Power is the foundation connecting all technologies.
Data centers are engineered to support power needs of computing systems.
Considerations must be given to potential power outages.
Power Supply Sources
Data centers typically do not generate their own power.
Power is supplied by local providers.
Data center availability depends on grid stability.
Types of Power Outages
Outages can vary in duration, including:
Minutes to hours (potentially manageable).
Days due to natural disasters (significant disruption).
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
Definition: A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is a device that provides battery backup when the main power source fails.
Purpose: Keeps systems running during blackouts, brownouts (voltage drop), and surges (excessive voltage).
**Types of UPS:
Offline/Standby UPS:
Runs on main power until failure occurs.
Internal switch activates battery backup.
Line-Interactive UPS:
Can adjust voltage slowly during a drop in main power.
Especially useful for areas prone to brownouts.
Online UPS (Double-Conversion UPS):
Continuously uses battery power, eliminating the switch between main and battery power.
UPS Features and Considerations
UPS battery capacity is limited; choose one that meets system maintenance needs during outages.
Features include:
Battery Capacity Options: Varying sizes available depending on needs.
Graceful Shutdown Signals: When battery level drops, UPS can signal systems to shut down to prevent corruption.
Number of Outlets: Varies per UPS model, affecting the number of devices that can be connected.
Suppression Features: Some UPS models include surge suppression for additional protection of connected devices (e.g., for ethernet or telephone lines).
Generators
Definition: A generator provides long-term power backup; can operate indefinitely with fuel supply.
Generators can:
Power an entire building or specific sections.
Provide partial power; look for outlets marked as "generator power."
Integration of UPS and Generators
Most organizations use both UPS and generators to ensure continuous power:
UPS Role: Covers short-term outages and transition period before generator activation.
Generator Role: Provides long-term power post-outage; ramp-up required before active power.
There is typically a short period (about one minute) without power before the generator fully activates.