Data Center ITE and Telecommunications Equipment Access

Efficient and safe delivery of Information Technology Equipment (ITE) and telecommunications gear is essential in data center planning. Proper architectural provisions ensure smooth installation, minimize risks, and future-proof the facility for larger or heavier equipment.

Minimum Requirements for Equipment Delivery Path

To accommodate the delivery of large and heavy ITE/telecom equipment (up to 3m [10 ft] long × 1.2m [4 ft] deep × 2.4m [8 ft] high, weight > 3400 kg [7500 lb]), the following architectural features are required:

Doorways (including internal and external delivery doors):

• Minimum Height: 2.4m (8 ft)
• Minimum Width: 1.2m (4 ft)

Elevators or Lifts (if part of the delivery path):

• Door Height: 2.4m (8 ft)
• Door Width: 1.2m (4 ft)
• Cabin Depth: 1.5m (5 ft)
• Minimum Lifting Capacity : 1500 kg (3300 lb)

Recommended Design Enhancements

For data centers expecting to deploy oversized cabinets/racks (>42RU or 42OU) or accommodate future high-density equipment, enhanced architectural clearances are recommended:

Vertical Clearance (Ceiling Height):

• At least 3m (10 ft) along the full delivery path

Elevator Enhancements:

• Door Height: 3m (10 ft)
• Door Width: 1.5m (5 ft)
• Cabin Depth: 1.5m (5 ft)
• Minimum Lifting Capacity: 3000 kg (6600 lb)

Key Takeaways

• Early planning of equipment access paths ensures seamless installation and future scalability.

• Properly sized doors, hallways, and elevators reduce the need for costly retrofits or complex rigging.

• Meeting or exceeding these specs ensures compliance with modern data center standards and enhances operational efficiency.

Northern Link encourages facility planners to integrate these access standards into design blueprints for optimal deployment of critical infrastructure.