Server racks at SPSC data center
Recent work in the Space Science Center (SPSC) created a 30-rack data center that by early 2014 will provide support for 100 racks of up to approximately 12 kW per rack. Additionally, the Janus container will be rearranged to accommodate ten additional high-density (greater than 12 kW) racks.
Other features include:
- Electrical system redundancy and reliability exceeding UTI Tier I
- UPS and generator backup
- High-speed network connectivity
- Physical security and restricted access, 24/7
- Remote hands for performing routine tasks
- Flexible power options to better match capabilities to the criticality of the service
- Cooling system that uses air-side economization, an efficiency model that takes advantage of Colorado’s favorable climate
A detailed technical overview of the facility infrastructure will be published soon.
Benefits
Relocating computing equipment and processes to the SPSC data center is a win-win for both CU-Boulder and participating entities. Overall campus energy costs and carbon footprint are reduced, space that currently houses local computing equipment is freed for other uses, and staff resources are freed to focus on core business activities.
Other benefits include:
- Reduction in system/service downtime
- Reduction in system deployment time
- Reduction in overall cost of localized data center space and associated systems
- Predictable and understood costs, that benefit from economies of scale
- Compliance with the system and data protection requirements of research sponsors
- Sustainability