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

Tip 15 Mar 2023
ASHRAE standard 90.4 updates emphasize green energy

New addenda to ASHRAE 90.4 simplify mechanical load component calculations and modify the definition of UPS, among other changes. Use the updates to guide green data center design. Continue Reading
Tip 14 Mar 2023
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

Tip 24 Feb 2023

A primer on hyperscale data centers

Hyperscale data centers can hold thousands of servers and process much more data than an enterprise facility. However, they can be difficult to build and maintain. Continue Reading
News 16 Feb 2023

IBM drops from top spot in patents, surpassed by Samsung

IBM lost its title as patent king to Samsung, which had more than 8,500 patents approved in 2022. One reason cited is IBM's transformation to a software and services company. Continue Reading
Tip 10 Feb 2023

Explore 7 future potential quantum computing uses

Organizations stand to benefit from the compute power of quantum computing as it develops. The tech has potential uses in supply chains, financial modeling and other areas. Continue Reading
Tip 25 Jan 2023

Use ISO 50001:2018 as a guide for green data centers

Data centers use a lot of energy, and it can be difficult to navigate how to reduce energy use. ISO 50001:2018 provides guidance to create energy-saving plans and use targets. Continue Reading
Feature 10 Jan 2023

Data center environmental controls a high priority for admins

More data growth and tightening financial conditions are coming. Protect data center assets in 2023 through environmental controls like cooling, humidity and others. Continue Reading
Tip 16 Dec 2022

Learn different data lake vs. data warehouse uses

Data lakes and data warehouses both store big data. When choosing a lake or warehouse, consider factors such as cost and what insights or analytics you need to gain from the data. Continue Reading
Tip 14 Dec 2022

Classical vs. quantum computing: What are the differences?

Classical and quantum computers have many differences in their compute capabilities and operational traits. Know their differences to help prepare data centers. Continue Reading
Feature 09 Dec 2022

Top 5 colocation providers of 2023

Colocation companies offer a wide range of facilities and services that can help organizations reduce or eliminate the costs associated with managing their data centers. Continue Reading
Tip 08 Dec 2022

Key differences between BICSI and TIA/EIA standards

Data center standards help organizations design facilities for efficiency and safety. Organizations can use BICSI and TIA standards as guidance for data center design. Continue Reading
Feature 08 Dec 2022

Top data center infrastructure management software in 2023

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
Tip 05 Dec 2022

Use NFPA data center standards to help evade fire risks

A fire in a data center can damage equipment, cause data loss and put personnel in harm's way. Look to NFPA fire protection guidelines to hedge your risk against data center fires. Continue Reading
Tip 28 Nov 2022

Learn what SDN data center controllers do in a network

In a software-defined network, SDN data center controllers are a crucial component. Consider factors such as performance and compatibility when examining controller options. Continue Reading
Tip 07 Nov 2022

Include VXLANs in data centers for quicker network speeds

VXLANs add network isolation and enable organizations to scale data center networks more efficiently. Consider VXLANs to expand a data center network and improve performance. Continue Reading
Tip 24 Oct 2022

Best practices for data center network optimization

Data center network optimization can improve business impact and promote long-term equipment health. Look to pilot new equipment, consolidate servers and improve energy efficiency. Continue Reading
Tip 21 Oct 2022

Tips to build a data center airflow management strategy

Airflow in data centers is crucial for equipment health. While the hot aisle/cold aisle is popular, examine other options like side-to-side airflow and top-of-rack switches. Continue Reading
Tutorial 22 Aug 2022

How to implement file classification in file servers

File classification with File Server Resource Manager enables admins to classify and organize data. This tutorial shows how to implement and manage file classifications. Continue Reading
Tip 29 Jul 2022

The implications of blockchain in the chip shortage

Blockchain has been a significant contributor to the global chip shortage. Explore the role this rising technology has played. Continue Reading
News 28 Jul 2022

House sends CHIPS Act to Biden's desk

Congress approved the CHIPS Act and billions more for scientific research to help the U.S. better compete against China in technology markets. Continue Reading
News 22 Jul 2022

CHIPS Act takes step forward on long road to production

If Congress approves the CHIPS Act, it will funnel billions into domestic chip production and provide companies like Intel and TSMC with tax breaks to build U.S. facilities. Continue Reading
Opinion 24 May 2022

