A comprehensive, step-by-step guide to designing and managing robust, flexible, and productive data center facilities Includes step-by-step instructions on every major decision involved in designing flexible and productive data center facilities Shows how to maximize infrastructure, avoid downtime, and save millions by extending data center lifespan Covers strategies for retrofitting an overburdened data center Addresses common construction errors and includes design templatesData centers are specialized environments that safeguard a company's most valuable equipment and intellectual property, housing the devices that process business transactions, host web sites, store data, maintain financial records, and route e-mail. A well-planned and effectively managed data center facility supports these functions and increases company productivity by providing reliable network availability and faster processing. This book undertakes all major decisions involved in the design and construction of a data center facility. It also provides instruction on how to effectively manage a data center so downtime is minimized, troubleshooting is easier, and the room's infrastructure is maximized, allowing a company to get more from its financial investment. Chapters are arranged in the order in which decisions must be made when planning a data center project. Part I covers physical infrastructure details: sizing the room, cabinet layout, electrical systems, data cabling, cooling, and fire suppression system. Part II addresses how to successfully manage the environment: organizing equipment, labeling, standardization, operations standards, documentation, and cleaning practices.