Configuring Data Centers to Support IBM BladeCenter Servers

The IBM BladeCenter operates at a power density 10X greater than the capability of a typical data center, which demands special attention to the power and cooling system. Success in deploying these servers - there are five basic strategies - requires an understanding of several inputs, including the business needs driving the deployment, user preferences, blade requirements, and constraints. This Application Note considers these inputs, and guides the reader to (1) select the best deployment method from the five basic methods, (2) choose the appropriate rack, cooling, power, and management solutions, and (3) apply these solutions to fit individual needs.