Key takeaways from Red Hat Summit 2022

At Red Hat's 2022 Red Hat Summit, the organization announced changes to edge strategy, Linux admin skill gaps and hardware and software modernization. Continue Reading
Feature 18 May 2022

How to design and build a data center

Designing an efficient data center is no small feat. Review data center facility and infrastructure components and different standards before you begin. Continue Reading
Tip 13 May 2022

Evaluate 5G networks vs. 4G for data centers

5G networking requires organizations and data centers to support IoT, while 4G requires increased machinery. Learn more about the differences between 5G and 4G for data centers. Continue Reading
Tip 06 May 2022

Explore liquid cooling for data centers

Discover the different classifications of liquid cooling -- such as direct-to-chip, liquid immersion or rear-door heat exchangers -- before adopting it in your data center. Continue Reading
Tip 03 May 2022

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
Tip 03 May 2022

6 ways to increase energy efficiency in data centers

Although there is no one single trick that admins can use to achieve an energy-efficient data center, there are several small things that can significantly decrease energy use. Continue Reading
Feature 03 May 2022

Liquid cooling vs. air cooling in the data center

The quest to maintain operating temperatures for increasing computing densities has firms transitioning from air cooling to liquid cooling. We assess both methods. Continue Reading
Tip 29 Apr 2022

Data center temperature and humidity guidelines

ASHRAE maintains a recommended list of humidity and temperature level standards for data centers. Discover how to keep your data center environment in tiptop shape. Continue Reading
Tip 28 Apr 2022

How to calculate data center cooling requirements

Data center cooling requirements are affected by several factors, including the equipment's heat output, the floor area, facility design and electrical system power rating. Continue Reading
Tip 25 Apr 2022

How much energy do data centers consume?

High energy consumption continues to be an issue in the data center, but organizations are moving to energy-efficient systems to manage and reduce their power usage. Continue Reading
Tip 22 Apr 2022

How 5G affects data centers and how to prepare

Data centers can prepare for the rise of 5G networking by understanding how it functions, upgrading crucial infrastructure and understanding how 5G networks can benefit them. Continue Reading
Feature 30 Mar 2022

The global state of data center sustainability

Review green initiatives in the world of data centers: sustainable designs and practices, what other organizations are doing and where IT falls short. Continue Reading
Tip 11 Mar 2022

Data center safety tips to protect staff

Safety in the data center requires organizations to identify and address a variety of risk factors, from electrical systems to staff illness. Continue Reading
Feature 10 Mar 2022

Recent data center advancements include AI, new CPUs

Recent advancements in data center technology and staffing models reflect organizations' desire for increased IT agility, efficiency and flexibility. Continue Reading
Feature 04 Mar 2022

3 colocation trends to consider in 2022

Key developments in the data center services market include smaller, more flexible deployments, AI optimization and a continuing focus on sustainability. Continue Reading
Tip 23 Feb 2022

Key data center trends in 2022

In 2022, data centers will introduce a variety of new technologies. Expect a focus on hybrid cloud, solid-state storage, DCIM and sustainability measures. Continue Reading
Tip 03 Feb 2022

What to know about data center fire protection

Protect your data center from potential fire hazards through proper mitigation, detection and suppression. Then, create a plan for recovery in the event of a fire. Continue Reading
Tip 27 Jan 2022

Create data center electrical safety guidelines

Compose a comprehensive electrical safety strategy and keep your data center staff safe from electrical hazards. Learn what best practices and standards you should consider. Continue Reading
Tip 04 Jan 2022

Foster health and safety in the post-pandemic data center

Data centers adapted to a new set of circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic. As work and the pandemic continue to change, here's how data centers can continue to evolve. Continue Reading
Feature 23 Dec 2021

What you should consider when right-sizing a data center

How does an organization decide the appropriate size and density for its data centers? Consider factors such as rack layout and available power first. Continue Reading
Feature 08 Dec 2021

Data center backup generators for mission-critical loads

To select the correct backup generator for your mission-critical data, learn the fuel, cost and efficiency considerations you should take into account. Continue Reading
Tip 19 Nov 2021

Best practices for data center risk assessment

Data centers contain risks such as height, environmental and electrical hazards. Keep your staff safe by assessing the level of risk and creating a comprehensive safety plan. Continue Reading
Feature 19 Nov 2021

