Air Velocity Sensor

AKCP Air Velocity Transmitter AVT00 – Professional Airflow Measurement for Data Centers

Reliable Airflow Monitoring for Critical IT Infrastructures

The AKCP Air Velocity Transmitter AVT00 is a highly accurate airflow sensor specifically developed for monitoring airflows in data centers and server racks. In modern data centers, where efficient climate control and optimal air circulation are crucial for operational safety, this airflow sensor provides a reliable solution for continuous air velocity monitoring.

Innovative Technology for Precise Airflow Measurement

The Air Velocity Transmitter utilizes a thermal flow chip as its sensor type, enabling exceptionally precise measurement of air velocity. This technology ensures continuous data acquisition with a measurement rate of one reading per second and data logging once per minute. The high-quality stainless steel probe, measuring 224 mm in length, is specially designed for installation in air ducts and offers long-term reliability even under demanding operating conditions.

Easy Installation and Automatic Detection

Once you have mounted the AKCP Air Velocity Sensor in the server rack, simply connect it to the SNMP-compatible AKCP sensorProbe via Cat5/6/7 network cable. The innovative AKCP securityProbe monitoring systems can also be equipped with the sensor. With support for the Auto Sense function of the AKCP Alarm Server, the Air Velocity Sensor is automatically displayed in the web interface of the sensorProbe or securityProbe.

Installing the airflow sensor is extremely simple: The included duct mounting bracket enables secure attachment in air ducts, while the fire-resistant PC enclosure (80mm x 80mm x 38mm, 147g) ensures durability and safety. The sensor operates reliably in a temperature range of 0°C to 50°C and requires a power supply of 24 VDC ±10% with a typical current consumption of 150mA.

Flexible Configuration and Intelligent Alarm Management

Here, you can assign individually selectable threshold and warning values to the sensor. At the same time, you can define how you and your colleagues are to be notified if the air velocity required for cooling heat-sensitive servers is under- or exceeded. The Alarm Servers in the sensorProbe device series offer notification functions via email, SMS (via 3rd party gateway), and SNMP trap to network management systems such as Nagios or WhatsUp Gold.

Advanced Features with securityProbe Systems

The SNMP v1, v2, and v3 compatible securityProbe5E offers additional alarm types such as custom scripts for automatic server shutdown or even for emergency phone calls (GSM modem bundle required). In addition to the optional scalability up to 500 sensors, the securityProbe Alarm Servers provide further useful features such as an alarm card function, where, for example, deviations in air velocity reported by the Air Velocity Sensor can be displayed as blinking on the card. This allows you to locate the affected server rack even faster and take timely countermeasures.

Practical Application in the Data Center

A practical example illustrates the benefit of the AKCP Air Velocity Transmitter: In a data center with ventilated server cabinets, the sensors are installed with special mounting brackets in the return air ducts of each cabinet. This enables measurement of the relative air movement through each cabinet and issues warnings if the airflow through a cabinet is not proportional to its thermal load. This ensures that only the specific amount of air required to cool the equipment in that server rack is directed through the cabinet.

Energy Efficiency and PUE Optimization

In modern energy-efficient facilities, where energy consumption is carefully monitored and target PUE values must be strictly adhered to, the AKCP Air Velocity Transmitter in combination with the sensorProbe8 base unit offers the perfect solution. By precisely maintaining an appropriate airflow through each cabinet, the system contributes to the energy optimization of the data center.

Comprehensive Data Analysis and Trend Evaluation

The measurement data captured by the AKCP Air Velocity Sensor can already be evaluated directly in the web interface of the AKCP sensorProbe or AKCP securityProbe Alarm Server. Here, the air volume of the past hours, days, weeks, or months can be graphically displayed. The information obtained from the trend analysis of air velocity can also be used for energy optimization of the data center or IT room.

The system provides both on/off displays and percentage threshold alarm signals for airflow. The graphical display of airflow data over time enables administrators to recognize trends and take proactive measures before critical situations arise.

Scalable Solution for Growing Requirements

The AKCP Air Velocity Transmitter offers a cost-effective and scalable solution. Up to 2 airflow sensors can be connected per sensorProbe2, 8 per sensorProbe8, and multiple per securityProbe. The Air Velocity Transmitter can be extended to the desired cable length with AKCP CAT5 extension cables, or you can use your own cable with a length of up to 60 feet.

Technical Specifications and Reliability

The robust technical features of the AVT00 make it the ideal choice for demanding environments. The fire-resistant PC enclosure, stainless steel probe, and extended operating temperature range ensure a long service life and reliable operation. SNMP compatibility enables seamless integration into existing network management systems.

Key Features of the AKCP Air Velocity Sensor

• Compatible with current Alarm Servers in the sensorProbe and securityProbe model series
• Notification in case of under- or overrun or absence of airflow via sensorProbe or securityProbe
• Integrated graphical display of measured air velocity for trend analysis
• Auto-detection of the Air Velocity Sensor by sensorProbe or securityProbe Alarm Server
• Optional execution of automatic actions such as switching relay contacts or sensor-controlled relays via sensorProbe or securityProbe
• Audiovisual alarm in case of airflow disturbance by optional connection of an alarm siren with built-in strobe light to sensorProbe/securityProbe
• SNMP OID for polling/remote query of air velocity via SNMP command over network or web
• SNMP traps: Air velocity normal or alarm state, airflow in percent

The AKCP Air Velocity Transmitter AVT00 represents a professional and reliable solution for airflow monitoring in critical IT environments. Its combination of precise measurement technology, easy installation, flexible configuration, and comprehensive analysis options make it an indispensable tool for data centers striving for maximum availability and energy efficiency.