Modular data centers are very different from traditional data centers. Modular data centers can be rapidly deployed reducing your reliance on expensive cloud computing. The faster your equipment is up and running the more revenue you generate and quicker ROI - in some cases less than a year. YES, we are seeing project ROI's in the 4-5 month range - the same period that is takes to secure a building permit for a traditional data center. That is why E3 strives to have CIMs operational in 90 days or less. Traditional data centers take up to 14 months to become operational, after you secure that permit to build.
Traditional thinking results in traditional performance. CIMs help customers achieve exceptional performance at the edge and where they need the computing resources.
Currently, the majority of data center contractors we have spoken with are focused on building the most cost-efficient megawatt. This is done to remain competitive in comparison to cloud computing and ensure a positive return on investment. However, following this strategy often results in the development of a wide-ranging system with restricted concurrency and scalability. Modular data centers are more appropriate for high-power servers. The use of higher-density CIMs can decrease overall IT power usage. For example, achieving 750 kW in a CIM is the equivalent of 1 MW in a traditional data center, leading to decreased capital expenses.
When it comes to constructing modular systems, ISO shipping containers are often considered a popular choice due to their standardized dimensions and ease of transportation. However, despite the initial appeal, many customers have faced challenges with these containerized solutions. Issues such as poor quality, limited longevity, and inefficiency have been commonly reported by those who have utilized these storage units. One significant problem that has frequently arisen is the presence of excess humidity within the container. This excess moisture can lead to a host of problems, particularly for sensitive computer components that are susceptible to damage over time due to prolonged exposure to high levels of humidity.
The impact of humidity on electronic equipment cannot be understated. Excessive moisture can cause corrosion, short circuits, and overall degradation of the components, ultimately leading to system failures and costly repairs. It is essential for businesses relying on modular systems housed in ISO containers to address this humidity issue effectively to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of their equipment.
Exploring the advantages of E3 NV CIMs over repurposed ISO shipping containers reveals a myriad of benefits that cater specifically to the needs of data processing facilities. One of the key areas where E3 NV CIMs excel is in humidity control. These purpose-built CIMs are engineered to maintain optimal humidity levels for data processing equipment, ensuring peak performance and longevity.
Engineering for Power and Data Cabling
Unlike repurposed shipping containers, E3 NV CIMs are designed with meticulous engineering to address power and data cabling requirements. This tailored approach minimizes the risk of cable damage from sharp edges and ensures efficient connectivity throughout the CIM.
Hoist Installation for Server Extraction
Another standout feature of E3 NV CIMs is the ability to install a hoist for extracting servers from liquid immersion tanks. This streamlined process simplifies maintenance and upgrades, enhancing the overall operational efficiency of the data processing facility.
Custom Built CIMs
Custom Built CIMs provide several advantages:
Tailored Solutions: Custom Built CIMs are designed specifically to meet your unique needs and requirements.
Enhanced Performance: These CIMs are optimized for your specific use case, resulting in better performance.
Scalability: Custom Built CIMs can be scaled according to your business growth and evolving demands.
Cost-Effectiveness: While initial investment might be higher, custom solutions can save costs in the long run by avoiding unnecessary feature modifications.
Competitive Edge: Having a custom CIM can give you a competitive advantage by offering unique features or functionalities.
E3 can create a customized CIM according to your requirements. It is simple to build to your specific dimensions. Do you need a small remote office environment with desks and chairs in your CIM? Separating sections within a CIM to control temperature and humidity is a significant E3 advantage.
Ballistic Protection
When it comes to security, E3 CIMs offer ballistic protection that surpasses the capabilities of standard ISO shipping containers. This added layer of defense ensures that sensitive data and equipment are safeguarded against potential threats.
Additionally, the standard siding provided by E3 NV is designed to insulate the container from harsh weather conditions and reduce vast swings of temperature and humidity. This feature helps in maintaining a stable and controlled environment within the container, protecting the contents from external elements.
Accessibility and Maintenance
While ISO shipping containers may seem versatile, the biggest disadvantage lies in their lack of accessibility for maintenance. E3 NV CIMs address this concern by incorporating removable side panels that allow easy access to the back of the equipment. This feature streamlines troubleshooting and upkeep tasks, saving valuable time and resources.
Ultimately, the comparison between E3 NV CIMs and repurposed ISO shipping containers highlights the superior performance and tailored design of the former in meeting the specific demands of data processing environments.
Despite the low initial cost of a shipping container, it poses significant challenges in terms of maintenance and insulation, which can reduce efficiency. When factoring in the necessary modifications like cutting and welding, the total cost can end up being almost equal or even higher. Additionally, ISO Containers are difficult to maintain as they often arrive contaminated with dirt, dust, and metal chips, posing a serious risk to servers.
Why would you enclose tens of millions of dollars of equipment inside a non-insulated, unsafe, non-waterproof container? Don't you want to protect your investment?
Modular systems, like our Critical Infrastructure Modules, are designed for that exact purpose. Not only are they efficient, achieving 1.13 PUE with only air cooling, or a 1.03 or better PUE with E3's unique Gen-2 Dual-Phase liquid immersion tanks, E3 CIMs are also an investment in and of themselves. Our modules have an expected life of 20 years and so will continue to be a valuable asset for your company for a long period. ISO Shipping Containers only have a life expectancy of 5 years. The savings add up fast with E3 CIMs and the true costs of containers become very high.
It has been our experience that high-quality modular systems have the lowest TCO over periods of 3 to 20 years. If you cannot look beyond even 2 years, then you may want to look towards the cloud or investigate financing as this can often be less costly than paying monthly and not owning any assets.
One company we have worked with, who we cannot disclose, moved an entire 30MW data center across state lines after tax laws changed. If their entire data center was modular this would have been far easier. That facility had been operating for 7 years. In the data world, that is a long time. A modular system lets you invest in high-quality facilities but doesn't lock you into one geographical location. One benefit of this is leverage with utility companies. According to the EIA, the average data center pays 7.3 cents/kWh. We know of data centers paying as low as 3 cents/kWh. This means that utility companies are getting some data centers to pay premium prices despite the fact that data centers represent base load, which is far cheaper for utility companies. If you invest in an expensive permanent facility, you are not going to be in a position to leave should tax laws or utility companies pressure your business to the point of failure. If you have a mobile, modular system then you just leave. Our modules are designed to be moved multiple times. containerized solutions are often not strong enough for transport after being left out to rust for a few years. Having leverage is important in negotiating with both utility companies and lawmakers.
We all pay for insurance to protect our assets and more importantly our business from an unknowable future. We all pay for Uninterruptible Power Systems to maintain business continuity. Modular data centers can protect your business just like a UPS or insurance and unlike those things, modules aren't an expense, they are an investment that will bring you long term savings and add to the value of your company. If you are looking to invest in your own data center infrastructure give us a call so we call help you determine if modular data centers are suitable for your business.
E3 NV, LLC
Modular Data Center Solutions