Server Room (Data Center)
A server room (Data Center) is a facility that houses computers and critical data for an entire enterprise or organization.
To ensure stable operation, proper standards must be applied from the initial design stage, along with systems to monitor and alert potential issues within the server room.
1. Selecting the Location for a Server Room
To determine the appropriate location, businesses should consider the following questions:
- How many servers and rack cabinets are required?
- How many staff members will be working in the area?
- Are there any additional equipment requirements?
- What is the company’s growth plan for future expansion?
- What is the available budget for the server room?
- What is the required aisle space in front of and behind the rack cabinets?
- Choose an enclosed room with minimal openings, few windows, a high ceiling, and convenient access
2. Raised Floor Standards
- Anti-static, moisture-resistant, and fire-resistant flooring
- Supported by a raised floor system that protects equipment from insects and humidity from the concrete base
- Helps reduce noise and vibration during operation, minimizing impact on adjacent areas
- Maintains a clean and dry environment for equipment
- Supports air conditioning systems in maintaining optimal temperature for the server room
- Ensures a professional and aesthetically pleasing environment
3. Power Supply System for the Server Room
- The main power supply should be a three-phase system with electromagnetic relays for control
- The backup power system should include batteries (UPS) and a generator
- The backup batteries must be able to maintain system operation for at least 15 minutes after a main power failure, allowing sufficient time to activate the generator
- The generator system must be regularly tested to ensure it operates properly and avoids failure when needed
4. Cooling system standards
The cooling system needs to be designed to precisely regulate temperature and humidity, with the ideal server room temperature between 19°C and 22°C and humidity around 50%.
Large server rooms typically use an airflow-based cooling system. Cold air is directed to the front of the rack cabinets; after passing through the equipment, it becomes hot air. This hot air is then returned to the cooling system. This continuous cycle ensures that equipment operates at optimal performance.
With this solution, the mixing of hot and cold air streams is minimized, thereby improving cooling efficiency within the server room.
5. Lightning Protection System
Lightning protection is an essential component for any server room, as the equipment inside is highly sensitive to electrical surges caused by lightning. These surges can travel through the power supply or external signal transmission lines into the Data Center and damage equipment.
Businesses should:
- Install surge protection devices at power sources and signal input lines
- Implement a proper grounding system for all equipment
