Maryland Advanced Research Computing Center

The John Hopkins University (JHU) administration saw a demand for high-performance computing to accommodate the large number of disciplines on campus and turned the task over to CRTKL. To be updated for today and the future, JHU felt the modular approach for the construction of a new data center offered the needed flexibility.

The CRTKL team worked on the Advanced Research Computing Center (MARCC) and created a layout consisting of 2 MW modular data center, with pad-ready infrastructure connections to hold up to 7MW of critical IT load. A dedicated IT module, electrical and mechanical plant is provided for each build consisting of 1 MW increments. The IT modules can hold 48 cabinets, and local cabinets can use up to 30 kW. Want these details?

The design team assisted in the development of the RFP for the IT modules, reviewed vendor proposals, designed site mechanical and electrical infrastructure, coordinated with the site civil/ stormwater design and overall owner representation. Open channels of communication between the design team and IT vendors was required to ensure the infrastructure met the requirements of the equipment, while also maintaining flexibility for future needs.