Automated Data Processing: Mainframe  

Overview

The Automated Data Processing Center for Main Frame System (ADP Mainframe) space types is a facility for "vertical" data processing equipment including dense frame and rack-mounted processing systems with critical uptime requirements. ADP Mainframe space types include facilities for true mainframes, and for dense server farms arranged on vertical racks of equipment.

Typical server room

Space Attributes

Typical features of ADP Mainframe space types include the list of applicable design objectives elements as outlined below. For a complete list and definitions of the design objectives within the context of whole building design, click on the titles below.

Functional / Operational

• Occupancy: ADP Mainframe spaces fall under Business Occupancy B2, with Sprinkler protected construction. The GSA Acoustical Class B2 for spaces with concentrations of noisy equipment.

• Raised floors: Raised floor is the preferred system for distribution of critical services (power, voice, data, and HVAC) in ADP Mainframe space types. Raised floors for ADP Mainframe may have low-pressure, high induction diffusers and should be constructed of concrete filled metal pans at 24" modules with pedestal and stringer support, with intermediate support.

• Technological connectivity: Conduit and outlet boxes are installed for fiber-optic main horizontal and vertical backbone system and high speed communication lines for servers.

• Dual path service lines for power: Dual path service lines ensure a constant power supply, which is critical to the operations of ADP Mainframe.

• HVAC with redundant components: Computer equipment operates within specific ranges of air quality, temperature, and relative humidity levels. Significant variations of these levels in the ADP Mainframe environment could cause disruptions in equipment operation and decrease the life of the equipment. To ensure proper operation of the ADP Mainframe spaces, redundant mechanical systems with service provided 24 hours per day and humidity control are typically installed. Separate thermostat controls should be provided in each room, even in areas of 24-hour operation, which can be overridden by the building automation system. Also, copier rooms, printer rooms, and service units should have 100% direct exhaust to maintain good indoor air quality. For more information, see WBDG High-Performance HVAC.

To control environmental temperature disparities and avoid downtime, a Best Practice is to use rows of equipment racks in an alternating arrangement of "cold aisles" and "hot aisles."
See also Alternating Cold and Hot Aisles Provides More Reliable Cooling for Server Farms by Robert F. "Dr. Bob" Sullivan. The Uptime Institute: 2000.

Productive

• Acoustic control: Sound baffles are provided at all acoustically rated partitions for the air supply system to control noise.

• Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): Typically, emergency power and uninterruptible power are provided to meet all electrical requirements of the entire ADP Mainframe facility for at least 30 minutes. For more information, see WBDG Productive—Assure Reliable Systems and Spaces.

Secure / Safe

• Security protection: All exterior windows to computer spaces, including teleprocessor room, mainframe room, server farms, and test rooms to be glass block or energy efficient glazing. For more information, see WBDG Secure / Safe— Security for Building Occupants and Assets.

Sustainable

IT systems, including PCs, data storage, and data processing are energy intensive activities. However, many options can be considered to reduce energy use while also increasing efficiencies and reducing overall costs. Many organizations are developing plans to modernize data centers to realize their full potential while also reducing their impact on the environment. Best practices include utilizing the latest technologies such as virtualization technology and cloud computing. Additionally, data center design footprint can be reduced by using high-density cooling and power equipment. For areas of a data center that create a lot of heat, zone cooling devices can be deployed.

Example Program

The following is a representative building program.

ADP (MAINFRAME)

Example Plans

The following is representative of typical tenant plans.

Example Construction Criteria

For GSA, the unit costs for ADP Mainframe space types are based on the construction quality and design features in the following table . This information is based on GSA's benchmark interpretation and could be different for other owners.

Relevant Codes and Standards

The following agencies and organizations have developed codes and standards affecting the design of ADP Mainframe spaces. Note that the codes and standards are minimum requirements. Architects, engineers, and consultants should consider exceeding the applicable requirements whenever possible:

• GSA PBS-P100 Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service
• ICC IBC International Building Code

Additional Resources

Publications

• Architectural Graphic Standards, 12th Edition by American Institute of Architects, Dennis J. Hall. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2016.
• PBS-P100 Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service, GSA
• GSA PBS Design Notebook for Federal Lobby Security Design

Organizations

• DELL Plant a Tree Program
• The Green Grid

Training

• Advanced HVAC in High-Tech Buildings - Data Centers
• Data Center Energy Efficiency Best Practices
• Data Center Energy Efficiency: Air Management
• Data Center Energy Efficiency: Cooling Systems
• Data Center Energy Efficiency: Electrical Systems
• Data Center Energy Efficiency: Environmental Conditions
• Data Center Energy Efficiency: IT Equipment and Software Efficiency
• Labs, Data Centers, and High-Tech Facilities