I.2 Introduction

problem

Data centers are historically designed according to industrial requirements from the 1950's main frame computers.

Data center cabinet power consumption and heat density continues to rise steadily.[Brill] Conventional climate control processes, such as raised floor cooling, breakdown at about 40 watts/SF. Very few data centers have sufficient capacity to handle operating power loads and dissipate higher heat densities of newer technologies such as blade servers [Brill]. Hardware manufacturers are beginning to use water cooling and other unconventional means to convey heat out of the cabinets [Brill].

The simplest solution to air cooling consists of increasing fan performance in enclosures and airflow in datacenter spaces. Yet this technique is not suitable where personnel frequent due to intolerable noise level of fans and increased airflow [Nicolai].

"IDC believes that most enterprises will need to consider fitting out new datacentre facilities in the near future.."[Fleischer]

A new paradigm of data center design is needed to:

• solve the crisis found in antiquated designs,
• anticipate and resolve emerging issues in data centers,
• and maximize the long-term value and sustainability of data centers.

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Brill, Kenneth G. "2005-2010 Heat Density Trends in Data Processing, Computer Systems, and TElecommunications Equipment." Uptime Institute. 2006.

Fleischer, Daniel and Eibisch, James. "Creating Cost and Energy Efficiency Through Outsourcing Hosting Solutions" IDC. Aug 2007.

Nicolai, Michael. "IT Climate Control" Rittal 2005.