The physical environment of our data center is
under strict control:
- Air conditioning is used to keep the room cool, generally around about 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. More importantly, the primary goal of data center air conditioning systems is to keep the server components at the board level within the manufacturer's specified temperature range.
- Backup power is catered for via one or more uninterrupted power supplies and diesel generators.
- To prevent single point of failure, all elements of the electrical systems, including backup system, are fully duplicated, and critical servers are connected to both the "A-side" and "B-side" power feeds.
- Our data centers has raised flooring made up of 2 ft removable square tiles. These provide a plenum for air to circulate below the floor, as part of the air conditioning system, as well as providing space for power cabling. Data cabling is routed through overhead cable trays in our data center.
- The data center has elaborate fire prevention and fire extinguishing systems. It has two kinds of fire alarm systems; a first system designed to spot the slightest sign of particles being given off by hot components, so a potential fire can be investigated and extinguished locally before it takes hold , and a second system designed to take full-scale action if the fire takes hold. Fire prevention and detection systems are also zoned, and high-quality fire-doors and other physical fire-breaks used, so that even if a fire does break out it can be contained and extinguished within a small part of the facility.
- Physical security also plays a large role in our data center. Physical access to the site is restricted to selected personnel. Video camera surveillance and permanent security guards are always present.
