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There’s no way to avoid it - the cost of data centers gives
every client sticker shock. Not only is the cost to design, build,
test and commission increasing, but the inevitable utility cost
increases on the near horizon are daunting. Knowledgeable users
are forecasting that the cost of operation will exceed the cost
of designing, building, testing and commissioning.
Syska is very aware of these issues and is focused on providing
our clients cost-effective design. We think that these are the
basic principles:
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Consider whether the facility reliability required can be reduced
by upgrading the IT network. For example, can three less-costly
Tier 2 facilities serve instead of two more-costly Tier 4 facilities?
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Consider the present and estimated future costs of utilities
in site selection.
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Focus on long term operating costs in addition to initial costs.
For example, consider a site that has, at present, low electric
utility costs and medium water utility costs. Providing air-cooled
water chillers will provide the lowest initial cost, but rapidly
escalating electric utility costs may prove that water-cooled
water chillers are the better choice. Energy and financial modeling
based
on estimates of future utility costs will reveal the best decision.
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Focus on scalability and modularity. If the initial UPS need
is 50 watts/square foot and the ultimate is 150 watts, design
for 75 watts initial that can be later upgraded to 150 watts.
If the
initial raised floor need is 20,000 square feet and the ultimate
is 40,000, design for 30,000 initial with an additional 10,000
shelled in for future fit out. When faced with a choice between
quality and quantity, opt for quality that can be upgraded
in the future to provide added quantity.
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Keep the design as simple as possible. Simplicity eliminates
unnecessary components and cost, increases reliability and
increases maintainability. For example, if all of the computer
equipment
is dual-cord, then static transfer switches downstream of the
UPS systems are not cost-effective.
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Use standard components and ratings wherever possible. Serial
number 1 always has a high initial and a high replacement cost.
As an example, 4000 ampere switchgear bus is more cost effective
than 5000 ampere bus.
- Automate normal and emergency facility operations as much as
possible. Utilize technology instead of people wherever practical.
We think that these basic principles must be considered in every
Data Center project.
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