Let’s examine three systems areas that data center managers
should consider when looking to improve reliability.
Redundant Systems and Components
Providing redundant systems and components can help eliminate single points of failure in the IT infrastructure. But each data center manager must determine the appropriate level of redundancy for their operation. A thorough analysis is needed to arrive at an effective redundancy strategy.
Certainly, incorporating redundancy into a data center operation is critical. Achieving 100 percent redundancy, however, comes with a hefty price tag. And it’s important to note that high levels of redundancy don’t always mean a system is more reliable. Although this point may seem counter intuitive, increasing component redundancy creates a much more complex infrastructure. As complexity increases, management of the infrastructure becomes more challenging. Working with local data center experts can help you arrive at the right redundancy strategy for your organization.
Backup Systems
Backup systems include the proper configuration of generator units and uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems. In a generation system, every available generator unit can be programmed to start automatically during a loss of utility power. As long as sufficient fuel is available, the generators power the entire data center load until the utility power source is restored.
When regular power is restored, the generators transfer the load back to the utility and stop operating. The transition to and from the backup-generator power is seamless when configured properly. The most effective designs will incorporate the necessary generators to supply power, as well as backup generators should any one unit fail.
Redundancy should also be built into the UPS system so that one failing module won’t affect the overall capacity of the system. Both generator and UPS systems can be configured for automatic and manual power transfer. Automatic transfer is critical during unexpected outages. Manual transfers are used for scheduled maintenance and testing of data center equipment and procedures without interfering with normal operations.
Detection and Monitoring Systems
Although cyber-attacks get the bulk of publicity, environmental factors can be equally devastating to IT equipment and data center facilities. To minimize the impact of downtime, a data center operation must integrate detection systems. These systems can alert you to a problem before it becomes a crippling event.
Redundant Systems and Components
Providing redundant systems and components can help eliminate single points of failure in the IT infrastructure. But each data center manager must determine the appropriate level of redundancy for their operation. A thorough analysis is needed to arrive at an effective redundancy strategy.
Certainly, incorporating redundancy into a data center operation is critical. Achieving 100 percent redundancy, however, comes with a hefty price tag. And it’s important to note that high levels of redundancy don’t always mean a system is more reliable. Although this point may seem counter intuitive, increasing component redundancy creates a much more complex infrastructure. As complexity increases, management of the infrastructure becomes more challenging. Working with local data center experts can help you arrive at the right redundancy strategy for your organization.
Backup Systems
Backup systems include the proper configuration of generator units and uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems. In a generation system, every available generator unit can be programmed to start automatically during a loss of utility power. As long as sufficient fuel is available, the generators power the entire data center load until the utility power source is restored.
When regular power is restored, the generators transfer the load back to the utility and stop operating. The transition to and from the backup-generator power is seamless when configured properly. The most effective designs will incorporate the necessary generators to supply power, as well as backup generators should any one unit fail.
Redundancy should also be built into the UPS system so that one failing module won’t affect the overall capacity of the system. Both generator and UPS systems can be configured for automatic and manual power transfer. Automatic transfer is critical during unexpected outages. Manual transfers are used for scheduled maintenance and testing of data center equipment and procedures without interfering with normal operations.
Detection and Monitoring Systems
Although cyber-attacks get the bulk of publicity, environmental factors can be equally devastating to IT equipment and data center facilities. To minimize the impact of downtime, a data center operation must integrate detection systems. These systems can alert you to a problem before it becomes a crippling event.
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