How to Improve Data Center Uptime | Siemens | Socomec | Eaton
Data centers serve as the 21st century’s factories, making it crucial to ensure uninterrupted access to the services and applications they host. Accessibility for users 24/7, without disruptions, is paramount in this regard.
The Ponemon Institute’s report reveals that data center downtime costs approximately $9,000 per minute. Additionally, Gartner estimates that Fortune 1000 companies can face downtime costs ranging from $1 million to $2.5 billion per year. These statistics emphasize the significance of minimizing data center downtime and implementing effective measures to prevent and promptly resolve any arising issues.
In light of these concerns, mojo4industry organised a development debate focused on enhancing data center uptime. Read on to find out what the experts have to say.
When asked about his thoughts on the best practices for data center operators to minimize downtime, Deepak Singh Thakur, Power Conversion Director, Socomec Innovative Power Solutions, said, “Data centers are a hot topic in India and globally. Yes, a minute of downtime can cost $6,000 to $9,000. This is quite significant compared to the available solutions. However, adopting the latest technologies allows us to transform this downtime expense into an investment that results in a robust and reliable system.”
Furthermore, he highlights, “The industry faces challenges due to a lack of adequate resources and expertise when managing data center expansions. This shortage of trained personnel is a key factor that contributes to downtime. Speaking of downtime, it can be understood using a simple formula i.e., the mean time between failures divided by the sum of the mean time between failures and the mean time to repair.”
Thakur emphasized that when downtime occurs, individuals or industries tend to conceal it and keep lessons learned to themselves. Thakur believes that industrialists must share this valuable knowledge. Additionally, Thakur expressed the opinion that automation plays a vital role in reducing human errors, making it a significant factor that deserves high priority.
Further, Shreesha Nagar, Director – Digital Sales (Brightlayer), Eaton Power Quality, shared his views. He said, “As the industry experiences rapid growth, scalability becomes crucial, while effectively managing human talent poses challenges.” This situation presents significant opportunities. However, the current scenario reveals a tendency to allocate human talent to mundane, repetitive, and elementary tasks. Digitalization underutilizes human resources.
Nagar further states, “Consequently, the industry’s foremost opportunity lies in implementing automation for low-value repetitive tasks and leveraging human talent to pursue optimization opportunities. The optimal approach involves deploying AI technologies that have already been developed, enabling us to maximize their potential through appropriate input and utilization.”
When asked to list two best practices to minimize downtime, Kunjumon Francis, Head of Datacenter Solutions & Services, Siemens India, shared, “The first key aspect to consider in this industry is its constant evolution, necessitating daily improvements to stay on track. Secondly, digitalization brings various risks, especially cybersecurity risks. It is imperative to familiarize oneself with cybersecurity norms and procedural guidelines. This is where product selection plays a crucial role. While opting for a low-cost camera may seem appealing in terms of cost savings, it is essential to recognize that such a choice can serve as an entry point for potential cybersecurity threats. Succumbing to the allure of a cheap solution can lead to significant financial losses and jeopardize customer trust, thereby negatively impacting the smooth operations of your data centers.”
Francis added, “Another crucial consideration is integration. It is essential not to confine oneself solely to individual products but to explore the connecting aspects that enable the integration of the entire ecosystem. This integration holds significant importance. Siemens, for instance, is actively developing an ecosystem known as Xcelerator. This platform aims to bring together various players, diverse products, and extensive portfolios, all integrated to create a cohesive market environment. In this approach, everyone can simultaneously be viewed as a competitor and a potential business partner. By embracing such concepts, we strive to leverage Digital Services and harness their full potential.”
Pratik Gupte, Specification and Product Manager, Socomec Innovative Power Solutions, said, “I would like to emphasize two fundamental points in data center design. Firstly, the primary focus should be on establishing a resilient infrastructure that aligns with the essential requirements. However, it is equally critical to consider operational costs. Advanced technology and high-quality cabinet equipment should be integrated to maintain a specific Power over Ethernet (PoE) standard. The overarching architectural design should prioritize data center operators’ and facility managers’ ease, ensuring seamless operations. This includes incorporating proper granularity in continuously monitoring the PoE. It also includes establishing appropriate benchmarks and implementing stepwise monitoring of energy consumption, losses, and operational costs associated with the PoE. This continuous process necessitates comprehensive training to develop a competent operations team.”
