Available HVAC Systems

There are two chief categories of data center air conditioning systems: computer room air conditioning (CRAC) and computer room air handling (CRAH). The difference between the two is that CRAC uses a compressor and refrigerant while CRAH uses cold water and a control valve. Each has its place in controlling the climate through data center air conditioning.

Both accomplish the same task, but CRAH systems are typically more energy efficient than CRAC systems because they lack the compressor. To be most efficient, it’s necessary to have both kinds of systems to handle the data center air conditioning.

The disadvantage of most CRAC units is that they usually have just an “on” or “off” setting. However, the gForce Ultra and gForce In-Row, comes with variable settings – variable speed compressors, variable speed fans and varying electronic expansion valves This technology allows you to maximize the efficiency of your server room’s environmental control gForce Ultra is designed to sit in the floor and pump the cold air through the space between the subfloor and the raised surface. Typically, perforated tiles are positioned near server inlets so that the air intakes of the devices pull the cold air directly in.

As a companion unit, the gForce IR is designed to increase the efficiency of CRAC units like the Ultra. It uses chilled water to enhance the cooling power of the Ultra without you having to install a larger perimeter CRAH data center air conditioning unit. The IR gives you control over both the temperature and humidity and helps to eliminate hot spots in long server aisles That means consistent conditions throughout the data center and longer life for your data center servers and other components.

If you have limited space beneath your data center floor, then ceiling-mounted data center air conditioning units are the answer.

The Large Ceiling Systems offer model sizes between 6 and 13 tons. Despite their size, these units are among the quietest available because of their double-inlet blower configuration. They also help cut down on static discharges through their sealed filter sections.

If you are truly pressed for space, then you might do well with a shelf unit. These units are not as large as their floor-mounted or ceiling-mounted counterparts, but they will fit into tight spaces. Within the confines of their specifications, they will provide the same kind of reliable performance you would get from their larger cousins.

These shelf units come with either an indoor condenser or with an apparatus that connects to the outside to reject heat. Based on your server room size, you can pick the option that better suits your needs regarding your data center air conditioning units.

Before selecting the unit or units that you need to keep your data center cool, be sure to do your research regarding those units. Your data center equipment will likely have come with specifications on climate control for its optimum operation.