Conventional methods for specifying data center density are ambiguous and misleading. Describing data center density using Watts / ft2 or Watts / m2 is not sufficient to determine power or cooling compatibility with high density computing loads like blade servers.

Historically, there is no clear standard to specifying data centers to achieve predictable behavior with high density loads. An appropriate specification for data center density should assure compatibility with anticipated high density loads, provide unambiguous instruction for design and installation of power and cooling equipment, prevent over-sizing and maximize electrical efficiency. This paper describes the science and practical application of an improved method for the specification of power and cooling infrastructure for data centers.