30.09. Working Group Data Center: Efficiency of German data centers – today and tomorrow

Patrick Pulvermüller gave his lecture beginning with a qualitative insight into results of the study “German efficiency of data centers.” As part of the survey, a total of 47 data centers within Germany were recorded in the period from March to August 2008. What was surprising, but positive, about the survey was that the efficiency (PUE = Power Usage Efficiency) by international standards was reported as very good.

The average PUE of all collected data centers was 1.67. On a more negative note, however, it was noticed that the many simple ways to improve efficiency (e.g.blanking panels in the empty spaces in a rack) are used by only 55% of all respondents. The effects of these actions was quantified by simulations of the participants. Also completed, were opportunities for the cold aisle containment, discussed in existing data centers.

The second lecture by Dr. Béla Waldhauser, Global Switch FM GmbH, focused on another working group within the Working Group Data Center that specifically handles the review of the DCSA. The aim is to divide the data centers in the future according to their purpose (e.g. co-location, hosting, personal use). The different types of benefits (such as air conditioning, building and mechanical safety, work processes, etc…) can be finally weighted differently depending on the application. Also new is that the certification is to take place in five steps.

In the last presentation  Dr. Dieter Schramm, DELL GmbH dealt with the future of data centers from the perspective of the company Dell Computer. According to various studies, currently around 70% of the IT budget in the care and maintenance of data centers will be invested. At this point, Dell would begin with its concept of “Simplify IT” and reduce that number significantly. Other studies also showed that over 80% of all data center managers with the need for space and performance is a problem and don’t know how to resolve it.

Finally, Dr. Schramm pointed to a study from Switzerland, which considers the current cost in relation to air velocity. The study found that an air velocity of 2m / s is preferred.

The next meetings are under the theme “Data Center 2015″ and should give a look to the future of data centers, so that the managers are allowed to make the right decision for the renewal of their data center. A renewal of the data centers for almost 80% of all operators.