EN 50600-4 Series – European Data Center Standards

The EN 50600-4 series on KPIs for data centers has just been released.  The EN 50600 standards are particularly important given the changes to European Union requirements for storing European user information.  Of course, there have been other data center standards (for example, the TIA 942 and the BICSI 002).  What the EN 50600 series brings to the table is a comprehensive overview for anyone involved in designing, building and operating data centers.  It also addresses some areas like security that have not been part of previous standardization.

The new EN 50600 Part 4 series expands the previous releases with information on KPIs for these facilities.

Let’s take a look at each of the three individually:

EN 50600-4-1Information technology – Data centre facilities and infrastructures – Part 4-1: Overview of and general requirements for key performance indicators

As the overview document for the EN 50600-4 series, Part 1  sets the groundwork for these standards.  A common structure for the series is provided.  Definitions (including boundary conditions for KPIs) are covered.  Here is where the general information on effectiveness and efficiency of KPIs for power usage can be found.  Requirements and objectives for KPIs are also included.

EN 50600-4-2, Information technology – Data centre facilities and infrastructures – Part 4-2: Power Usage Effectiveness

Now that you understand the basics of KPIs for data centers, the Part 2 covers PUE – Power Usage Effectiveness.  One criticism of data centers is the necessity for the consumption of large amounts of power, both for equipment and cooling.  PUE is a KPI for reaching a more efficient use of electric energy.  The term is defined and PUE measurement categories are covered.  The relationship of PUE to facility infrastructure, equipment and operations are reviewed.  The details of PUE measurement, calculation and reporting are included.  Details of interpretation, as well as PUE derivatives, are also in this part.

EN 50600-4-3, Information technology – Data centre facilities and infrastructures – Part 4-3: Renewable Energy Factor

The new Part 4-3 focuses on REF, Renewable Energy Factor.  The term is defined, a methodology for calculation and presentation is specified, and interpretation is reviewed.

Energy efficiency provides cost savings, reduces the impact of your facilities on your “neighborhood,” and improves your image as a responsible organization.  The use of KPIs to improve the energy performance of your facility is essential.

Remember, the EN 50600 series for European compliance can be a great tool to be used throughout the lifecycle of a data center.  It will help your make better design, location, protection and operational decisions.  And it can help prevent the failure of your data center (think outages and fire) as well!

So you’ll want a copy of these new releases now.  Use Document Center Inc. for your purchase of EN standards.  You’ll need to choose from the many national editions out there.  Contact our staff for help choosing the one that right for you.  We can be reached by phone (650-591-7600) and email (info@document-center.com).  Or go ahead and order directly at our Document Center webstore, www.document-center.com.

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