Get started with green energy for your data center

Running a sustainable data center requires organizations to consider factors such as facility sustainability, efficient storage and servers, and outsourcing options. Continue Reading
Tip 27 Sep 2021

Considerations for sustainable data center design

To design a green, sustainable data center, consider methods to improve energy conservation and efficiency. Then, look into green -- or greener -- energy source alternatives. Continue Reading
Tip 21 Sep 2021

Pros and cons of on-site power generation for data centers

Organizations considering a move to on-site power generation should weigh drawbacks -- such as cost -- against benefits, including sustainability and increased control over power. Continue Reading
Tip 21 Sep 2021

Evaluate air cooling vs. liquid cooling for your data center

Air cooling and liquid cooling for data centers offer different benefits and drawbacks. To decide which best suits your organization, consider the pros and cons of each. Continue Reading
Tip 02 Sep 2021

Learn the difference between SMP vs. MPP

Learn the differences between the main modes of multiprocessing: SMP, AMP and MPP. Each has a distinct use case that makes it suited for different data centers and organizations. Continue Reading
Tip 10 Aug 2021

Data center facility management team-building checklist

A good data center facilities team and strategy can ensure the rest of your company runs smoothly. Here are the steps you should take when putting that team together. Continue Reading
Tip 05 Aug 2021

Explore hot and cold aisle containment for your data center

Explore hot aisle and cold aisle containment for the data center, a practice that can reduce energy costs by helping better manage environmental factors. Continue Reading
Tip 22 Jul 2021

Data center contactless tech beyond the pandemic

No-touch tech like haptics and LiDAR became commonplace during the coronavirus pandemic, but such technology can increase demands on the data centers supporting it. Continue Reading
Tip 22 Jul 2021

What does a data center facility manager do?

Data center facility managers are responsible for the data center at large -- from the outside of the building to the infrastructure it houses. Continue Reading
Tip 19 Jul 2021

Does your data center need a smart PDU?

A smart PDU can help you monitor and manage power flow more efficiently than a traditional PDU. Here's what you should consider before deciding whether to adopt. Continue Reading
Tip 16 Jul 2021

Learn about ambient temperature sensors for data centers

Ambient temperature sensors can help you keep track of environmental factors such as temperature, humidity and airflow in your data center so you can avoid downtime. Continue Reading
Feature 13 Apr 2021

Data processing units accelerate infrastructure performance

DPUs often run on networking packets to move information in the data center, instead of supporting processing workflows. Get an overview of the technology and the main vendors. Continue Reading
Tip 10 Mar 2021

Nvidia vs. AMD: Compare GPU offerings

Chip vendors Nvidia and AMD each offer GPUs optimized for large data centers. Compare the two to decide which best suits your business requirements. Continue Reading
Tip 24 Feb 2021

CRAC design upgrades simplify HVAC maintenance

CRAC/CRAH hardware updates make data center cooling more efficient. And these new systems are easier for admins to maintain and they reduce dust accumulation across infrastructure. Continue Reading
Feature 25 Jan 2021

Modular UPS systems provide flexible power management options

UPSes can provide backup power scalability and efficiency. Admins should consider modular setups for extra redundancy, mixed capacity modules and cost savings. Continue Reading
Tip 15 Jan 2021

Get a template to estimate server power consumption per rack

Admins can struggle with power consumption estimation as infrastructure gets more complex. The kW-per-rack metric can help provide an accurate calculation of server power use. Continue Reading
News 23 Dec 2020

Data center market M&A deals hit new high in 2020

This year proved to be a banner year for data center mergers and acquisitions with 113 deals valued at over $30 billion, a pace that is unlikely to slow in 2021. Continue Reading
Feature 18 Dec 2020

Guide to colocation and how to choose a provider

It's important to thoroughly evaluate facilities, pricing and contract terms before choosing a colocation provider. Also, consider the challenges that come with going colo. Continue Reading
News 16 Nov 2020

Japan named HPC leader as world races to exascale

Exascale computers are due to arrive in 2021 in the U.S. and China. Developers are being urged to make these systems user-friendly and accessible. Continue Reading
Tip 02 Nov 2020

