Lecture Notes: Power Management and Infrastructure in IT Environments

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

• Definition: A UPS is an uninterruptible power supply, essentially a large bank of batteries.

• Purpose: Provides power during short-term outages.

• Types of UPS:

  • Offline/Standby UPS:
    • Lowest cost.
    • Common in homes.
    • Batteries remain charged and switch to battery power when main power is unavailable.
    • Very short switching delay.
  • Line Interactive UPS:
    • Moderate cost.
    • Provides additional voltage during low voltage levels.
    • Offers surge protection during high voltage levels.
  • Online/Double Conversion UPS:
    • High cost, used in enterprise settings.
    • Power is always derived from the inverter; no switching delay.

• Additional Features:

  • Auto shutdown capabilities to ensure safe computer shutdown during power outages.
  • Various sizing and battery capacities available.
  • Different outlet configurations, including surge protection for phone lines or coax.

Power Distribution Units (PDU)

• Purpose: Connects all servers and components to a power source in a rack.
• Features:
  • Multiple outlets (example: 8 outlets, network manageable).
  • Monitoring functions for power usage.
  • SNMP availability for central management.

Generators

• Purpose: Provide long-term power source during extended outages.
• Fuel Types: Usually diesel fuel or natural gas.
• Capabilities:
  • Power entire buildings and systems.
  • Marked outlets indicate availability during generator operation.
  • UPS can provide short-term power until the generator is active.

HVAC Systems

• Purpose: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning to manage heat from computers.
• Design and Implementation:
  • Complex with many integrated parts.
  • Integrated with fire systems to prevent oxygen supply during fires.
  • Sensors and management workstations for automated control based on environmental changes.
  • Enhances both operational and user environments.

Fire Suppression Systems

• Importance: Protect against fires in data centers filled with electrical equipment.
• Methods:
  • Use of inert gases or chemical agents instead of water.
  • Stored in tanks and dispersed through nozzles.
  • Integrated with HVAC to disable air handlers during fire detection.