How to Monitor Your Network Closet
Welcome to Keep Your Cool - a series tackling simple cooling optimization strategies for the busy data center operators by former busy data center operator, Gregg Haley.
Today's network closets can be packed full of energy consuming devices that generate heat. A large enterprise may have several network closets to accommodate the needs of the business. In the central core Network Closet you may find: Routers, Switches, Cell Phone Repeaters, CCTV Recorders, Access Controllers for Security, Fiber Terminal equipment, Fire Protection Controllers, Phone Systems, Email Servers, Firewalls, and whatever else is needed. Now these rooms usually have Dedicated Cooling, Backup Power and Remote Monitoring.
But, what about the remote network closets spread around a campus or building. Some of the same equipment mentioned above may be present in those spaces. Perhaps remote monitoring was not extended into this space as it once was just a telephone closet, void of heat generating equipment. Are they equipped with dedicated cooling to maintain a constant temperature 7 x 24? A three day weekend in a warm climate can raise the temperature significantly in a Network Closet that does not have dedicated cooling.
Regular monitoring the environment of a network closet is essential for ensuring the proper functioning and longevity of the equipment housed within it. To do this, it's important to regularly check the temperature, humidity, and airflow within the closet. Temperature should be kept between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit, humidity between 40-60%, and airflow should be consistent. You can do this by using the AUDIT-BUDDY system. Simply place in the network closet and scan for anywhere between 12 hours and 7 days. You can generate a time-trend graph (example above) to see if your environment meets these standards.
By monitoring these key environmental factors, you can quickly identify any issues and take corrective action before they cause damage or downtime.
About the Author
Gregg Haley is a data center and telecommunications executive with more than 30 years of leadership experience. Most recently served as the Senior Director of Data Center Operations - Global for Limelight Networks. Gregg provides data center assessment and optimization reviews showing businesses how to reduce operating expenses by identifying energy conservation opportunities. Through infrastructure optimization energy expenses can be reduced by 10% to 30%.
In addition to Gregg's data center efforts, he has a certification from the Disaster Recovery Institute International (DRII) as Business Continuity Planner. In November of 2005, Gregg was a founding member and Treasurer of the Association of Contingency Planners - Greater Boston Chapter, a non-profit industry association dedicated to the promotion and education of Business Continuity Planning. Gregg had served on the chapter's Board of Directors for the first four years. Gregg is also a past member of the American Society of Industrial Security (ASIS). Gregg currently serves as the Principal Consultant for Purkay Labs.