Revolutionary Cat® Generator Sets for the World's Tallest Data Center

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. History of the Building
3. Building Design for Data Center Usage
4. Server Space and Equipment
5. Security Measures
6. Generator Installation
7. Reliability of Caterpillar Generators
8. Service Challenges in New York City
9. Handling Superstorm Sandy
10. The Importance of Reliable Generators

Introduction

In the heart of New York City, just a stone's throw away from where Thomas Edison first switched on electrical power, sits a building that can be considered a colossal computer. Known as InterGate Manhattan, this towering structure is the world's tallest data center. Originally designed as an analog relic, this building found its purpose in the digital age. Today, it houses countless servers humming with activity and serves as a vital hub for various organizations, ranging from financial institutions to internet giants. In this article, we will dive into the intricacies of InterGate Manhattan, exploring its history, design, security measures, and the crucial role of Caterpillar generators in keeping this data center operational at all times.

History of the Building

Before InterGate Manhattan became the imposing data center it is today, it was once the switching control center for the local telephone company. However, in 2011, Savvy Data Center Properties acquired the building, recognizing its immense potential in the digital era. Through careful renovation and adaptation, the building was transformed into an ideal data center, perfectly suited for the requirements of the modern age.

Building Design for Data Center Usage

InterGate Manhattan's design showcases a thoughtful approach to meet the specific needs of a data center. The floors are meticulously engineered to support servers and other critical equipment. Katz E175 generators actively power the server spaces, ensuring a seamless flow of electricity. The building's initial design, even as an analog relic, inadvertently laid the groundwork for an efficient and secure data center.

Server Space and Equipment

Within InterGate Manhattan, turnkey floors are dedicated to colocation data center setups. These floors house cabinets that accommodate servers and equipment for various tenants, such as financial institutions, banks, and internet sites. Each server plays a crucial role, storing data or hosting online environments that require a secure and reliable infrastructure. With the headquarters of the New York City Police Department, located nearby, the building's secure perimeter provides peace of mind to tenants and clients.

Security Measures

InterGate Manhattan prioritizes the security of its data center and its tenants' precious information. Access to the building requires passing through police roadblocks due to its proximity to One Police Plaza. It effectively creates a secure environment where only authorized personnel can enter. The stringent security measures ensure that confidential data remains protected from any potential threats.

Generator Installation

To ensure uninterrupted power supply, Caterpillar generators were chosen as the emergency generators of choice for InterGate Manhattan. The building currently houses four generators, with the capacity to accommodate up to 24 generators if needed. The process of installing these generators was no small feat. Due to the building's design, the generators had to be brought in through a system of cranes and carefully rigged into their designated locations on the fourth floor.

Reliability of Caterpillar Generators

Caterpillar's reputation for reliability influenced the decision to utilize their generators in InterGate Manhattan. For almost 20 years, Caterpillar has been the preferred choice, with no alternative generator systems installed in any of the facilities. The unyielding reliability of Caterpillar generators provides valuable reassurance that InterGate Manhattan can weather any power outage and seamlessly restore operations within the expected timeframe.

Service Challenges in New York City

Servicing generators in New York City poses its share of challenges. In other buildings across the city, even routine maintenance tasks like an oil change can be a daunting undertaking. Often, generators are located on higher floors, requiring physically demanding efforts to transport equipment and materials. However, within InterGate Manhattan, the layout is service-friendly, allowing for smoother maintenance procedures.

Handling Superstorm Sandy

Superstorm Sandy served as a test of InterGate Manhattan's preparedness and robustness. While the building itself remained unaffected, its surroundings were severely impacted. Mark Franz, a veteran technician with the local Caterpillar dealer H.O. Penn, recalls the challenges posed by Superstorm Sandy. The storm surge caused flooding in the area, making it necessary to move service trucks to safe locations and wade through waist-deep water to access the building. Despite the obstacles, InterGate Manhattan's generators played a crucial role in maintaining operations during the storm's aftermath.

The Importance of Reliable Generators

The Director of Operations at InterGate Manhattan emphasizes the significance of reliable generators in their daily operations. Having witnessed major events over the years, including blackouts and severe weather conditions, the reliance on Caterpillar generators continues to be unwavering. Aware of Caterpillar's unwavering support, the building's management team places their trust in the reliability and quick responsiveness of Caterpillar's maintenance group. With the assurance of Caterpillar's generators, InterGate Manhattan can tackle any challenge, ensuring seamless continuity of operations for its tenants and clients.

Highlights

• InterGate Manhattan in New York City is the tallest data center in the world, previously used as a telephone switching center.
• The building's design, although originally analog, is perfectly suited for data center usage.
• Security measures, including police roadblocks, ensure a secure environment for tenants and clients.
• Caterpillar generators provide reliable power supply and quick restoration during outages.
• Service-friendly layout within InterGate Manhattan facilitates maintenance procedures.
• InterGate Manhattan's resilience was tested and proven during Superstorm Sandy.
• The unwavering reliability of Caterpillar generators is essential in ensuring continuous operations.
• InterGate Manhattan serves as a crucial hub for various institutions and internet giants.
• The future of InterGate Manhattan will continue to rely on Caterpillar generators for its power needs.
• The importance of reliable generators cannot be overstated in maintaining uptime and protecting critical data.