Building or expanding a data center requires careful planning across multiple component categories. This checklist covers every element you need. Browse our data center parts for a complete selection.
Server Infrastructure
| Component | Options | Key Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Rack Servers | Dell, HPE, Lenovo | 1U vs 2U, single vs dual CPU |
| Processors | Intel Xeon, AMD EPYC | Core count vs clock speed |
| Memory | DDR4/DDR5 ECC | RDIMM vs LRDIMM, capacity |
| Boot Storage | Enterprise SSD | SATA SSD for OS, NVMe for perf |
| Data Storage | HDD / SSD | Capacity vs performance |
| RAID | Controllers / HBA | Hardware RAID vs HBA passthrough |
Networking
Switches: Managed switches with VLAN support. Minimum: 1 ToR (Top-of-Rack) switch per rack.
Server NICs: 10/25GbE network cards for each server. Redundant connections recommended.
SAN (if needed): Fibre Channel with Brocade or Cisco MDS switches.
Cabling: DAC cables, fiber patches, power cables. Plan cable management from day one.
Storage Infrastructure
Direct-Attached (DAS): Drives inside each server. Simplest, lowest latency.
Network-Attached (NAS): Shared file storage over Ethernet. Good for file servers and backups.
Storage Area Network (SAN): Storage arrays from EMC or NetApp for block-level shared storage.
Backup: LTO tape drives for long-term archival and offsite backup.
Power and Cooling
Server PSUs: Redundant power supplies in every server. 80 PLUS Platinum minimum.
UPS: Uninterruptible power supply sized for full rack load plus 20% headroom.
PDU: Metered or switched PDUs for power monitoring and remote management.
Cooling: Precision cooling (not standard AC). Hot/cold aisle containment for efficiency.
Monitoring: Temperature sensors, humidity monitoring, leak detection.
Reliability Components
RAID batteries: BBU and supercapacitors protect write cache during power loss.
Spare parts: Keep spare PSUs, drives, and memory DIMMs on-site for immediate replacement.
Motherboard spares: For mission-critical systems, keep a spare motherboard or spare server.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum equipment for a small data center?
At minimum: 2+ servers (redundancy), 1 managed switch, UPS, rack with proper cooling, and a firewall. For production use, add redundant power feeds, environmental monitoring, and backup storage.
How much cooling does a server rack need?
A fully loaded 42U rack can draw 10-20kW. You need approximately 1 ton of cooling per 3.5kW of IT load. A 20kW rack needs about 6 tons of precision cooling.
Should I use 1U or 2U servers?
1U servers (like Dell R640, HPE DL360) maximize density but limit expansion. 2U servers (Dell R740, HPE DL380) offer more drive bays, PCIe slots, and cooling headroom. Use 2U for general purpose, 1U for dense compute.
What UPS size do I need?
Calculate total server power draw (watts), add 20% headroom, then size for desired runtime. For 10 minutes runtime on 5kW load, you need approximately 6kVA UPS with battery extensions.
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