FEATURE ultra high performance data centres
Name that tune
Increasing numbers of operators are turning to prefabricated data centre solutions .
The modern data centre is a fully integrated machine . Systems that previously simply coexisted under the same roof are now expected to work seamlessly together . With the growing importance of DCIM , Jos Baart of Flexenclosure explains how ultra fine tuning of a data centre ’ s performance is becoming the new norm .
While the individual components or systems in any given data centre might be the same , the choice of building into which they are installed can have a significant impact on an operator ’ s ability to achieve this goal of full integration . And therein lies the question – whether to use traditional bricks and mortar construction or a prefabricated modular build ?
Bricks and mortar
The perceived advantage of a traditional bricks and mortar build is that the design can be customised to the operator ’ s specific needs and expectations .
However , while initially flexible on the drawing board , the design is typically fixed on construction making future alterations or expansion very difficult .
Bricks and mortar construction is also very slow as it is by nature a linear process – preparing the site , doing the ground work , erecting the building , finishing the building , installing the equipment inside the building , installing all peripheral equipment around the site , completing the site and finally commissioning it . These are highly complex undertakings , with many dependencies and potential pitfalls . And a single minor delay at an early stage can have a significant impact on the overall time and cost of completing the project .
But the biggest single issue with respect to bricks and mortar buildings is that it is very hard to fully integrate them with the rest of the ‘ data centre machine ’. Their traditional build ensures they continue to play their traditional role – that of a weather shell for the machine rather than being a fully integrated part of the machine itself . And that of course will limit the facility ’ s ultimate performance .
Pre-integration is the key
It is no wonder therefore that increasing numbers of operators are turning to prefabricated data centre solutions . In prefabricated data centres , the building itself is as much a component of the
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