Storage and processing technology is one of the most common, current generation business models, and has increased at a rapid rate throughout the last decade. The floor plans for data storage centers, educational facilities and processing centers that were once functional may now be completely obsolete as newer, more powerful technology has been implemented. Traditional planning is quickly becoming inadequate as the high costs of providing a proper environment increases. There are a few opportunities to ensure your server room stays up and running at peak efficiency that you may have looked, however.
One of the most important aspects for data center design is cooling. With warmer weather just on the horizon, it is best to begin reviewing your server room layout sooner than later. Traditional floor plans required a complicated HVAC design that managed well enough alone. With stronger machines producing greater amounts of heat, the need for more intricate and complicated cooling delivery systems clogged up server rooms. Thankfully, in recent years several methods of mitigated temperature control have been designed. Buildings in milder climates can even use cool air from outside the building as a source of cooling, for example, drastically reducing electricity costs.
Another option is to utilize a raised floor space for your server racks. This allows for easy access and adaptability in a business' data center design. IT employees can easily rearrange and add equipment as technological needs change without disrupting the power and wiring from other equipment. As the business grows and more employees need access to the network, new computers and servers can be added and existing ones moved to accommodate change. Raised floors make it much easier to distribute data cables, voice and power.
Data cables and cords might seem innocuous enough on their own, but they do carry their own amount of heat. While a single cord might not amount to much, when many are haphazardly grouped together the heat can collect and become problematic. To prevent this issue, be sure that your wires are properly insulated and stored. Relying on wires that are coated in FEP tubing will ensure your safety to the highest degree. This miraculous plastic not only reduces heat release from working wires, but also serves to protect the interior metal better than nearly any alternative.
While many business owners may be concerned about the cost of updating their server rooms, the long-term benefits are more than worth the initial investment. In addition to efficiency and flexibility, supplemental cooling allows for greater employee comfort, increased control of systems and ease of access. With technology upgrades now being a necessary part of business success, companies need an easier way to keep their machines – as well as themselves – cool.
