Edge Data Center Space Planner

Size micro or edge data centers by combining rack footprints, aisle spacing, and power headroom. Quickly estimate how much white space you need before signing leases or ordering prefabricated enclosures.

Total number of IT racks you plan to deploy initially
Standard 600 mm racks are common; adjust for wider network gear
Depth including doors; 42U racks often range from 1.0–1.2 m
Extra width for swing doors, cable trays, or maintenance access
Space between rack rows for exhaust air; containment designs may vary
Distance needed behind racks for cable bends and cooling units
IT load supported per rack at design day (kW/rack)
Total IT load you need the space to support, including growth

Examples

  • Regional POP: 12 racks, 0.60 m wide, 1.10 m deep, 0.40 m service, 1.0 m hot aisle, 0.80 m clearance, 6 kW/rack, 80 kW target ⇒ 121.44 m²
  • IoT aggregation hub: 6 racks, 0.70 m wide, 1.20 m deep, 0.30 m service, 0.9 m hot aisle, 0.70 m clearance, 8 kW/rack, 48 kW target ⇒ 55.73 m²

FAQ

Does this include UPS or cooling plant rooms?

No, allocate separate space for UPS, batteries, and chillers; this model focuses on white space.

How can I account for future racks?

Increase the target capacity to reflect your expansion roadmap; the scale factor will add proportional space.

What if I use cold aisle containment?

Adjust the hot aisle width and cooling clearance to match your chosen containment strategy.

Do I need to factor in raised floor plenum space?

If you use raised floors for cooling, add the plenum area separately or increase the walkway factor to cover supply air paths.

Additional Information

  • Walkway factor adds 10% reserve for access corridors, structured cabling, and support gear.
  • If target capacity exceeds rack power density, the area scales linearly to account for additional rows.
  • Check the Data Center PUE calculator to translate floor space into energy efficiency planning.
  • Pair with the Room Cooling BTU calculator to ensure HVAC capacity matches the modeled IT load.

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