Editing Colocation centre (section)

==Power==
Colocation facilities generally have [[Electrical generator|generators]] that start automatically when utility power fails, usually running on [[diesel fuel]]. These generators may have varying levels of redundancy, depending on how the facility is built. Generators do not start instantaneously, so colocation facilities usually have battery backup systems. In many facilities, the operator of the facility provides large inverters to provide AC power from the batteries. In other cases, customers may install smaller [[Uninterruptible power supply|UPSes]] in their racks.

Some customers choose to use equipment that is powered directly by 48&nbsp;VDC (nominal) battery banks. This may provide better energy efficiency, and may reduce the number of parts that can fail, though the reduced voltage greatly increases necessary current, and thus the size (and cost) of power delivery wiring. An alternative to batteries is a [[motor–generator]] connected to a [[flywheel]] and diesel engine.

Many colocation facilities can provide redundant, A and B power feeds to customer equipment, and high end servers and telecommunications equipment often can have two power supplies installed.

Colocation facilities are sometimes connected to multiple sections of the utility power grid for additional reliability.