Data Center FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions List
What is a data center?
A data center or computer centre (also datacenter) is a facility used to house computer systems and associated components, such as telecommunications and storage systems. It generally includes redundant or backup power supplies, redundant data communications connections, environmental controls (e.g., air conditioning, fire suppression) and security devices.
What is conditioned power?
Conditioned power means that the electrical service provided to the data center area (1) is provisioned through one or more uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system(s) or a DC battery plant and (2) is further supported by one or more standby diesel generator(s).
What is a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply)?
This is a commercial grade un-interruptible power supply that provides battery backup power in the event of a power failure for a certain period of time to either, get power restored, get generator online producing power, or systematically shut down the systems before hard failure from loss of commercial power.
What is paired distribution?
Paired distribution means A and B distribution path(s), where each path has capacity equal to at least the kW amount supported by the breaker size ordered.
What is an active power distribution?
Active power distribution means conditioned power is delivered by (a) at least one (1) UPS system with capacity equal to at least the kW amount; and (b) without paired distribution.
What is an active-passive power distribution?
Active-Passive power distribution means conditioned power is delivered by (a) at least one (1) UPS system with capacity equal to at least the kW amount; and (b) paired distribution.
What is an active-active power distribution?
Active-Active power distribution means conditioned power is delivered by (a) at least two (2) UPS systems, each with capacity equal to at least the kW amount; and (b) paired distribution.
What is a CRAC for?
CRAC (Computer Room Air Conditioner) is a heavy duty commercial air conditioner that is designed to run 24x7x365 for up to 50 years in support of computer room equipment and servers. These can provide both cooling and humidity control from a single unit.
What is a Cooling Tower?
Cooling tower or condenser is an external unit in support of the CRAC to remove the heat from the chilled water or glycol portion of the cooling systems.
What is a Generator?
Generators are used to provide electrical power to any demand within the data center in the event of a commercial power outage or failure.
What does Tier I, II etc. mean?
The standard Tiers were developed and are maintained by an organization called the Uptime Institute. They are a private organization who has developed data center standards regarding sustainable facilities and infrastructure as well as the operational fault tolerance of a data center facility.
What is a cross-connect?
A cross-connect is a physical connection, with either copper or fiber, between two routers. A cross-connect is typically between a carrier router and a customer router.
What is a Meet-Me-Room?
A Meet-Me-Room is a private data center suite where telecommunications carriers place their equipment. The Meet-Me-Room is also known as a network access point.
