What you are looking at is the shape of things to come.

This is a completely new way to distribute power in the datacenter, it is called "Starline Busway." Though we have taken to calling it "Starbus" for short. It is to rack power what track lighting is to illumination. Rather than having to run individual circuits from large Power Distribution Units to each rack, we pre-build a power bus above the row of racks and insert circuit modules into the track where needed, when needed.

This has many benefits for all concerned. Power can be provisioned almost instantly, as we have an inventory of circuit modules. Power can be reallocated, or relocated on the fly. No need for an electrician to install, or remove circuits. Additionally this three phase power, so it will support the densities and demands we see as a matter of routine today. The system is designed with feedback displays on the distribution so we will be better able to manage the power usage across all the phases.

The above photo is a shot of our new space under construction, Datacenter Three. We have also installed some busway in Datacenter One and it is already in use:

Above: This is the "Bus Stop" at the end of the busway. It is contains the connections to the UPS upstream, passing through to the busway downstream. On the panel are an LED display which calls out amperage in use along the phases in cycles, as well as monitoring ports for management of the system.

Above: An example circuit module installed in the busway.

Above: A shot which shows traditional wire mold installed circuits, with two busway circuits adjacent. Circuit modules can support single and multiple outlet configurations depending upon what sort of circuits are required.

We are excited to be installing the Starline Busway, and once they see it in action we're certain our clients will share our enthusiasm. This is very cool technology.

Stay tuned for more news as Datacenter Three approaches completion.

--Chuck Goolsbee
V.P. Technical Operations
digital.forest, Inc.