A scenario in which data centers have become the operational core of this digital transformation, hosting millions of critical operations that require 24/7 availability and precise energy management.
However, the rapid growth of these infrastructures has brought with it a series of enormous technical challenges, the most relevant being energy efficiency and continuity of electricity supply. These two aspects are not independent, since optimizing energy consumption must be done without compromising the operational resilience of the system; especially in environments where a single second of downtime can translate into losses of millions of dollars or critical impacts on essential services.
To address these challenges, the design of the electrical architecture plays a fundamental role, aiming to guarantee uninterrupted power in an efficient, flexible, scalable, and maintainable manner. In this context, design decisions regarding power distribution, redundancy, switching systems, and interoperability between components are key. The "Catcher" infrastructure-based architecture in uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems is the configuration that best allows for increased availability levels without incurring the high infrastructure duplication costs typical of 2N schemes.
Types of Electrical Architecture in Data Centers
Given that the electrical design of a data center is intrinsically linked to the criticality level of the loads it houses and the classifications established by regulations such as those defined by the Uptime Institute (Tier I to IV), several typical schemes can be identified:
• N Architecture (Tier I): a single power path with no redundancy. Any failure results in a loss of service.
• N+1 Architecture (Tier II/III): includes redundant components to allow planned maintenance without service interruption.
• 2N Architecture (Tier IV): complete duplication of the entire power infrastructure, with fully independent paths, allowing for fault tolerance without loss of availability.
Although the 2N architecture is theoretically the most robust, it requires a very high investment in both CAPEX and OPEX. Therefore, many operators opt for intermediate configurations that, without completely duplicating resources, allow them to achieve an equivalent level of availability. The Catcher architecture is a clear example of this optimized approach.
Catcher Infrastructure in UPSs: Concept, Operation and Components
Specifically, the Catcher infrastructure is based on a dual architecture employing two independent power supply systems (path A and path B), where one acts as an active and synchronized backup for the other. Unlike a passive N+1 system, the Catcher path is operational, vigilant, and ready to assume the entire load in the event of a failure of the main path.
This type of architecture allows dual-input loads to be powered so that, in the event of an anomaly in the active path (A), the catcher path (B) automatically assumes the load without any perceptible interruption for the connected equipment. This behavior is achieved thanks to three fundamental pillars:
1. Synchronized UPSs with parallel operation capability without physical output coupling: Equipment such as Socomec's DELPHYS XM enables stable and efficient operation in critical configurations, offering energy efficiency exceeding 96% and a modular design that simplifies both expansion and maintenance.
2. High-speed static transfer systems: In these systems, devices like STATYS ensure switching between sources in milliseconds, without the risk of cross-transfer or voltage interruption, which is essential for guaranteeing service continuity for sensitive loads.
3. Appropriate electrical topology and guaranteed selectivity: The architecture must be designed to ensure selective distribution, capable of isolating faults and preventing the propagation of disturbances through parallel paths.
From a design perspective, loads should be connected via dual inputs (AB) or, failing that, via static rack transfers or intelligent PDUs that leverage the redundancy provided by both paths. It is equally crucial to implement continuous monitoring of the operational status of both paths, as well as a coordinated maintenance policy to prevent simultaneous failure scenarios.
Benefits of Catcher Infrastructure in UPSs
The result is evident, with the adoption of the Catcher architecture in data centers providing multiple benefits at both a technical and economic level:
• Effective redundancy without full duplication: Enables 2N-comparable availability levels without replicating the entire infrastructure.
• Optimized UPS utilization: Both systems are active, improving the UPS load factor and preventing the underutilization typical of standby systems.
• High energy efficiency: With UPSs like the DELPHYS XM, efficiencies exceeding 96% can be achieved even under partial load, significantly reducing energy consumption and associated costs.
• Reduced carbon footprint: By avoiding unnecessary oversizing and optimizing operational efficiency, the data center's environmental impact is reduced.
• Easier maintenance: Having both paths active and synchronized allows maintenance operations to be performed on one path without bypassing or compromising power to critical loads.
Additionally, thanks to the STATYS static transfer system, a smooth and safe transition between paths is guaranteed, minimizing the risk of electrical disturbances, protection tripping or loss of synchronism.
Response to the Challenges of the Sector
In short, the Catcher infrastructure represents a mature technical solution that effectively addresses the current challenges of data centers. From an operational continuity standpoint, it guarantees uninterrupted power in the event of failures, with extremely short response times. Regarding energy efficiency, it allows for a more balanced operation, reducing losses and optimizing system performance.
Faced with budgetary constraints that often prevent the adoption of full 2N architectures, the Catcher scheme offers a technically robust and economically viable alternative. The combination of high-performance UPSs like DELPHYS XM, along with intelligent transfer solutions like STATYS, enables the configuration of resilient, efficient electrical environments that adapt to the evolving needs of the sector.
