How Row-based Data Center Cooling Works

LEGACY CONTENT: This content is older yet still valid and provides valuable insights. However, it may contain data and/or messaging written under different technological or market circumstances. ------ Row-based data center cooling is normally regarded as a “cold air supply” architecture that uses row-based coolers. However, row-based cooling is actually a “hot air capture” architecture that neutralizes hot air from IT equipment before it has a chance to mix with the surrounding air in the room. This paper discusses common misconceptions about row-based cooling, explains how row-based cooling removes hot air, and describes key design attributes that maximize the effectiveness of this approach.