Software-defined power offers benefits, but lacks popular interest

Virtualized power systems promise to ease deployment and maintenance, but the market is still in its nascency. Continue Reading
Feature 07 Aug 2020

5 hyper-converged infrastructure trends analysts predict for 2023

What's next for hyper-converged infrastructure? We've asked industry analysts and consultants to shed some light on the technology's medium-term prospects. Continue Reading
Feature 30 Jul 2020

A mechanical refrigeration system primer for admins

Mechanical cooling is a necessity to keep data centers efficient year-round. The system type you use depends on the refrigerant, number of heat exchanges and airflow requirements. Continue Reading
Tip 10 Jun 2020

Take control of Hyper-V power management for cost efficiency

Organizations can better manage Hyper-V power consumption through various means, such as using Hyper-V power plans, server cores and SCVMM capabilities. Continue Reading
Tip 29 May 2020

Pick a data center layout: Raised floors vs. overhead cabling

There's no definitive design when it comes to data center infrastructure. Cost, manageability and cooling effectiveness are all factors during the selection process. Continue Reading
Feature 16 Mar 2020

Want an HPC data center? Colocation could be the answer

Colocation can offer the space, HVAC and security an organization needs to implement high-performance computing and delve deeper into its data. But not every provider is a match. Continue Reading
Tip 27 Jan 2020

A guide to data center maintenance outsourcing

Data centers have a lot of moving mechanical parts to maintain. It's beneficial to leave electrical and fire system upkeep to the professionals instead of doing it all in-house. Continue Reading
Feature 11 Dec 2019

Refresh your data center cooling lexicon

As the data center industry moves to improve energy efficiency, refresh your knowledge on the available cooling technology and methodologies. Continue Reading
Tip 09 Dec 2019

Get eco-friendly with LEED data center certification

The U.S. Green Building Council helps companies make existing and new data centers eco-friendly. HVAC, lighting and monitoring technology help increase infrastructure efficiency. Continue Reading
News 27 Nov 2019

U.S. facility may have best data center PUE

The data center energy efficiency metric, power usage effectiveness, or PUE, is not improving. But one supercomputer data center is showing that big improvements are possible. Continue Reading
Tip 23 Jul 2019

A quick guide to data center commissioning

Service provider selection, design documentation and thorough testing are all necessary for commissioning. Learn the process's nuances to get your facilities online. Continue Reading
News 19 Jun 2019

China's supercomputing systems soar from 21 to 219 in a decade

The U.S. dominates in total supercomputing performance, but lags behind China in the overall number of supercomputers. U.S. x86 vendors sell many of the chips used in these systems, but ARM may soon be giving them a run for their money. Continue Reading
Tip 18 Jun 2019

Data center cooling systems advance, incorporate natural sources

Despite concerns around water-based cooling technology, organizations are developing new hardware setups that rely on fjords and oceans to effectively cool dense server racks. Continue Reading
Feature 23 May 2019

How do I size a UPS unit?

Your data center UPS sizing needs are dependent on a variety of factors. Develop configurations and determine the estimated UPS capacity that will meet your current and future needs. Continue Reading
Answer 30 Apr 2019

What are viable Open19 use cases and hardware options?

Open19 is working with vendors to make hardware for its open source infrastructure. The goal is to support a growing number of off-premises use cases, such as edge computing. Continue Reading
News 05 Feb 2019

Carbon Relay debuts AI-based software for data center cooling

Newcomer Carbon Relay has introduced two products that use artificial intelligence to help IT pros manage data center efficiency. Continue Reading
Tip 05 Dec 2018

Streamline data center power usage tracking with DCIM

If you want a more in-depth picture of your data center's power consumption, explore DCIM options that provide server workload metrics and overall power system data. Continue Reading
Tip 07 Nov 2018

How to realize server virtualization energy savings

Virtualizing servers is one of the most effective steps to reduce energy consumption, especially when the hypervisor and VM placement are taken into account. Continue Reading
Tip 03 Aug 2018

Streamline data center ops by adding functionality to your DCIM tool

Once you've successfully set up DCIM software, it's important to evaluate what further capabilities you need and the ways you can improve data center planning. Continue Reading
Opinion 16 Aug 2017

Uptime Institute tier classification system faces new rivals

Because the Uptime Institute focuses primarily on power and cooling, alternative data center certifications have emerged. Their chances of replacing Uptime, however, seem slim. Continue Reading
Tip 18 Jan 2017

What should my dimensions be for a data center building design?

