FACILITIES FOR COMPUTING EQUIPMENT

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: General CIA Records
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP89-00244R000100070004-2
• Release Decision: RIPPUB
• Original Classification: K
• Document Page Count: 11
• Document Creation Date: December 16, 2016
• Document Release Date: July 5, 2005
• Sequence Number: 4
• Publication Date: July 10, 1981
• Content Type: MF

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ODP 81- 893
10 July 1981
MEMORANDUM FOR: Chairman, Building Planning Committee
TAT FROM
DDA Representative
SUBJECT: Facilities for Computing Equipment
As I mentioned in ODP's response to your initial set
of questions on building requirements, ODP engineers have
assembled some recommendations and suggestions which we
feel would be applicable in the design of any new structure.
Having designed, configured and maintained computer oriented
facilities for almost twenty years has given us unique in-
sights and experiences.in this area. We hope you find the I
attachment useful.
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2 July 1981
1. FLOOR
Should be rigid grid construction with 2' length stringers capable
of being walked upon. Floor height should be minimum of 18" but not more
than 24". A floor height greater than 24" makes changes which require
laying in new cables, removing cables or rerouting cables more difficult
for those who do this work. Also, as height is increased, lateral
stability of the floor decreases and this is important when moving heavy
equipment on the floor.
I would suggest that a bi-level floor design be investigated. This
could be a series of parallel beams which would permit a 12", 18" or 24"
raised floor above the beams and a space below the beams of 12" or 18"
or 24". The lower space would be used for utilities such as chilled water
piping, electrical conduits, communications cables, etc. Beams would only
need run in one direction and would be set on 24" centers. Beam width would
be 4" which will provide adequate surface for the placement of pedestals to
support the computer room raised floor consisting of 24" square panels and
their rigid grid. Panels could be fabricated which would rest on the beams
and provide a separate deck or covering of the lower area. (See attached
sketches of one idea for a bi-level floor). With a bi-level floor, an upper
level space.may only need a 12" clearance, and a 12" clearance might be
sufficient for the lower or utility level. Floors in computer areas could
be planned to be level with corridor floors by having sunken slabs on which
to construct a bi-level or single level raised floor and thus eliminate the
need for ramps, which saves floor space and reduces problems encountered in
moving equipment in or out.
Floor load rating should be 150 lbs. live load minimum.
2. COLUMNS
Our present computer centers have columns which vary in size from 20"
square to 33" square with about 90% being located on 20' centers. An ideal
computer center would be columnless, however, columns on 50' centers, or
greater than 50' should be specified, if columns are necessary. Columns
are detrimental to the placement of equipment in that gate swing clearances
of equipments located adjacent to them must be independent, since that space
cannot be shared with the gate swing clearances of other equipments which
is the case in the placement of machines in areas not encumbered by columns.
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Columns are not totally undesirable none-the-less, since they provide
surfaces on which electrical distribution panels, emergency lights, telephones,
fire extinguishers, annunciator panels, etc., can be mounted. What we are
really saying here is that columns on 20' centers are not good for computer'
areas housing large scale computers which is the case for ODP, and we would
like to see considerably greater spans between columns.
3. PIPE-CHASES
Pipe-chases are vertical enclosures which contain various types of piping
running vertically between floors in a building. They usually are built
immediately adjacent to columns which greatly adds to the consumption of
floor space. Very often they are 3' to 4' in length and are as wide as
the column they abut. In effect they are, to us, the same as columns and
affect us similarly, therefore, as with columns, we would prefer that they
be eliminated. or minimized as much as possible in a computer center.
4. AIR-CONDITIONING
The original GC-03 computer center was provided its air-conditioning
from an independent set of four chillers (one was back-up) and a fan-coil
room located in the Director's driveway. Air entered the room via ducts
in the ceiling of the Director's driveway which discharged the cool air
under the computer center raised floor. This is the ideal way to provide
air conditioning in a computer center since there is no chilled-water piping
under the raised floor and there are no air-handlers in the computer center
occupying valuable floor space. An effort should be made to provide this
type of air-conditioning in any new computer center in a new building.
Air-handlers which are located on the computer room floor should be avoided.
