New release of data center design and analysis software enables data centers to be designed and operated at higher levels of energy efficiency while reducing risk to IT assets.

Future Facilities Limited, a provider of design, optimization and management software, today announced the release of version 4 of its 6SigmaDC software. The company says that the new release 4 features increased functionality and ease-of-use for all products in the 6SigmaDC family including; 6SigmaRoom, 6SigmaRack, 6SigmaManager and 6SigmaViewer.

The company articulates that 6SigmaDC release 4 is the next step in establishing the concept of the Virtual Facility as the vehicle for design as well as the day-to-day operation of the modern Mission Critical Facility. The Virtual Facility concept uses 3-D mathematical modeling for scientific validation of design assumptions as well as the assessment of the thermal and environmental impacts as data center equipment is upgraded and refreshed. As such, it provides a true cradle-to-grave methodology to optimize engineering decisions as well as to help with load capacity planning throughout the facility lifecycle.

Says Hassan Moezzi, CEO, Future Facilities Limited, "release 4 of 6SigmaDC represents major all around enhancements. Our unique status in providing leading-edge consultancy services has enabled us to address the real-world problems faced by the data center community in our development efforts. With energy costs escalating and greater public awareness of the impact of IT both upon the environment and availability of power, we anticipate that this new release will be of particular interest to companies who are concerned with reducing data center carbon footprint and producing better PUE or DCiE ratings."

"Without doubt, power and cooling remain the biggest challenge to those responsible for managing data centers. Effective cooling design not only ensures that all IT equipment is operated within the manufacturers' specifications, it also offers the best opportunity to increase overall facility efficiency. 6SigmaDC release 4 enables more in-depth analysis of design and layout options, helping to eliminate risk to IT equipment through powerful 3D modeling of the physical environment as well as critical power and cooling distribution," adds Moezzi.