DCA Report Format

Included in our report would be a gap style analysis comparing your existing facilities attributes to those expected in best practice standards. Specifically we would use standards developed by the Uptime Institute and referred to as the 4 Tier Levels.

The objective of the report will also be to document all existing conditions at the site and provide you with both a capacity planning exercise in day vulnerability (points of failure) assessment.

One of the components of the report would be a rack level “Electrical GRID Audit” to ensure consistent and effective connection of all IT loads in the proper 2N manner. (i.e. ensuring that all dual corded IT loads are properly connected to the sites respective power sources). The “GRID Audit” would provide a “rack-by-rack” review of all power cords feeding all dual corded and single corded IT loads, and provide step-by-step remedial recommendations.

The study would also provide a comprehensive prioritised list of recommendations in order to make your data centre facility meet best practice standards. Cost estimates would also be provided with the recommendation list in order to start with budgeting exercises and financial planning.

The DCA Report

We have outlined the general format of the report. It would include these sections dealing with the following elements:

1. Site Overview

The site overview would provide you with a detailed description of the site, it’s function, and the support systems found within it.

2. Current Status Drawings (AutoCAD Format)

Drawings (AutoCAD format) would be prepared to reflect the current status (as built) of the site (i.e. Electronic Environment area). The drawings would include (limited to):

1. Architectural (rooms, walls, partitions, etc.)
2. Equipment Layout (hardware location – IT and support systems)
3. Electrical (single line and layout)
4. Mechanical (single line and layout)
5. Fire Suppression (single line and layout)

3.  Hardware Inventory and Loading Estimates

This section would assess the existing loading (electrical and mechanical) of each functional area (i.e. network area, server area, etc.) and provide estimates for future growth potential. This section will also collect all pertinent information (which is presently being compiled by others), with regards to the following related items:

1. Computer hardware inventory list (by room and functional area basis)
2. Electrical support systems hardware inventory list (including technical specifications)
3. Mechanical support systems hardware inventory list (including technical specifications)

4.  Support Systems Review and Audit (Electrical and Mechanical)

Generally, the two main critical environment support systems are comprised of both electrical and mechanical elements. We will provide analysis of the facility’s electrical and mechanical systems, in order to properly assess present condition, total capacity, and present level of reliability.

For the electrical distribution system, we will provide load testing (capacity) and power quality analysis at the major distribution point(s) affecting the critical area.

The test performed on the electrical system will also attempt to quantify and isolate potential sources of electrical power problems. We shall provide a detailed description of the suspected and/or problem causing agents, and provide specific recommendations and instructions for remedial action (if/as required). Measurements and investigations will be performed at appropriate locations within the facility. Special attention will be provided to specific areas of interest that have been identified as the data center’s mission critical areas.

For this phase, we will use a collection of “state-of-the-art” data logging and data capturing equipment.

5. Under floor Raised Floor Area – Electrical distribution review

The study will also include the proper identification of all electrical cabling and circuitry, located under the raised floor area (and or within the critical environment). All power cables and receptacles will be identified and labeled by tracing and identifying their point of distribution (i.e. panel boards and circuit breakers).

All circuit breakers at load centers will be properly traced, identified, and labeled for circuit identification. An “as-built” single line electrical drawing will be completed. All unused and/or abandoned cables will be identified for removal.

6. Life Cycle Analysis (Support System Upgrade Strategy)

Based on our analysis of the site, we will provide you with an efficient and cost effective support system hardware upgrade and replacement strategy as/if required (i.e. mechanical and electrical systems, etc.). This plan will deal specifically with the data center support hardware which will include your electrical distribution system (i.e. UPS system, batteries, generator, etc.) and mechanical systems (i.e. air conditioners, etc.).

7. Long Term Growth Strategy

A proposed long-term growth strategy would look at the present status of the data center (existing features, etc.) and would provide a basic plan for efficient future growth based on both the facility’s existing and/or future capabilities.

8. Site Enhancement Recommendations

Based on the findings of the report, we will provide recommendations for site enhancement and improvement as/if necessary. The recommendation list will take the form of a prioritized “TO-DO” list that will provide you with the basis for immediate and effective site maintenance and management.