As an alternative, if an ideal system cannot be provided, we would prefer
the use of suspended air-handlers hung in the computer area ceiling. Also,
regardless of how the cool air is delivered to the computer room, dedicated
chillers, with back-up chillers should be the source of the required chilled-
water. These dedicated chillers and the fan-coil units which deliver the
conditioned air also should have their own auto-start back-up diesel generator,
as a secondary power source. There should also be valving provided in the
chilled water system to obtain chilled-water from the building chillers
in the event the dedicated system fails. Additionally, power should be
obtainable from another source other than the back-up diesel generator in
the event the back-up fails. Total B.T.Us dissipated will have to be
calculated in order to design an adequate HVAC system.
5. CEILING
A suspended ceiling should be provided and have a height of 9'6" above
the top of the raised floor. Ceiling panels should be sealed, non-dusting
type.
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6. POWER
Power is probably the most important and costly single element to be
considered in the design of a new computer center. We presently have four
U.P.S. systems, two supply 60HZ, 208 volt power and two supply 415HZ,
208VPower. SAFE has one large 60HZ, 208V UPS. For the building, there are
five large back-up automatic start, diesel generators, three are rated at
2,5000K.W. and two at2,000K.W. Power requirements for a new center will
have to be calculated in predicating the power design. The power system
design will have to make certain that there will be adequate availability
of back-up power from the diesel generators to a new building and its
computer areas. Also, provision of 60HZ and 415HZ UPS systems will be
required. - O f S ?
We have had a vast amount of experience with power, some good and
some bad. There has been more experience on the good side to indicate that
we should continue to hav OPS ystems. From what we have learned over the
years, we should consider multiple, switchable UPS systems with a least one
standby unit of both 60 HZ and 415 HZ types. We want a switching matrix
that will provide full and complete switching from any primary power source
or back-up power source to any load. Also, dual, switchable feeders from
the compound's power plant to the building vault or vaults and dual,
switchable feeders from the building vault or vaults to the computer area
or areas.
For several years 415HZ power to GC-47 has been supplied from two
solid state frequency converters which are powered from the large Emerson
1300KVA, 60HZ UPS. This method of obtaining 415HZ power, while less efficient
than via an independent 415HZ UPS, has been exceptionally reliable. Plus
factors for this method are:, it is automatically a UPS since it is powered
by a 60HZ UPS and it automatically continues supplying 415HZ power to GC-47
when the Emerson 60HZ UPS goes to by-pass. An independent 415HZ UPS cannot
go to by-pass. When it fails 415HZ power is lost. In view of this, we
might want to consider generating all 415HZ power in a new computer center
this way. Advantages for this technique are, in addition to the two already
mentioned: only 60HZ type UPS systems will be needed which should reduce
maintenance capability and spare-parts requirements; stand-alone frequency
converters appear to be the most highly reliable of all the solid-state
equipments. Another factor which might, influence our thinking in considering
frequency converters driven by a 60HZ UPS for 415HZ power is the fact that
415HZ power requirements have decreased dramatically: for example, the 415HZ
requirement for an IBM 3033 is 57KVA but for the new IBM 3081 it is only
23KVA. As stated earlier, the only negative factor is it is less efficient,
meaning it consumers more input power which increases our electric bill.
This additional expense, however, can be offset for a considerable time
period in view of the fact that there would be no investment in a separate
415HZ UPS.
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Back-up for 415HZ power will be necessary. We have two choices for
doing this: one method is to use stand-by solid state frequency converters
and the other is to use rotary type motor-generator sets. The pros and
cons of which alternative is to be selected will have to be reviewed when
planning gets to that point. Regardless of which method is employed, we
must make certain that a switching matrix will be provided which will enable
us to supply any equipment requiring 415HZ power from any back-up power
source.
When 60HZ UPS systems fail totally, they switch automatically to what
is termed "By-Pass Mode". This means that the load is shifted to raw VEPCO
power. In the activities which follow this type of 60HZ UPS failure, namely
trouble shooting and repairing the failed system, it often becomes necessary
to switch the load to another VEPCO source which is termed "Maintenance
By-Pass". This is done to make it possible to disconnect all input power
from the failed UPS for safety during the repair time and also, to make
possible independent testing of an UPS system. At the present time, we do
this in a make-shift or improvised manner. In a new computer environment,
we should plan for doing this by a simple prescribed method utilizing
transfer switches designed to perform this function which will enable us
to do this without keeping our fingers crossed.
