Gray space in a data center refers to the space that is specifically allocated for back-end infrastructure.
The gray space includes:
- Switchgear
- Uninterruptible power supply (UPS)
- Transformers
- Chillers
- Generators
The amount of gray space in a facility is heavily dependent on the area allocated for data center white space as the primary function of gray space is to support the white space. The more white space there is, the more back-end infrastructure is needed to support it. However, the primary goal is to maximize white space while minimizing gray space.
Increasing the efficiency of gray space infrastructure is important to reduce energy costs, increase data center sustainability, and allow for more white space.
Meet-Me Rooms
Within a gray space, there are meet-me rooms (MMR) which are managed spaces that allow cable companies, internet service providers (ISPs), telecommunications carriers, and other carriers to cross connect with data center tenants. MMRs house carrier equipment and do not require access to client assets, which reduces risk and improves security.
Inter-campus and intra-campus cross connections are also supported by MMRs as an application does not have to go outside of the data center to communicate with another application. If both applications are contained within the same data center, along with their servers and data, they can use the cross connect resource for intra-campus communication. Similarly, in inter-campus situations where there are multiple facilities on one campus, MMRs support private connections to move data over a short distance quickly and without switching or routing.
MMRs within gray spaces are increasingly important as they allow for uninterrupted internet exchange and ensure smooth data transmission. Some tasks that MMRs can help data center managers accomplish include:
- Lower costs from avoiding local loop charges
- Faster expansion by providing more fiber connection options for tenants
- Lower latency and faster performance by reducing the number of network hops