Tech Talk Q & A

A “Metered Power” environment is where data center power is delivered via A/B redundant power circuits and power consumption is measured, ensuring the customer only pays for the amount of power that is utilized on a monthly basis.

Metered Power is much more cost effective compared to buying Power-by-the-Circuit. When a client buys power by the circuit they are paying for 100% power utilization no matter if the power is used or not. Additionally, there is typically a cost for the redundant B-side circuit that can range from 50% to 75% of the cost of the primary circuit. When paying for Power-by-the-Circuit, you can incur up to 175% of the cost of a power and never be able to use more than 100% of the primary circuit. Metered Power is delivered via A/B redundant power whips that are metered for monitoring circuit utilization as well as invoicing power usage. Power circuits are almost never fully utilized. In fact, the average data center racks uses between 50-60% of the power available so why pay for 175% of power when you only use a fraction of that amount.

SSAE 16 (Formerly known as SAS 70) is an acronym for Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagements; it was developed and is maintained by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Specifically, SSAE 16 is a thorough audit report on the operational processes of a service organization where professional standards are set up for a service auditor that audits and assesses the internal controls of a service organization. SSAE 16 is an extremely thorough and substantial audit that shows transparency to the customers of DataSite. Additionally, it shows that DataSite has been thoroughly checked and deemed to have exemplary controls and safeguards.

There is a substantial difference between the Type I and Type II reports. Type II reports are more thorough, because the auditor gives an opinion on how effective the controls operated under a specific time period of the review. The Type I report only lists the controls while Type II tests the efficacy of these controls to reasonably assure that they are working correctly. DataSite’s SSAE-16 Type II report covers a 12-month period.

DataSite provides all customers with access to complementary office space complete with desks, chairs, phones and Internet access. There are three conference rooms available for all clients to use as well as break room facilities and storage lockers. Private office space is available and can be built to specific customer requirements.

DataSite Provides Remote Hands Services (“Remote Hands”) around the clock, 24 hours per day. Remote Hands involves the activities of an on-site DataSite technician, performing as the “eyes, ears and fingers” of a Customer. Remote Hands Services are available on demand (incident based) or in contracted blocks of time. Customers can choose from 5, 10 or 20 hour blocks.

The main focus and core competency of DataSite is to provide the most secure and reliable data center environment available. The skill set required to manage UPS systems, jet turbine generators, turbo core chillers and the other mechanical facilities critical to the performance of a world-class data center is very different from that of a hosting company which provides managed IT services for their clients. The DataSite staff is trained in all aspects of data center operations and the main focus is to ensure the availability of power, cooling and security for DataSite clients.

DataSite maintains a carrier neutral telecommunications environment for two main reasons. First, network communications is critical to all data center users and every organization has specific and unique network requirements, thus DataSite provides an environment where customers have unlimited choice in the type of service and service provider they prefer. Second, open competition among telecommunication carriers creates a competitive environment where customers can negotiate the best rates available in the open market.

All network carriers have dual entry fiber into DataSite via two diverse underground concrete-encased fiber duct banks entering the facility from the North and the South.

Yes, DataSite will permit clients to provision their own racks and cabinets.

DataSite proactively monitors and manages the temperature and humidity levels on the raised floor at all times.

No, DataSite does not have any scheduled downtime. The DataSite facility is designed to the Tier III/IV standard of being “concurrently maintainable.”

DataSite performs a generator test every week. Additionally, a full load test is performed once each quarter. The load test is performed using the on-site loadbank system simulates a full load on the generator plant. The loadbank system is critical for effective generator testing. Without a loadbank a data center may have to use the customer live power load to run the test and this could be catastrophic if the test is not successful.

Yes, DataSite operates an N+1 generator plant. This means that DataSite will always have an extra generator available for times when a generator is off-line for maintenance.

DataSite has 40,000 gallons of reserve fuel stored in underground tanks. At full capacity the generators will run for three days before requiring a resupply of fuel. The jet turbine generators are a multi-fuel system and can run on several different types of fuel that can be mixed in the tanks in any quantity. This fuel diversity is critical during a widespread power outage where there can be shortages for high demand fuel like diesel.

The batteries supporting the DataSite UPS system are designed for a runtime of 45 minutes, which is more than double the industry standard. Prior to going to battery back-up, DataSite would need to suffer a utility outage on affecting both utility substations feeding the property.