025
What is a northbound interface/southbound interface?
A northbound interface (NBI) is an application programming interface (API) or protocol that allows a lower-level network component to communicate with a higher-level or more central component; conversely, a southbound interface (SBI) allows a higher-level component to send commands to lower-level network components. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Apr 2025
Dell VxRail vs. Nutanix NX: HCI heavyweights square off
Compare Dell VxRail and Nutanix NX, leading hyperconverged infrastructure platforms, to understand their strengths and ideal applications to best fit your organization's needs. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Mar 2025
12 companies building quantum computers
Companies are building quantum computing capabilities in the software and hardware space. Twelve have contributed significant progress and offer capabilities for the future. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Mar 2025
6 sustainable resources to power data centers
Data centers are using clean energy to sustainably run parts of the facility. Six sustainable energy options to consider are solar, wind, nuclear, tidal, hydrogen and geothermal. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Mar 2025
What is a green data center?
A green data center is a repository for the storage, processing, management and dissemination of data in which the physical space and the mechanical and electrical subsystems are designed to maximize energy efficiency and minimize the environmental impact. Continue Reading
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News
05 Mar 2025
TSMC plans $100B investment boost for US AI chip production
TSMC said its historic $100 billion investment would create thousands of construction jobs and boost U.S. capacity for AI chips. However, its time frame is fuzzy. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Mar 2025
What is data center infrastructure management (DCIM)?
Data center infrastructure management (DCIM) is the convergence of IT infrastructure, operations and building facilities functions within an organization. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Mar 2025
Tidal energy for data centers: A sustainable power option
Tidal energy offers a sustainable and dependable power source for data centers. It reduces carbon emissions and operational costs but raises environmental and logistical concerns. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Mar 2025
What is a word in computing architecture?
In computing architecture, a word is a fixed unit of data containing a specific number of bits that can be addressed and moved between storage and the computer processor. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Feb 2025
How data centers can help balance the electrical grid
Data centers consume 1% of global electricity. To ease grid pressure, data centers should use renewable energy, partner with power companies and manage demand during peak times. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Feb 2025
How much energy do data centers consume?
High energy consumption continues to be an issue for data centers with the rise in AI use, but organizations are moving to energy-efficient systems to manage their power usage. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Feb 2025
5 data center trends to watch in 2025
Data center trends for 2025 focus on sustainability and AI, highlighting energy demand, hyperscale data centers, innovative cooling methods, sustainable energy and edge computing. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Feb 2025
How to use data center wind turbines for sustainable energy
Wind power is a promising way for data centers to cut carbon footprints. Despite challenges, evolving technology offers efficient turbines for substantial electricity generation. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Feb 2025
Data center temperature and humidity guidelines
ASHRAE maintains a recommended list of humidity and temperature level standards for data centers. Discover which range of guidelines is best for each equipment class. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Feb 2025
How do CPU, GPU and DPU differ from one another?
Data centers use three varieties of processing units: CPU, GPU and DPU. Learn the unique uses for each and how to use them in conjunction to speed up data center workloads. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jan 2025
Explore 7 future potential quantum computing uses
Quantum computing development can benefit data centers. Potential quantum computing uses include improving supply chains, financial modeling, and AI and machine learning optimization. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jan 2025
Data center migration checklist: A move to modern facilities
Data center migration involves extensive planning. Use this data center migration checklist to organize the move, such as listing assets and managing hardware inventory. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Jan 2025
4 hyperconverged infrastructure trends for 2025
Hyperconverged infrastructure is rapidly changing. Read what HCI has to offer in 2025 and what projected growth it may have within the next couple of years. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Jan 2025
5 top colocation providers to watch in 2025
The market share leaders are poised to pursue more AI workloads in 2025, while also expanding their data center portfolios and addressing energy consumption issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Jan 2025
Is TEC the next data center cooling breakthrough?
Thermoelectric cooling uses semiconductors for efficient temperature control of IT equipment, while using less energy, but it has limitations in ambient cooling and scalability. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Jan 2025
What is hot spot/cold spot?
A hot spot/cold spot is an undesirable, tightly focused local temperature variation that often occurs when data center equipment is improperly cooled. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Dec 2024
What is Hitachi Vantara?
