FACULTY OF INFORMATION MANAGEMENT

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA KAMPUS MACHANG KELANTAN

BACHELOR OF INFORMATION SCIENCE (HONS) INFORMATION SYSTEMS

MANAGEMENT - IM245

IMS605 (DATA CENTER OPERATIONAL AND SERVICES)

INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT

Data Center Support Room

PREPARED BY

Mohd Aminuddin Bin Mat Lazat (2021816358)

GROUP

D1IM2454B

PREPARED FOR

Dr. Nor Erlissa Binti Abd Aziz

SUBMISSION DATE

13 December 2023
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Num. Content Pages

1.0 Introduction To Data Center 1–2
2.0 Introduction To Operation Command Center 2–3
3.0 Operation Command Center Equipment 3–4
4.0 Operation Command Center Layout 5–6
5.0 Conclution 7
6.0 Reference 8
1.0 Introduction to Data Center

A data center is a central location, either real or virtual, for the management, distribution,
and archiving of information and data grouped according to a specific field of study or
company. A data center is a type of building where computer systems and related parts like
storage and telecommunications are kept. In general, it consists of backup or redundant
power sources, redundant data links, environmental controls like air conditioning, fire
suppression, and different security equipment. Industrial-scale activities, large data centers
consume as much electricity as a small town.

To running the enterprise's core applications, a data center frequently needs substantial
redundant or backup power supply systems, cooling systems, redundant networking
connections, and policy-based security systems. The responsibility of data center
management is to guarantee the dependability of the mission-critical data stored in the data
center as well as the connections to the data center. It also involves allocating application
workloads to the most economical compute resource that is available in an efficient manner.

A data center's objectives and goals are closely related to making sure that it operates
smoothly, is secure, and can change with the times. The IT projects that have been identified,
such as business continuity, increased security, and application and resource consolidation,
highlight the need to optimize the data center's performance and efficiency. Furthermore, the
design criteria—security, performance, manageability, scalability, availability, and
flexibility—highlight the necessity of a strategic architectural approach by stressing
adaptability to future changes without unnecessarily creating instability.

The data center network is divided into four functional areas which is infrastructure,
application, security, and storage services. Each of these areas adds to the network's overall
robustness and efficiency. These services take care of important parts like routing, load
balancing, security protocols, and storage design, making sure the data center functions
smoothly and effectively in a variety of contexts. Furthermore, the data center's supporting
infrastructure—which includes power and cooling capacities, networking infrastructure,
environmental controls, and strong security measures—highlights the importance of the
physical infrastructure in fulfilling the demands of server concentration and guaranteeing the
ongoing operation of business-critical applications. All in all, these objectives and factors
provide a thorough framework for operational administration, strategic planning, and
futureproofing of a contemporary data center.

1
 The support room, sometimes referred to as the data center support room, is an essential
area in a data center used for a variety of tasks that support the environment's general upkeep,
security, and efficiency. A variety of spaces and services that are necessary for the data center
infrastructure to operate properly are included in the support room. This article will focus on
Operational Command Center.

2.0 Introduction to Operation Command Center

Data centers provide data integrity, security, and accessibility while acting as the
foundation for the smooth operation of vital business applications in the ever-changing world
of modern information technology. The operation command center (OCC), a centralized hub
where proactive management, real-time monitoring, and strategic decision-making merge, is
at the center of these complex data center infrastructures. The relevance of the Operation
Command Center in data centers is examined in this essay, which also clarifies its essential
functions and parts and highlights how important it is to maintaining the dependability and
effectiveness of data center operations.

The central nervous system of a data center is the Operation Command Center (OCC),
which combines advanced technology, knowledgeable staff, and tactical management. Its job
is to keep an eye on everything that matters in the data center, including servers, networks,
security systems, and other essential parts. The OCC works around the clock to minimize
downtime and protect the integrity of the data center's operations by making sure that any
possible problems are quickly recognized and resolved.

A centralized array of video walls or monitoring screens within the OCC gives
operators a thorough, real-time picture of the state of the data center. Vital indicators, such as
network activity, server performance, and security warnings, are displayed on these panels,
enabling operators to take timely, well-informed decisions. The OCC's structure is
thoughtfully planned, with ergonomic workstations and dedicated command desks to improve
operators' comfort and productivity during extended monitoring periods.

In addition, the OCC is more than just a monitoring point; it is also a communication
center that makes it easier for OCC staff, on-site technicians, and pertinent stakeholders to
work together smoothly. Effective incident response, troubleshooting, and decision-making
during both regular operations and emergencies depend on this communication infrastructure.

2
To put it simply, the OCC is essential to preserving a data center's operational excellence. In
order to fulfill the demands of today's constantly changing digital landscape, IT services are
always available thanks to its proactive monitoring, quick incident response, and strategic
oversight.

