This module equips the learner with a working knowledge of the power distribution systems used in a modern Data Centre
1. Power Distribution and Backup
Overview of data centre redundancy levels: Uptime institute's 'Tier Standard', TIA-942 and BICSI-002. Medium-voltage switchgear including MV/LV transformer. Low-voltage switchgear/switchboard/automatic transfer switch (ATS). UPS systems with input/output switchboard and UPS distribution switchboard. Power distribution units (PDUs) and remote power panels (RPPs). Busway (overhead busbar & tapoff units). Three phase/single phase Rack PDUs (rPDUs)/outlet strips. Grounding systems: earthing arrangements for various power supply systems including data centre specific earthing requirements, equipotential mesh bonding network, rack grounding, protective-earth, functional earth, ESD, lightning protection, etc. UPS Design Configurations: Capacity (N), Parallel redundant (N+1), Distributed redundant "catcher" (N+1), System plus system (2N, 2N+1).
2. Protective Devices
Miniature circuit breakers (MCBs), moulded case circuit breakers (MCCBs), air circuit breakers (ACBs), fuse carriers, surge arresters, earthing switch, protection relays (digital, electronic). Current sensing, unlatching mechanism, current/voltage interruption means. Circuit breaker time/current characteristic curves: Overload region, instantaneous region, interrupting rating. Frequently used terminology as applied to protective devices.
3. Power System Analysis
Single-phase system, three-phase system, balanced and unbalanced three-phase loads, neutral current, power transfer, prospective short circuit current, earth loop impedance. Power system modelling and simulation using simulation software such as MATLAB/Simulink and SimPowerSystems or similar.
4. Data Centre Efficiency
Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE): Power flow diagram, PUE 'levels of reporting', circuit tracing, placement of meters, monitoring system. Power meters: Power quality, power, digital relay embedded, electronic trip unit embedded, UPS embedded, PDU/Busway embedded, rack PDU embedded. Current transformers (CTs). Potential/voltage transformers (PTs, VTs). Direct Current Networks in Data Centres: AC systems relative to DC systems, efficiency comparison, reliability, environmental impact and environmentally sustainable practices, safety, cost.
5. Power Backup Systems
Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): Types (standby, line interactive, standby-ferro, double conversion on-line, delta conversion on-line). Standby Generators: Generator (prime mover, alternator, governor), distribution system (ATS + associated switchgear and distribution). Transfer Switches: Functions, types (static transfer switches (STS), electromechanical switches/automatic transfer switches (ATS), applications, operation, failure modes, selection of.
6. Power Quality
Characteristics, causes, effects and safeguarding against the most common types of power quality problems as defined by IEEE 1159-2009.
7. Power Management
Characteristics of good power management. 'High density' IT equipment. Intelligent power distribution units (PDUs). Remote power management. System level capacities. Options for measuring and monitoring power usage.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 50 |
| Formal Examination | 50 |