Chapter 8. HVAC and Other Environmental Controls

"So hot you're cool, so cool you're hot."

” General Public

The control and maintenance of heating, ventilation , and air conditioning (HVAC), as well as relative humidity (RH) levels, is essential in the data center. Computer hardware requires a balanced and appropriate environment for continuous system operation. Temperatures and relative humidity levels outside of the specified operating ranges, or extreme swings in conditions, can lead to unreliable components or system failures. Control of these environmental factors also has an effect on the control of electrostatic discharge and corrosion of system components.

This chapter contains the following sections:

• "Reasons for Environmental Control"

• "Temperature Requirements"

• "Relative Humidity"

• "Electrostatic Discharge"

• "Air Conditioning Systems"

• "Humidification Systems"

• "Monitoring Temperature and RH Levels"

• "Mechanical Support Systems"

• "Air Distribution"