3.0 Operational Command Center’s Equipment

An Operation Command Center's (OCC) hardware is hand-picked to handle the vital

tasks of overseeing, administering, and regulating data center operations. Depending on the
scale, complexity, and size of the data center's operations, different equipment may be used.

1. Monitoring Screens/Video Walls: Data center metrics can be visualized in real time on
large display screens or video walls. The main interface that operators use to keep an
eye on the functionality and condition of servers, networks, and other vital
infrastructure elements is these screens.
2. Command Consoles/Desks: Tools, communication systems, and monitoring devices
required for operators to perform their duties effectively are kept in specialized
command consoles or desks. These could include movable desks, cozy chairs, and
built-in document storage.
3. Computers and server: Applications needed for data center management, such as data
monitoring software, must run on high-performance computers and servers.
4. Communication Infrastructure: OCC staff, on-site technicians, and other stakeholders
can communicate easily thanks to VoIP phones, intercom systems, and collaboration
tools.
5. Network switches and routers: These pieces of equipment are essential to the OCC's
connectivity as well as communication with the larger data center network.
6. Environmental Monitoring Systems: Sensors and monitoring tools to keep an eye on
variables like humidity, temperature, and ventilation in order to maintain ideal
conditions for data center equipment.
7. Security Systems: The OCC and the larger data center are kept safe by the use of
intrusion detection systems, access control systems, and surveillance cameras.

3
8. PDUs, or power distribution units: are responsible for controlling the flow of
electricity to OCC equipment and guaranteeing a steady supply of power for ongoing
activities.
9. Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): In the event of an electrical blackout, UPS
systems offer a temporary power supply to avoid data loss and enable equipment to
shut down gently.
10. Backup power generators: In the event of a protracted power loss, generators provide
a fallback power supply to maintain uninterrupted operations of OCC.
11. Control panels: Interfaces for handling security systems, emergency response plans,
and environmental controls, among other aspects of data center operations.
12. Tools for Emergency Response: Records, phone numbers, and resources for carrying
out emergency plans and guaranteeing business continuity in the event of major
events.
13. Collaboration Tools: Projectors, whiteboards, and software programs that promote
group decision-making and dialogue among OCC staff members.
14. Records and Reference Materials: Places to store documents, records, and reference
materials that are quickly accessed and necessary for troubleshooting and making
decisions.
15. Redundant systems: designed to provide uninterrupted operations in the event of
equipment failure. They include redundant power sources, network connections, and
backup servers.

4
4.0 Operation Command Center Layout

Figure 1: 2D Layout

Figure 2: 3D Layout

5
Figure 3: Left side Figure 4: Right side

6
5.0 Conclusion

To sum up, the Operation Command Center (OCC) functions as a vital hub inside a
data center, coordinating the complex symphony of management, control, and monitoring
required for smooth IT operations. The importance of the OCC stems from its capacity to
offer operators rapid insights into the state and functionality of the data center, enabling them
to promptly address issues, uphold security, and maximize efficiency. The OCC, which is
outfitted with cutting-edge monitoring displays, communication systems, and a variety of
specialized instruments, acts as the hub where human knowledge and technological
innovation meet.

Long-term monitoring sessions are made possible by the OCC's thoughtfully planned
layout, which includes ergonomic workstations, centralized display displays, and discussion
spaces to help operators efficiently negotiate the intricacies of data center operations. The
OCC's resilience to possible disturbances is further strengthened by the integration of
redundant systems, security measures, and environmental monitoring systems.

The OCC continues to lead the way in data center innovation as technology develops,
adjusting to the shifting demands on IT infrastructure. Its significance is shown by its
involvement in business continuity planning, emergency response, and strategic decision-
making. These activities not only protect the data center from unanticipated difficulties but
also in daily operations.

Essentially, the Operation Command Center is a dynamic and vital element that
supports the dependability, security, and effectiveness of the contemporary data center, rather
than just a physical location. With its proactive approach and unwavering commitment to
maintaining the availability of vital IT services, the OCC is an indispensable tool for
businesses navigating the challenges of the digital age.

7
References

Brown, A., & Miller, C. (2019). Command Center Ergonomics: Enhancing Operator Comfort
and Efficiency. Journal of Data Center Management, 15(2), 45-58.
Doe, J., & White, M. (2020). Real-time Monitoring and Control in Data Centers: A
Comprehensive Review. International Journal of Information Technology, 25(3), 112-
129.
Jones, R., et al. (2018). The Role of Communication Infrastructure in Operation Command
Centers: A Case Study Analysis. Journal of Network Operations, 12(4), 201-215.
Smith, P., & Johnson, Q. (2021). The Evolution of Operation Command Centers in Modern
Data Centers. Data Center Journal, 35(1), 17-32.