Line Drop Compensators (LDCs) are new items which we are presently
planning to install in our existing centers. These units are designed to
automatically control the output voltages being delivered to the computers.
An adequate number of LDCs should be included in the electrical power
planning and included in the electrical facilities design.
A "Load Bank" should be planned. Load Banks are large resistance units
which are connected to various power sources when tests are conducted. UPS
systems are items which are tested or checked under load utilizing load banks
to provide the load. The load Bank or Banks should be on casters in order
that they can be moved easily to the UPS locations.
A maintenance facility for UPS maintenance should be planned. This
facility should have a complete set of test instruments, meters, calibration
devices, back-up equipment, etc., necessary to diagnose and repair UPS systems.
The UPS maintenance facility should have a storage area for spare parts
complete with bins, cabinets, etc., for keeping the spare parts in an
orderly manner.
Recent conversations with UPS vendors and users indicate there is a
trend toward the use of mini or micro computers for monitoring the operations
of UPS systems, compiling various operational records of the units and
alerting the operational and maintenance personnel of the functional status
of each system. It is possible that we might incorporate some ideas of this
nature in our planning.
Convenience outlets (120V) throughout the computer area and also in
some remote terminal and RJE areas should be fed from a 60HZ UPS system.
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7. PATCH PANELS
Patch panels are used in our centers as the nerve centers of the
communication network linking the computers with terminals and other
remotely located equipments outside of the computer room. These units
require expansion periodically and since there is a very large concentration
of signal cables centering in these locations, which radiate to remote
areas, careful planning should be done in.determining their location,
keeping in mind expansion space for them as well as the avenues and methods
by which their cables will be brought to them.
8. LOUNGE AREAS
At present, we have lounge areas in our computer rooms. Plans for a new
building should incorporate lounge areas in or immediately adjacent to
computer rooms. Lounges should be furnished with comfortable chairs, a
sofa, at least one table, a magazine rack, a kitchen consisting of a sink
with hot and cold water, a counter, cabinets, a microwave oven, coffee maker
and a refrigerator. The lounge should be attractively appointed. Also,
small lockers and coat racks should be included.
9. MULTI-LEVEL COMPUTER FACILITIES
Many computer centers today are multi-level vertically including one
of ours. Some are two level and some are three level. Large centers with
multiple CPUs, utilizing complex interface switching networks, encounter
problems in connecting various I-0 devices because of cable length limita-
tions imposed upon them by the vendors. The multi-level computer center has
developed as the answer to solving this problem. A three level computer
center appears to provide the best solution with CPUs and channels being
located on the mid level and I-0 equipments installed on the lower and upper
levels. It appears that we must think in terms of multi-level computer areas.
With multi-level computer areas it will be necessary to plan vertical
cable-ways between levels. Currently, in our Ruffing Center, we have eleven
cable-ways and ultimately will have additional cable-ways.
Another item which must be planned in a multi-level environment is
personnel access between levels via either stairways or elevators. Present
plans for the Ruffing Center call for the construction of a stairway between
its two levels. This planned stairway design, unfortunately, is larger
than we would like, requiring an opening of about 10'x8' as opposed to a
small two passenger elevator which can be accommodated in a 5'x4' opening.
Spiral stairways would require less space and, therefore, should be
considered. The point being made here is to keep in mind the fact that we
think in terms of obtaining as much floor space as we can in a computer
room.
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10. LOADING DOCK
The new building should have a loading dock with a vertical clearance
of 14 feet to receive large semi-trailers. A heavy duty adjustable ramp
is required and a loading platform 20 feet or more in depth is needed.
11. CORRIDORS
Corridors from loading dock area to computer room should be at least six
feet in width and be even wider at the computer room main entry points in
order that equipment being moved into or out of a computer room can be
turned when being moved in or out of the room without becoming jammed in
the corridor.
12. FREIGHT ELEVATORS
In the case of a multi-level computer environment we will have to
make certain that freight elevators of adequate size be installed and also
that the area in front of the elevator is large enough to permit easy
loading of equipment on the elevator.
13. SOUND SYSTEM
Our existing centers are equipped with sound systems which are used for
music and for paging. Any new computer areas should have sound systems for
music and paging.
