POSTED 08-30-2024 This is the second article in a series that we hope will help data center operators understand what can be done to create a high-performance data center. This article will attempt to move from the simplest to implement to the more complex. It will focus on hot and cold aisle configuration and containment. Early data center rack arrangements were often task-based, where racks performing similar functions were located in close proximity to each other. There was little attention paid to where the rack inlets and discharges were placed; that is, there were no defined hot and cold aisles. When racks are arranged such that there is no defined hot and cold aisle, the hot air being discharged from the racks mixes with the air entering nearby racks, thus raising the temperature. This condition has two negative impacts. Read the full article here for more information on how hot aisle configuration and containment saves energy. Written by: Raymond Johnson, II, PE, LEED AP Senior Associate Principal Director of Mission Critical Learn more about our mission critical services.