Garmin partnered with CFT to create a high-performance lab environment capable of supporting diverse rack densities while ensuring reliable power and efficient cooling. The new data center design provides 2N redundancy, scalable UPS capacity, and advanced in-row cooling with hot aisle containment—giving Garmin the flexibility to expand confidently while eliminating hot spots and overcooling concerns.
Garmin sought a lab environment that could support a wide range of rack densities within the same room while eliminating the risks of hot spots and overcooling. In addition, they needed a 2N power redundancy design with scalable UPS capacity to support future growth.
CFT designed and delivered a flexible infrastructure solution centered on reliability, scalability, and efficiency. Two Symmetra PX UPS systems were deployed to provide A-B power distribution in a 2N architecture. Each UPS is internally expandable, with Day 1 capacity at 50kW N+1 and the ability to scale to 90kW N+1 by adding 10kW power modules.
For cooling, the design incorporated N+1 fault-tolerant systems capable of balancing runtime by operating in a grouped configuration. In-row cooling technology paired with hot aisle containment ensures efficient and precise temperature control. This close-coupled approach eliminates hot spots and overcooling while reducing fan horsepower, increasing supply air temperature, and maximizing return air temperatures to the cooling units.
Two PX100 UPS systems with external battery cabinets and PDU with transformer
Six racks
Four air-cooled, in-row cooling units
Hot aisle containment system
Environmental monitoring
Services Provided
Project Design, Installation, Management, Delivery, Coordination, and Expansion
Project Design, Installation, Management, Delivery, Coordination, and Expansion
CFT collaborated with Electronic Supply of Kansas City, whose guidance was instrumental in aligning the solution with Garmin’s operational goals and preferences.
The completed project provides Garmin with a reliable, highly adaptable data center environment that meets immediate needs while offering seamless pathways for future expansion. The combination of scalable power and precise, efficient cooling ensures maximum uptime, reduced energy waste, and the flexibility to handle diverse workloads.
With the completion of Building 1, Garmin now has a data center environment that combines reliability, efficiency, and scalability. The 2N power architecture and fault-tolerant cooling systems not only solve today’s challenges but also provide a strong foundation for future growth. By aligning advanced infrastructure with Garmin’s commitment to innovation, CFT delivered a solution that ensures continuous performance and operational confidence for years to come.