Reflections on the DataCenterDynamics Conference

Earlier this month, I had the honor of speaking in two separate sessions at the DatacenterDynamics Conference & Expo in New York City.

My first presentation, "The Impact of Numerical Modeling Techniques on Computer Room Design and Operations," was well received by its 60 or so attendees. Based on audience feedback provided both during and after the presentation, I think people really appreciated the practical examples and case studies of lessons learned since PTS began utilizing 3-D computational fluid dynamic (CFD) software as a tool for designing cooling solutions.

My second stint, with co-presenter Herman Chan from Raritan Computer, Inc., was equally well received. Our presentation on "Stop Ignoring Rack PDUs" described the research both our companies have undertaken regarding rack-level, IT equipment, real-time power monitoring.

As part of our presentation we displayed the results of our power usage study of PTS’ computer room. The data revealed that 58% of the total power consumption of PTS’ computer room is consumed and dissipated as heat by the IT critical load. This proves to be far better than some other industry data. In the coming months, both Raritan and PTS hope to release a co-written white paper documenting the results of our study.

Overall, the DatacenterDynamics’ show was even better attended and better sponsored than it was in 2007. I estimate there were some 500-700 people in attendance for the event. If the trend holds true from last year, about 50% of them were data center operators. The balance of the attendance was made up of consultants, vendors, and others.

This show has become my favorite regional data center industry event because of its unique single day format and for the quality of the content provided by its featured speakers (and I’m not just saying that because I’m a presenter). Many shows of this type turn into a commercial for the vendors that pay good money to sponsor the event.

What sets DataCenterDynamics apart is that the event organizers demand that each presentation be consultative in nature. Additionally, they make every effort to review and comment on each presentation before the event. If you haven’t attended this key data center industry event yet, I hope you’ll get the chance to do so in the near future.

Have you attended DataCenterDynamics? What sessions did you find most valuable? Please leave a comment to share your experience.