Hitachi Vantara is a data storage systems provider, previously known as Hitachi Data Systems (HDS). Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Dec 2024
Top data center infrastructure management software in 2025
DCIM tools can improve data center management and operation. Learn how six prominent products can help organizations control costs, manage energy and track assets. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Dec 2024
Understanding the impact of data center noise pollution
Data center noise pollution from generators and cooling systems disrupts nearby communities and affects health. Community concern raises demand to reduce noise levels. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Nov 2024
How the rise in AI impacts data centers and the environment
AI's impact on data centers raises environmental concerns as rising energy demands from technologies such as ChatGPT strain resources and challenge sustainability. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Nov 2024
Projections and feasibility of data centers in space
Earth has a limited amount of land, and data centers occupy large amounts of it. Data centers in space would reduce land use and energy costs, while improving processing speeds. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Nov 2024
Solar shift: How data centers can embrace renewable energy
Demand for electricity calls for integration of renewable resources. Solar power provides data centers with energy independence, cost predictability and a sustainable power source. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Nov 2024
Data center cooling systems and technologies and how they work
Extreme heat and cold can keep equipment from operating at peak efficiency. Explore cost-efficient and cost-effective cooling technologies and smart options for your facility. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Oct 2024
When to use a mirrored site disaster recovery
Mirrored disaster recovery sites are a good fit for businesses that require rapid failover and have the right resources to build a duplicate data center. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Oct 2024
Hydrogen fuel cells advantages, disadvantages in data centers
Hydrogen fuel cells are sustainable energy sources that produce low to zero carbon emissions. Explore the pros and cons of hydrogen fuel use and the likelihood of its future use. Continue Reading
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News
10 Oct 2024
Data center providers design for severe weather surge
Data center providers are investing in resilient infrastructure and redundant power to prevent extreme weather-related outages that can cause serious financial loss to customers. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Oct 2024
What is a real-time operating system (RTOS)?
A real-time operating system (RTOS) is an OS that guarantees real-time applications a certain capability within a specified deadline. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Sep 2024
Generative AI energy consumption grows, but ROI role unclear
The energy costs of generative AI aren't front and center in enterprises' financial calculations. But industry consultants believe IT leaders should consider the power aspect. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Sep 2024
Calculate UPS battery backup time to prepare for power failure
Extreme heat and inadequate cooling systems can lead to power failures in data centers. Calculate the duration of your UPS battery supply to prepare for backup power needs. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Sep 2024
What is continuous modeling (data center continuous modeling)?
Continuous modeling is an approach to data center management that supplements infrastructure management (DCIM) tools with engineering simulation tools. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Sep 2024
What is National Electrical Code (NEC)?
National Electrical Code (NEC) is a set of regularly updated standards for the safe installation of electric wiring in the Americas. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Sep 2024
What is impedance?
Impedance, denoted with Z, is an expression of the opposition that an electronic component, circuit or system offers to alternating or direct electric current. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Aug 2024
What is parallel processing?
Parallel processing is a method in computing of running two or more processors, or CPUs, to handle separate parts of an overall task. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Aug 2024
Explore underwater data centers' viability, sustainability
Tests off coastlines around the world are measuring the feasibility of underwater data centers. With proper maintenance and security, 40% of the population could use them. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Aug 2024
How to implement nuclear energy for data centers
Sustainable and renewable energy sources are necessary for data centers to meet emissions requirements by 2030. Nuclear power is a unique option for clean energy to run data centers. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Jul 2024
What is green computing?
Green computing, also known as sustainable computing, is the use of computers and other computing devices and equipment in energy-efficient and eco-friendly ways. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Jul 2024
Platform engineering best practices for data centers
Platform engineering is an emerging discipline that optimizes DevOps workflows with internal developer platforms. It enhances efficiency through automation and standardized tools. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Jul 2024
What is an uninterruptible power supply (UPS)?
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is a device that allows a computer to keep running for at least a short time when incoming power is interrupted. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jul 2024
What is an automatic transfer switch?
An automatic transfer switch (ATS) is a device that automatically transfers a power supply from its primary source to a backup source when it senses a failure or outage in the primary source. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Jun 2024
Maximize data center cooling efficiency by controlling airflow
Cool air is expensive, and wasting it is inefficient. Maintaining hot and cool air separation maximizes cooling effectiveness, energy efficiency and air conditioner performance. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jun 2024
green IT (green information technology)
Green IT (green information technology) is the practice of creating and using environmentally sustainable computing resources. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jun 2024
8 green computing best practices
As climate change becomes a more pressing issue, these sustainability best practices can help your data center go greener, which benefits both your business and the environment. Continue Reading
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News
31 May 2024
Big tech invests billions in AI data centers globally
President Joe Biden throws his support behind Microsoft to build an AI data center in Racine, Wis., as big tech companies invest in AI infrastructure to compete. Continue Reading
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Opinion
31 May 2024
Lessons in AI from Dell Technologies World 2024
A main focus of the Dell Technologies World 2024 conference was AI and how it impacts infrastructure environments. Dell spotlighted three AI infrastructure strategies to consider. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 May 2024
7 considerations for data center site selection
An incredible amount of research must go into data center site selection. If the location does not fit company demands, the data center cannot perform as necessary. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 May 2024
plenum
In building construction, a plenum (pronounced PLEH-nuhm, from Latin meaning full) is a separate space provided for air circulation for heating, ventilation and air conditioning (sometimes referred to as HVAC). Continue Reading
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Definition
09 May 2024
technological convergence
Technological convergence is a term that describes bringing previously unrelated technologies together, often in a single device. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 May 2024
