Implementation and evaluation of a wired data center sensor network

Abstract

As an alternative to often costly computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling of a data center (DC), we describe an ultra-low cost solution based on a wired sensor network. We describe the sensor hardware, packaging and cabling in detail, as well as the software components. Our prototype has been in production use for twelve months at the time of writing. This article presents detected air flow patterns that would have been difficult to discover using modelling alone, but easy to find with the measurement-based approach. We evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of our solution when compared with CFD models and existing alternatives. Key features of our approach are its accuracy, ease of deployment, and low purchase, construction, and operating costs. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.