14. CLOCKS
Clocks, such as those in use in the Ruffing Center are necessary in a
new computer center.
15. ACOUSTICS
Provision should be made to suppress noise in a computer area. Usually
walls and columns are covered with "Pan Tile" as was done in 1D16. Some
computer rooms have used carpeting on walls and columns. Ceiling panels,
even the non-dusting type have acoustical quality. Carpeted floor panels
also are use, but they have some bad characteristics so we have avoided
using them.
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16. PHYSICAL SECURITY
There are needs for varying degrees of physical security, in a computer
center. Counters are used to block unwanted access, gates which are operated
from badge readers are used, receptionists are employed, automatic sliding
doors actuated by badge readers, walls of partial and full height are also
used. Security alarm systems as well as fire, smoke and water detection
systems also are needed. Vault doors, steel clad doors with dead bolts
have been used widely and must be planned for, remembering that they must
be high enough and wide enough at certain points to admit equipment movement
through them.
17. POINT AREAS
Point areas are the locations where computer output users and others
make contact with computer room personnel. Points are usually at the main
entrance to a computer room. Periodically,,during the day, traffic at the
Point becomes heavy, sometimes with people pushing carts, therefore, there
must be sufficient space planned to accommodate the traffic. Counters and
rack type bins are needed at the Point for paper handling. Ideas for a
post office box arrangement at the Point with individual boxes being assigned
to users with each user having a key, which could be the magnetic stripe on
his badge, to open his box have been discussed. Computer room supervisory
personnel usually have offices at the Point, therefore, this should be
planned.
18. SUPPLIES STORAGE
Currently we have no really planned supplies storage areas. Supplies
storage is a large problem and adequate storage areas convenient to the
computer operations should be planned.
19. STAGING AREAS
For a number of years we have talked about providing some space in
computer centers which we call staging areas. These areas have been thought
of as being approximately 1,000 sq. ft. and would be utilized to receive
and unpack new equipments being installed and as space in which equipments
being removed can be parked and packed awaiting shipment to some other
place. Some space for a staging area should be provided in a new center.
20. C.E. SPACE
Customer Engineers of the various vendor organizations require space
which they use as office space and spare-parts storage. Space for C.E.s
is specified in the contracts we have with the vendors, therefore, this
type of space either within the computer area or adjacent will have to be
planned.
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21. SAFETY
The usual fire, smoke and water detection system will have to be
provided as well as sprinkler systems (which we dislike) and Halon systems
(which we like). Other safety aspects must also be planned, such as fire
extinguishers, exit signs, alarms, annunciator panels, status panels, etc.
22. PHYSICAL SECURITY
Currently our centers have vault doors and also metal clad doors with
combination locks. Other metal clad doors have dead-bolts with combination
padlocks. Centers also are equipped with sonic alarm systems. Windows are
metal covered. Similar measures will need to be provided in the new centers.
23. LIGHTING
Florescent lighting should be provided; with fixtures being flush
mounted in the ceiling grid.
24. VACUUM SYSTEM
Currently, we do not have a central vacuum system in any centers and,
therefore, use conventional industrial type portable vacuum cleaners to
do our cleaning, much of which is the cleaning of the under floor area.
A central vacuum system, with ports into which vacuum hoses can be plugged
should be planned. Ports should be located on 30' centers making it
possible to plug in hoses approximately of 20' length in order to cover the
entire area in any computer room.
A vacuum system for removing dirt brought into a computer room on the
shoes of people entering the area might be incorporated in the plan as
a grid at the entrances which would pull the dirt off of shoes as people
walked over it when entering the computer area.
25. MULTIPLE CENTERS
It might be a good idea to build more than a single center or at
least compartmentize a single center by erecting masonry or fireproof
walls which would isolate major areas from each other. The idea being to
reduce the impact of fire, flooding, smoke damage, explosion, etc., to the
overall operation of the computer systems in the event of any such calamity
and allow at least some operations to continue. The idea of multi-level
computer rooms, mentioned earlier, has a degree of isolation built in.
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26. MISCELLANEOUS
It might be a good idea to delegate one or two people to visit
periodically other computer installations of both other users and vendors
to obtain a first hand awareness of what is happening in computer centers
around the country, from the physical aspect. It may be of benefit to us
to take advantage of any new ideas or innovations that might be observed.
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