Intelligent Data Centres Issue 67 | Page 72

T H E E D G E
performance and environmental sustainability metrics , making them more competitive in the market .
What to look for when selecting a power monitoring solution
When selecting a critical power monitoring solution , look for the following essential features :
• User-friendly interface : A good power monitoring solution should have an easily accessible touchscreen displaying real-time power performance metrics . Premium solutions also offer a pivoting display for easy visual access from the floor level .
• Visibility of power to track busway : Monitoring power at the rack PDU level alone is insufficient – data centre operations need insights into the performance of all systems , not just those powering the IT equipment . Look for power monitoring systems for overhead track busway feed and tap-off applications , which provide the highest levels of whitespace power monitoring when used with rack PDU products .
• Ease of configuration : Look for power monitoring solutions that can be easily integrated with DCIM and BMS packages .
• Communications protocol : Seek power monitoring solutions that simultaneously communicate with serial Modbus and Ethernetbased protocols .
• Temperature monitoring : Leading solution providers now offer temperature sensor technology for end-feed lugs , making monitoring and viewing temperature data instantaneous .
• Revenue-grade metering : This is essential for making actionable , purpose-driven decisions in the data centre environment , whether data is required at the power feed or branch circuit level . It is ideal for colocation providers needing to monitor client power by the rack , not the room .
• Alarming : Power monitoring solutions should feature audio and email alerting capabilities to notify staff members of surges , lags , fluctuations and variances in power and temperature . Users can define thresholds for factors such as power capacity , usage , or temperature , ensuring alerts are received when those thresholds are exceeded .
• Data trending , analysis and reporting : Power monitoring software offering advanced analytics capabilities and automated custom reporting provides a comprehensive overview of power usage and trends over time . These insights provide site managers and decision-makers with real-time data to enhance their electrical infrastructure and assist in generating reports to meet compliance standards .
Critical power monitoring systems combined with innovative power distribution solutions are essential for mitigating operational risks and managing power challenges in modern data centres . These integrated systems safeguard against operational risks , power surges and harmonic distortion and also contribute to enhanced reliability , cost savings and regulatory compliance .
The M70 Critical Power Monitor ( CPM ) by Legrand ' s brand , Starline , sets a new benchmark for energy monitoring in mission-critical environments , designed for busway end-feed and tap-off applications . This innovative metering system delivers accurate data on energy usage , power quality and critical parameters , and features an intuitive interface and a high visibility pivoting display . It integrates seamlessly with DCIM and BMS packages , supporting both serial Modbus and Ethernet protocols for real-time monitoring and control . With revenue-grade metering , advanced alarming and reporting capabilities , the M70 CPM offers exceptional insights into power distribution and usage trends . �
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