The Role of DCIM Tools in Data Centers

Data center infrastructure management (DCIM) can encompass the complete stack of a data center—databases, storage, servers, networking, cooling and power distribution. DCIM can manage this stack as an integrated whole. Often, DCIM is a set of software and hardware tools working together with input from many processes, both manual and automated. The integration of these tools defines a DCIM and to a large degree, its effectiveness. According to Gartner, DCIM tools will penetrate as high as 60% of companies and enter data center mainstream by 2014.

Benefits of DCIM tools:

• DCIM tools allow the data center managers to have a clear idea on the complete range of data center assets and the role of each in supporting the infrastructure.

• DCIM helps data center operators identify, visualize, locate and manage all physical assets and future requirements.

• DCIM tools increase operational efficiency by controlling the power usage and energy costs.

DCIM tools often integrate with Building Management System (BMS) platforms, thus providing the energy usage details of an entire building, the data center, and the specific pices equipment. DCIM systems collect readings on TT power and maps he total energy used by the data centerto derive the Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE).  This makes it easy for the data center operators to track and manage the data center cooling and powering needs. There are also some DCIM platforms that help monitor the rack-level power, environment, humidity, and temperature with ‘dashboards’ showing power usage of individual racks, servers and other IT equipment. DCIM allows IT to measure and perform optimization efforts.

Though DCIM tools provide a better insight into data center energy utilization, none of them has direct control of IT equipment or power. Your selection of thee right data center for your business who will in turn utilize the DCIM tools to help improve visibility and efficiency of your business operations.

Alex Carroll

Managing Member at Lifeline Data Centers

Alex, co-owner, is responsible for all real estate, construction and mission critical facilities: hardened buildings, power systems, cooling systems, fire suppression, and environmentals. Alex also manages relationships with the telecommunications providers and has an extensive background in IT infrastructure support, database administration and software design and development. Alex architected Lifeline’s proprietary GRCA system and is hands-on every day in the data center.