Picturing Redundant Data Center Power

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Introduction

What is your definition of redundant power? Truly redundant, 2N A/B power configurations comprise multiple layers including PDU, UPS and ATS diversity.  But too often in the marketplace, what is positioned as 'redundant power' is in fact a version of UPS or PDU diversity—not a truly redundant, 2N configuration*.

To help clear up the confusion, we've laid out the most common data center power configurations available in the marketplace with the key ways they do—or don't—provide complete power redundancy.

A Power

Also known as 'primary' or single circuit, A Power is an economical choice for businesses that don't require a fully redundant solution.  A Power configurations will always include multiple points of possible failure.  The above depicts Colo4's A Power offering.

PDU Diversity

Often mistaken for or positioned as fully redundant power, a PDU Diversity configuration includes possible points of failure at the UPS, ATS and power distribution system.

UPS Diversity

 

A UPS Diversity configuration can also be mistaken for fully redundant power, but in this distribution system.configuration the switch gear can be a point of failure in addition to the ATS and power distribution system.
 

2N A/B Power

 

A truly redundant solution, 2N A/B Power is the only power configuration that eliminates any single point of failure. The above depicts Colo4’s 2N A/B Power offering.

Power: key questions to ask

It can be difficult to make an apples-to-apples comparison when it comes to power, so here are some important questions to ask when assessing a data center's power infrastructure:

• Is the A/B power supported by two power plants?
• Is there UPS, PDU and ATS diversity?
• How often are generators tested?
• How much reserve fuel is available onsite?

Are there any single points of failure in your power infrastructure?  Colo4 offers both A Power and 2N A/B Power feeds to meet specific requirements for power diversity and redundancy.  Contact us to learn more or find out which power configuration is the best fit for your business.
 

By Paul VanMeter and Ricky Vasquez

About the Authors

Paul VanMeter is CTO and Co-founder of Colo4. VanMeter has been recognized as a leader in the colocation service industry, spearheading the successful growth of Colo4 since 2000. 

Ricky Vasquez is Director of Facilities at Colo4. Vasquez is responsible for daily oversight and management of Colo4’s data center to ensure the ongoing flawless operation of the facility. 

*for more, see our white paper, “The Truth Behind Redundant Data Center Power” 

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