Emerging Realities and New Protocols for Power Distribution: High Voltage and DC
Moderator
Event Type
Panel
Energy
HPC Center Planning and Operations
Power
State of the Practice
TimeThursday, November 17th10:30am - 12pm
Location255-BC
DescriptionPower requirements for high-performance computers far surpass those of enterprise-servers, creating substantial loads and challenges. With enterprise racks drawing 4-15kW, their HPC counterparts can draw 40-150kW. Typical servers require 120volts, single-phase to operate, whereas high-performance-computers up the ante to 480volts, three-phase. This allows manageable wire sizes and improved efficiency. Alternating current (ac) is ubiquitous, but is direct current (dc) more efficient, reliable and less expensive? Will this trend accelerate with use of renewables? Many high-performance-computers use high-voltage dc internally; why not in the data center?
The implications for these new power distribution systems demand major shifts for both the infrastructure and operations of the data-center. Are we prepared for this shift? Will dc be compelling enough to drive the eco-system? What needs to be done to bridge the gap and ease the transition? This panel promises a lively discussion with experts in power distribution from the vendor and user community.
The implications for these new power distribution systems demand major shifts for both the infrastructure and operations of the data-center. Are we prepared for this shift? Will dc be compelling enough to drive the eco-system? What needs to be done to bridge the gap and ease the transition? This panel promises a lively discussion with experts in power distribution from the vendor and user community.
