Data Center Essentials: Power & Electrical Course Syllabus
Full curriculum breakdown — modules, lessons, estimated time, and outcomes.
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to data center power and electrical systems, designed for IT and facilities professionals seeking to build foundational expertise. Over approximately 6 hours of structured learning, you'll progress through technical modules covering core components, design principles, and operational best practices. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications, including system sizing, redundancy planning, and safety protocols, ensuring you can confidently manage mission-critical power infrastructure.
Module 1: Introduction to Data Center Power
Estimated time: 0.5 hours
- Overview of data center tiers and uptime classifications
- Understanding service level agreements (SLAs) and availability targets
- Role of reliable power in data center operations
- Key terminology: UPS, PDU, ATS, and switchgear
Module 2: Electrical Fundamentals
Estimated time: 0.75 hours
- Single-phase vs. three-phase electrical systems
- Voltage, current, and power factor concepts
- Real, reactive, and apparent power (kW, kVAR, kVA)
- Power triangle and implications for efficiency
Module 3: UPS Systems & Battery Backups
Estimated time: 1 hour
- Types of UPS: offline, line-interactive, double-conversion
- Comparison of battery technologies (VRLA, lithium-ion)
- UPS sizing and runtime calculations
- Maintenance and testing best practices
Module 4: Power Distribution & Redundancy
Estimated time: 1 hour
- Data center power chain architecture
- Components: utility feed, transformers, switchgear, PDUs
- Redundancy topologies: N, N+1, 2N configurations
- Concurrent maintainability and fault tolerance
Module 5: Generators & Transfer Switches
Estimated time: 0.75 hours
- Diesel generator selection and sizing criteria
- Fuel storage and management considerations
- Automatic transfer switch (ATS) operation and sequencing
- Testing and maintenance of generator systems
Module 6: Grounding, Bonding & Safety
Estimated time: 0.75 hours
- Grounding systems: TN-S, TT, and IT configurations
- Bonding requirements for electrical safety
- Arc flash hazards and risk assessment
- Lockout/tagout (LOTO) and PPE protocols
Module 7: Monitoring & Control Systems
Estimated time: 0.5 hours
- Introduction to DCIM and SCADA systems
- Using power meters for real-time monitoring
- Trending data for preventive maintenance
- Alarm management and response procedures
Module 8: Troubleshooting & Best Practices
Estimated time: 0.5 hours
- Common failure modes in power systems
- Fault finding and root-cause analysis techniques
- Energy efficiency: PUE optimization strategies
- Load balancing and capacity planning
Prerequisites
- Familiarity with basic electrical concepts (voltage, current, resistance)
- Basic understanding of data center operations
- No prior engineering degree required
What You'll Be Able to Do After
- Interpret single- and three-phase power distribution systems
- Design and size power chains for redundancy and efficiency
- Implement grounding, bonding, and electrical safety protocols
- Monitor and troubleshoot power systems using industry tools
- Apply best practices for UPS, generator, and PDU management