information technology (IT)
Information technology (IT) is the use of computers, storage, networking and other physical devices, infrastructure and processes to create, process, store, secure and exchange all forms of electronic data. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 May 2024
What to know about hybrid data center security strategies
Cybersecurity is critical to protect data and systems. Admins of hybrid data centers must understand the risks of a hybrid model and how specific cyberattacks can be prevented. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 May 2024
data center
A data center is a facility composed of networked computers, storage systems and computing infrastructure that organizations use to assemble, process, store and disseminate large amounts of data. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Apr 2024
How to maintain data center power systems
Regular maintenance of data center power systems is necessary to have properly functioning equipment and backup power options. Common failures are batteries and loose connections. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Apr 2024
emergency power off (EPO) button
The emergency power off button, also called an EPO switch or EPO panel, is a safety measure for quickly disconnecting electrical power to a particular piece of equipment or facility in the event of an emergency. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Apr 2024
How to calculate data center cooling requirements
Data center cooling requirements are affected by several factors, including the equipment's heat output, floor area, facility design and electrical system power rating. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Apr 2024
free cooling
Free cooling is an approach to lowering the air temperature in a building or data center by using naturally cool air or water instead of mechanical refrigeration. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Apr 2024
disaster recovery (DR) site
A disaster recovery (DR) site is a facility an organization can use to recover and restore its technology infrastructure and operations when its primary data center becomes unavailable. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Apr 2024
Infrastructure for machine learning, AI requirements, examples
Infrastructure for machine learning, deep learning and AI has component and configuration requirements. Compare hardware and how it goes together in an HCI or high-density system. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Apr 2024
e-cycling
E-cycling, also known as 'electronic recycling,' is the reuse or recycling of used electronic materials to limit e-waste. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Apr 2024
building management system
A building management system (BMS) is a control system that can be used to monitor and manage the mechanical, electrical and electromechanical services in a facility. Continue Reading
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Opinion
04 Apr 2024
Nvidia GTC 24: Are you ready for the future of AI?
The 2024 Nvidia GTC conference focused on the company's new Blackwell GPU Platform. With advancements in AI taking off, companies need to decide how and when they will join the world of AI. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Mar 2024
Use AI tools to simplify operations inside your data center
AI is a cornerstone technology that will be part of future-proofing the data center. It will control operations like cooling, network optimization and configuration management. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Mar 2024
How to understand advancements in modern data centers
Data center advancements are rapidly occurring with storage demand. Some advancements, like an increase in temperatures, are necessary for more sustainable data center operations. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Mar 2024
Guide to lift-and-shift data center migration
The lift-and-shift approach moves an app and its data from one environment to another. Understanding the pros and cons can help a data center admin decide on proper strategies. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Mar 2024
Importance of backup generator power for data centers
Data center generators are rarely run; however, they must go through regular testing and maintenance to ensure they work when a power outage occurs to prevent server downtime. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Feb 2024
Sustainability benefits of cloud computing data centers
Cloud computing data centers use large amounts of electricity, but a main sustainability benefit is the cloud's large scale and ability to store more data. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Feb 2024
How to design and build a data center
Designing an efficient data center is no small feat. Review data center facility and infrastructure components as well as different standards and suggestions before you begin. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Feb 2024
An overview of containerized data centers and their benefits
The rise in digital information is causing a shortage in data center storage space. Containerized data centers can be for permanent or temporary use. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Feb 2024
ISO 14644 cleanroom standards for data centers
There are regulated requirements to maintain data center equipment and functionality. ISO 14644 cleanroom standards lay out guidelines to keep data centers clean. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jan 2024
turbine
A turbine is a machine that plays a key role in transforming fluid or air energy into usable work or electricity. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Jan 2024
data center modernization
Data center modernization includes updating and improving a data center to meet the requirements of the current and the next generation of workloads. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jan 2024
How to manage data center water usage sustainably
Data centers use large amounts of water to maintain equipment. This consumption is causing water pollution and scarcity. Companies must start to release consumption reports. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Jan 2024
colocation (colo)
A colocation facility (colo) is a data center or telecommunications facility in which a business can rent space for servers, storage devices, and other computing and networking hardware. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Dec 2023
Dive into the history of server hardware
Server hardware has consistently evolved since the first web server in 1990. Here's a look at major advancements in management, virtualization and green initiatives. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Dec 2023
hyperconverged appliance (HCI appliance)
A hyperconverged appliance (HCI appliance) is a hardware device that provides multiple data center management technologies within a single box. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Dec 2023
greenhouse gas
A greenhouse gas lets the sun's rays warm the Earth's surface but restricts the heat from escaping into space. Specifically, these gases absorb infrared radiation from the sun in the Earth's atmosphere and release it. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Nov 2023
Data center air quality: The air servers breathe
Monitor data center air quality to ensure best working conditions for equipment. Particulates and gaseous contaminants cause irreversible damage if you do not use proper filtration. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Nov 2023
Modular data center vs. traditional: When to choose each
Organizations have two options for using a data center: modular or traditional. Before deciding, companies should know how much power and cost can come from each option. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Oct 2023
ducting (data center cooling)
Ducting is an approach to air management that uses a series of metal or plastic pipes to carry heated or cooled air from one place to another. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Oct 2023
solar power
Solar power is a renewable form of energy harvested from the sun for the purpose of producing electricity or thermal energy (heat). Continue Reading