Data Center Expansion Advanced Conceptual Design

Artist's rendering of NCAR's expandable, flexible data center that can support geosciences computing needs well into the future. Two phases of expansion are shown on both sides of the initial construction; these can be added when the need for more space is justified by scientific demand. This proactive work acknowledges that next-generation supercomputers with their associated cyberinfrastructure will require more space and cooling capacity than existing data centers can provide.

Two years ago, a conceptual design was completed to address the long-term needs of NCAR supercomputing. The overall strategy encompasses building an expandable, flexible facility that can meet NCAR's needs for at least the next 20 years. The plan uses state-of-the-art design principles and anticipates higher heat densities leading to the eventual re-emergence of liquid-cooled equipment.

During FY 2006, the concept design has been further refined and studied. A number of potential sites and partners have been evaluated. As specific sites were further evaluated, the overall concept was refined, particularly to address how cost savings can be realized without giving up the original functionality and flexibility.

As the evaluations continued, the number of sites and options were progressively narrowed. Late in FY 2006, our options narrowed to two specific sites in partnership with either the University of Colorado or Wyoming. Revised conceptual designs were further modified and updated, tailoring them to the specifics of these two sites. Partner selection and full design work are anticipated for FY 2007.

This work supports NCAR's strategic goal to "Provide robust, accessible, and innovative information services and tools," and the related strategic priority of "Enhancing capability and capacity of NCAR supercomputing." It is made possible through NSF Core funding.