In my last column I discussed the net zero energy data center. While to some it may seem like an oxymoron or a punch line to a joke, however to one degree or another, it may become a necessity in the not too distant future. Nonetheless, today energy efficiency, as well as the energy usage by all data centers, continues to be an ongoing and high-profile target for environmental and sustainability groups, as well as the government.
Most companies and corporations have corporate standards that address fiduciary and fiscal duties, responsibilities, and protocols, etc. They have standards addressing the execution and governance of their core business and how the company interacts with regulators, labor unions, and other companies.
As a father, I’m pretty familiar with most of the classic children’s stories: Green Eggs and Ham, Goodnight Moon, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, etc. Another one of particular note is Chicken Little.
Since May is still considered winter in Chicago, I thought it prudent to write about some of the common problems associated with installing critical equipment outdoors.
Data is virtual — until it isn’t. The many terabytes of cloud data being generated every day have to reside on a server somewhere. With demand for both virtual and physical space soaring, finding the right location for data centers is becoming increasingly competitive.
It is a sad fact of life that all of us, at some point in our lives, will experience the dissonance between what our mind envisions and what our bodies allow.
The increased focus on efficiency within the data center world brings higher demands for thoughtful, well-planned spaces to house current IT equipment with consideration given to future needs.
The average data center is utilized at 56% capacity from a power perspective, according to a 2015 enterprise data center survey by 451 Research. So on average, 44% of the power that enterprises are allocated — and paying for — is unused.
Having the latest in equipment and technology is important for business-critical data centers. Yet, simply having these things is only one step in optimizing performance.
If you are considering adding network monitoring to your IT system, or currently have a system in place, you may be asked to define its value from time to time.