A modular data center is a data center whose architecture was designed around interacting modules that can be easily added to provide scalability.
The first modular data centers were implemented using ISO shipping containers, also known as Data Containers, with companies like Google and SUN Microsystems pioneering these types of installations. Today, we find a wide range of modular data centers.
Modular data centers have become increasingly popular in recent years, and more and more companies are using this type of data center to process their data.
Modular data centers can be used as:
- An expansion of an operating data center.
- A primary data center.
- An alternate or backup data center.
- Edge Computing.
Advantages of a modular data center compared to a traditional Data Center:
Lower initial investment (CAPEX)
A Modular Data Center can significantly reduce implementation costs:
Only what the customer requires is installed—investments are targeted strictly toward current needs, and taking advantage of modularity, subsequent investments are made to expand the data center as needed.
Reduced civil works: the civil works required for a Modular Data Center are minimal. Since the modules can be placed outdoors, all that is basically required is a concrete slab or foundations for positioning the modules, allowing customers to save up to 40% on base construction costs.
Reduced complexity: Modular Data Center designs simplify operations and replace long, complicated construction periods.
Lower operating costs (OPEX)
Modular Data Centers utilize containment concepts to reduce the energy consumed by cooling equipment. The design aims to increase data center efficiency by ensuring an optimal Delta T between cold and hot aisle air, as well as concentrating cold air strictly where needed. By applying these techniques, the cooling setpoint can be raised up to 80.6°F [27°C], in accordance with ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers), resulting in significant energy savings. We will publish a dedicated article on this topic in a future post.
Flexibility
Modular Data Centers can be designed around customer requirements and needs, allowing for the selection of power and cooling redundancy levels, capacity, number of racks, etc. The design allows for seamless expansion without interrupting data center operations.
Scalability
Scalability is a natural benefit of any modular solution. As more space for the IT room is needed, it is added incrementally along with the required power and cooling capacity. The Data Center grows according to its demands.
Rapid Deployment
Implementation time for a Modular Data Center is measured in weeks, compared to traditional Data Centers where construction times can take at least 12 months.
Portability
Modular Data Centers can be portable; if relocation is necessary, the customer can dismantle, transport, and install their Modular Data Center at a different site. Modules are typically designed with dimensions similar to shipping containers so they can be easily transported via existing logistics (maritime and land).
Reduced Risk of Failure
Modular Data Centers are manufactured in controlled environments. Building them in a factory minimizes the risk of failure during commissioning.
NDC Modular Data Centers
NDC designs and manufactures Modular Data Centers with a team of professionals boasting over 20 years of industry experience.
We offer 100% customized and scalable solutions, ranging from Micro Data Centers to Multi-Megawatt Data Centers. At NDC, we are “Vendor Agnostic,” meaning we are not tied to any specific manufacturer’s products.
What can be customized in an NDC Modular Data Center?
At NDC, we can customize:
- Enclosures: Height, width, depth, room shape, color (interior and exterior), custom logos, door width and height for specialized equipment access, panic bars for doors, LED lighting, fireproofing thermal protection, and various shielding levels. Hot/cold aisle containment types.
- Redundancy Level: N, N+1, 2N, 2N+1, 4N in Cooling and Power.
- Racks: Heights, widths, depths, brand.
- PDUs: Receptacle types, Monitored, basic, smart.
- UPS: Brand, power capacity, Power Factor (PF), type.
- Cooling: Brand, CW DX types, InRow, Room, Wall Mounted, Rack-level.
- Fire Detection: Smoke detection, high-sensitivity smoke detection, heat detection.
- Fire Suppression: FM 200, NOVEC 1230.
- Access Control: Proximity card or biometric, integration with other systems.
- CCTV: Brand, camera type and quantity, retention time, integration with other systems.
- Special Requirements: Shielding (various levels), anti-corrosion, fireproof, seismic protection, etc.
For more information, please visit our website at https://www.ndc-solutions.com or write to us at info@ndc-solutions.com.