The “classical” approach to the conception of large contemporary data centers could be exemplified by Google: it usually consist of a “shoe box” (large facility with no particular architectural expression, windowless facades), surmounted by big cooling devices. That’s mainly it for the architectural side.
Data Center (Regular) Design – as industry knows it
A brief history of cloud computing
How Cloud Computing Works
The Home & Personal Data(-Mining) Center
Interestingly, when it comes to experimentation with hardware and The Cloud (or more generally with servers), the most interesting and almost crazy examples are made by the hobbyists and makers who are building and customizing their own data (Bitcoin) mining farms.
It happens in their houses, caves, bathrooms, bedrooms, closets, etc., it seems their are no limits to experimentation. A “house miner” even hacked his own swimming pool to cool down his servers (Portrait of a Bitcoin Miner, link below).
It is almost a subculture of home-brewed personal data-centers, built at home (or at the small office).
A few notable examples in pictures above (where we can verify that the questions of cooling and cables organization are for real…)
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More insane rigs:
https://99bitcoins.com/20-insane-bitcoin-mining-rigs/
http://www.thinkcomputers.org/insane-crypto-currency-mining-rigs/
A portrait of “Eric”, a Bitcoin miner:
“Eric built a custom cooling system using water from his swimming pool.”
And more “mining rigs” of all sorts on Google Image…
The Home Data Center
For a fully configured and directly buyable personal cluster (21’000.- $, still), see also for example the Personal Cluster Model 1600 by Nor-Tech.
Reblog > The Home Data Center: Man Cave for the Internet Age
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By Rich Miller
In the ultimate manifestation of the “server hugger” who wants to be close to their equipment, a number of hobbyists and IT professionals have set up data centers in their home, creating server rooms in garages, basements and home offices.
The home data center is a novel extension of the central role that data centers now play in modern life. These enthusiasts are driven by a passion for IT, and use their gear for test-driving new equipment, lightweight web hosting or just as the ultimate technology ManCave.
Whatever the motivation, this level of connected house requires some adaptations, including upgrading power and network connections and running cable throughout a residential home.
