Two years ago, we realized an important thing: customers are increasingly interested in small forms and low kilowatts, and we launched a new line of products - mini- and micro data centers. Essentially, we placed the "brains" of a full-fledged data center into a small cabinet. Like full data centers, they are equipped with all the necessary engineering systems, including power supply components, cooling, security systems, and fire protection. Since then, we often have to answer numerous questions regarding this product. I will try to briefly address the most frequently asked ones.
The most important question is, "Why?" Why did we do this, and why are micro data centers needed at all? Micro data centers are certainly not our invention. Edge computing based on mini- and micro data centers is a growing global trend. The trend is clear and logical: moving computations closer to the place where primary information is created is a direct consequence of business digitalization: data must be as close as possible to the customer. This market (edge computing), according to Gartner, is growing at an average rate of 29.7% per year and is expected to increase almost fivefold by 2023 – reaching $4.6 billion. Along with it comes the need for reliable infrastructure for edge computing equipment.
Who could need this? Those who require unified solutions that can be quickly and inexpensively implemented and scaled in regional branches, where a fast response from information systems is necessary regardless of the quality of communication channels, such as remote bank branches or oil corporations. Most oil and gas production facilities (like wells, for example) are significantly far from central offices, and due to the narrowness of communication channels, companies face the necessity to process large amounts of data directly at the point of collection.
The ability for local data processing and aggregation is an important, but not the only factor of interest in this product. Micro data centers are most often used when an organization does not have the capability (or desire) to utilize the services of a commercial data center or build its own. For various reasons, not everyone is prepared to choose between their own and someone else's, between long-term data center construction projects and public clouds.
A micro data center is an accessible alternative for many, allowing the avoidance of long-term and costly construction of their own data center, while maintaining full control over the infrastructure. Interest in micro data centers exists among commercial entities, industrial enterprises, and government agencies. The main motive is the standardization of the solution. It caters to those who want to achieve results quickly and at a reasonable cost—without project and construction work, without preliminary preparation of the premises and acquiring it.
This leads to the next query: there is one product, but the motivations for its acquisition can vary. How can a single solution satisfy customers with different needs? After 1.5 years of sales, we clearly see two equally important demands: one is for cost reduction, and the other is for increased reliability through extended autonomous operation and redundancy. Combining both requirements in a single 'box' is quite challenging. A simple way to satisfy both is to design all constructions modularly, where all engineering systems are executed as removable, separate modules, with the possibility of dismantling during operation.
The modular approach allows for adaptation to customer wishes regarding increased redundancy or, conversely, overall cost reduction of the solution. For those interested in cost reduction, some redundant engineering systems can be removed from the design or replaced with simpler counterparts. For those for whom functionality is more important, on the contrary, the micro data center can be 'packed' with additional systems and services.
Another significant advantage of modularity is the ability to scale quickly. If necessary, the infrastructure can be expanded by adding new modules. This is done very easily by connecting cabinets to one another.
And finally, the key question that always interests everyone is about the site. Where can micro data centers be placed? Indoors or outdoors? And what are the requirements for the site? Theoretically, it can be both, but there are 'nuances' because the equipment for indoor and outdoor solutions must be different.
If we are talking about standard constructions, it is better to place them indoors rather than outdoors, as IT loads require a specific approach. Providing quality service outside, under snow and rain, is challenging. To host a micro data center, a space with appropriate dimensions is needed where power lines and low-voltage networks can be laid, as well as external air conditioning units can be installed. That's pretty much it. It can be installed directly in a workshop, warehouse, utility room, or office. No complicated engineering infrastructure is required for this. Basically, this can be accomplished in any standard office. But if you really want it outdoors, then special models with IP 65 protection rating are needed, which are suitable for outdoor installation. As an outdoor solution, we also have climate cabinets. They have different loads and requirements for redundancy and climate control.
Source: habr.com
