Intelligent Data Centres Issue 05 | Page 64

UNCOVERING THE LAYERS the power is unreliable and continuity is an issue, filtering of energy from the mains is highly desirable. However, provided that there is a reasonably secure and consistent delivery of power, eco-mode trades only a small amount of reliability to deliver a resilient level of protection while reducing energy costs, in some cases by up to 98%. Conversely, if operating in double- conversion mode, power output from the UPS will always pass through an inverter, providing a regular supply to the load. This provides high levels of continuity for the user as there is no loss of power in the face of an outage. However, using this mode means there is constant wear on the power components, with attendant reduction in Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) and a knock- on effect on reliability, which must be considered in any continuity plan. The use of Li-Ion technologies also plays a crucial role in lowering energy costs associated with UPS systems. Research by Schneider Electric and detailed in White Paper #266, found that the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of Li-Ion UPS can be much lower than VRLA, despite the initial capital expenditure (CAPEX) being higher. VRLA batteries for example, will typically need to be replaced every four years, whereas Li-ion can remain operational 64 Issue 05 for 10. Over the course of that life-cycle, the research found that use of Li-ion battery technology can provide savings of up to 53%. Data driven monitoring and management To ensure the highest levels of continuity, a final consideration might be the use of advanced software to drive monitoring and management. In their most basic form, UPS systems might include an intuitive graphical user interface (GUI), which allows for simple system configuration. However, for more in-depth system monitoring, a user might choose to deploy an on-premise Data Centre Infrastructure Management (DCIM) software application. IN SITUATIONS WHERE THE POWER IS UNRELIABLE AND CONTINUITY IS AN ISSUE, FILTERING OF ENERGY FROM THE MAINS IS HIGHLY DESIRABLE. For the highest levels of continuity, deployment of cloud-based DCIM software, such as Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure IT Expert, become increasingly important – especially for those customers who prefer to outsource management of their facility to external service providers. provides round the clock monitoring of any IoT-enabled UPS or infrastructure system, delivering updates directly to the user’s smart phone. The data harvested via such cloud based DCIM software is pooled and analysed to deliver detailed insights into how a data centre application is performing, providing the user with real-time recommendations to drive resilience, efficiency and continuity. For many, this software If ever a more severe problem is detected, use of the software can also allow a service professional to be dispatched to deal with the problem in person, which is especially important if the issue requires external expertise or management across a number of sites. ◊ As any potential issues arise, they can be addressed quickly and proactively, enabling a better level of continuity for the user. www.intelligentdatacentres.com