Don't get hung up on data center dimensions in the design phase. Focus on length-to-width ratios to get the most out of data center space, power and cooling. Continue Reading
Tip 08 Dec 2016

Build a data center shutdown procedure to prepare for the worst

A data center shutdown checklist helps IT teams focus on backup, testing and system verification before pulling the plug and losing valuable information. Continue Reading
Tip 20 Jun 2016

Construct a winning data center project plan

Before embarking on new data center projects, such as an upgrade or move to the cloud, clearly define all goals and expectations -- and not just for IT. Continue Reading
News 02 Nov 2015

Greenfield vs. brownfield data center development strategies

Don't count out that old, empty department store that hasn't seen customers in a decade -- data center brownfield developments bring new life to these types of abandoned buildings. Continue Reading
Tip 27 Oct 2015

Data center humidity recommendation falls dramatically

An ASHRAE study's conclusions are disproving the conventional wisdom around data centers' relative humidity levels. Continue Reading
Tip 19 Feb 2015

Take data center efficiency to the max on three-phase power

Three-phase circuits provide considerably more power efficiency to data center equipment, but phase balancing can trip up deployments. Continue Reading
Answer 17 Dec 2014

What's the best way to measure data center airflow?

You can't measure airflow from raised floor tiles in the same way as any other air duct. Optimize data center airflow with the right tools. Continue Reading
Tip 17 Oct 2014

In-rack and in-row cooling options for any data center

Say no to CRAC and consider more selective data center cooling options. In-rack and in-row cooling systems are efficient and optimally dispel heat. Continue Reading
Answer 19 Aug 2014

What to do when UPS sizing goes wrong

UPS sizing is hard, with confusing terminology and an ever-shifting IT load. If you get the calculations wrong, don't worry about a Michael Bay movie scene in the data center. Here's what to do when UPS is too wimpy or too beefy for the task. Continue Reading
Tip 11 Jul 2014

Does data center size matter in virtualization, DCIM decisions?

Are you big enough to take advantage of DCIM or virtualization for the power and cost savings? When it comes to certain moves, size is an advantage. Continue Reading
Feature 24 Jun 2014

Controversial hot aisle containment practices

Is your hot aisle too hot for OSHA? New data center trends are causing concern. You might need to adapt to adhere to the law. Continue Reading
Answer 21 May 2014

What's the highest server temperature you can handle?

There's no correct inlet air temperature for all servers. Age, performance and design help determine how much heat your server can handle. Continue Reading
Feature 10 Jan 2014

What should you do with old servers and outdated data center equipment?

Complications arise when replacing nonfunctional data center equipment. Decide what to do with the old equipment and how to handle retrofits. Continue Reading
Answer 23 Dec 2013

How outdated practices harm data center grounding systems

Isolated grounds are a solution lacking a problem. In fact, isolated grounds create problems for data center cabinet power and add expense all around. Continue Reading
Photo Story 09 Dec 2013

Your data lives where?! Strange and secure data center locations

In these data center pictures, tour barges, former mines and oil rigs. Sometimes a strange location makes the most sense for a secure data center. Continue Reading
Tip 13 Nov 2013

Major changes in data center fire suppression standards NFPA 75 and 76

Fire standard changes can add a lot of work and expense to a data center operator's job, but the updates to NFPA 75 and 76 address real safety risks. Continue Reading
Tip 04 Sep 2013

Physical building properties to evaluate during server room design

Does your server room have space to grow? What's the best mechanical system for it? Start with these questions to develop a good server room design. Continue Reading
Quiz 22 Mar 2013

Quiz: New methods for cooling data centers

Think you know everything about cooling data centers? Test your knowledge by taking this quiz on modern cooling techniques. Continue Reading
Tip 19 Nov 2012

Three questions on ASHRAE standards for data centers

Evolving ASHRAE standards for temperature and humidity allow data center owners to save money on power and cooling demands. Continue Reading
Tip 17 Aug 2012

Does UPS maintenance go to IT or the facilities management team?

The UPS is the last line of defense for keeping your data center alive, but does its care fall to the facilities management team or IT? Continue Reading