DATACENTERS data center
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However, there are other means to put out fires, especially in Sensitive areas, usually using gaseous fire suppression, of which Halon gas was the most popular, until the negative effects of producing and using it were discovered.
=== Security ===
Physical access to data centers is usually restricted. Layered security often starts with fencing, bollards, and mantraps. Video camera surveillance and permanent security guards are almost always present if the data center is large or contains sensitive information. Fingerprint recognition is starting to become commonplace.
Logging access is required by some data protection regulations; some organizations tightly link this to access control systems. Multiple log entries can occur at the main entrance, entrances to internal rooms, and at equipment cabinets. Access control at cabinets can be integrated with intelligent power distribution units, so locks are networked through the same appliance.
=== Transformation ===
Data center transformation takes a step-by-step approach through integrated projects carried out over time. This differs from a traditional method of data center upgrades, which takes a serial and siloed approach. Typical projects within a data center transformation initiative include standardization/consolidation, virtualization, automation, and security.
Data center consolidation consists of reducing the number of data centers and avoiding server sprawl (both physical and virtual), which often includes replacing aging data center equipment. This process is aided by standardization, which makes these systems follow a uniform set of configurations to simplify and improve efficiency. Automating tasks such as provisioning, configuration, patching, release management, and compliance are other ways in which data centers can be upgraded. These changes are needed not just when facing fewer skilled IT workers. Lastly, security initiatives integrate the protection of virtual systems with existing security for physical infrastructures.
=== Raised floor ===
The first raised floor computer room was made by IBM in 1956 to allow access for wiring. During the 1970s, raised floors became more common because they allow cool air to circulate more efficiently. A raised floor standards guide (GR-2930) was developed by Telcordia Technologies, a subsidiary of Ericsson.
=== Lights out ===
The "lights-out" data center, also known as a darkened or dark data center, is a data center that has largely eliminated the need for direct access by personnel, except under extraordinary circumstances. Due to the lack of need for staff to enter the data center, it can be operated without lighting. All of the devices are accessed and managed by remote systems, with automation programs used to perform unattended operations. In addition to the energy savings, reduction in staffing costs, and the ability to locate the site further from population centers, implementing a lights-out data center also reduces the threat of malicious attacks upon the infrastructure.
=== Noise levels ===
Generally, local authorities prefer noise levels at data centers to be "10 dB below the existing night-time background noise level at the nearest residence."
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations require monitoring of noise levels inside data centers if noise exceeds 85 decibels. The average noise level in server areas of a data center may reach as high as 92–96 dB(A).
Residents living near data centers have described the sound as "a high-pitched whirring noise 24/7", saying "It's like being on a tarmac with an airplane engine running constantly ... Except that the airplane keeps idling and never leaves."
External sources of noise include HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) equipment and energy generators.
=== Site selection ===
Location factors include proximity to power grids, telecommunications infrastructure, networking services, transportation lines, and emergency services. Other considerations should include flight paths, neighboring power drains, geological risks, and climate (associated with cooling costs).
Local political considerations, such as availability of subsidies and lack of opposition, are also important factors in locating data centers.
=== High availability ===
Various metrics exist to measure the data-availability that results from data-center availability beyond 95% uptime, with the top of the scale counting how many nines can be placed after 99%. The costs of avoiding downtime should not exceed the cost of the downtime itself.
=== Dynamic infrastructure ===
Dynamic infrastructure provides the ability to intelligently, automatically, and securely move workloads within a data center anytime, anywhere, for migrations, provisioning, to enhance performance, or build co-location facilities. It also facilitates performing routine maintenance on either physical or virtual systems, all while minimizing interruption. A related concept is Composable Infrastructure, which allows for the dynamic reconfiguration of the available resources to suit needs, only when needed.