A data centre is only as strong as the power system behind it. To prevent failures, experts follow a strict Testing & Commissioning (T&C) checklist before handing over the facility.
This checklist helps data centre owners, project managers, and contractors ensure everything is 100% ready.
Here are the 10 most important checklists every data centre must follow.
1. Cable Testing & Verification
- Proper routing
- Correct termination
- Insulation resistance
- Phase sequence
- Cable identification tags
Faulty cable installation is one of the top causes of electrical failure.
2. Earthing & Bonding Checks
- Earth pit resistance
- Main earth grid verification
- Bonding of all metallic equipment
Proper grounding protects against short circuits & lightning.
3. UPS Testing Checklist
- Battery health
- Load test (25%, 50%, 75%, 100%)
- Bypass mode test
- Failover switching time
A UPS must respond immediately during outages.
4. Generator Testing
- Auto-start function
- Fuel system check
- Synchronization test
- Load acceptance test
Generators must take over seamlessly during blackouts.
5. Switchgear Testing
- Breaker trip settings
- Interlocking
- Control wiring verification
- Thermal scanning
Ensures safe distribution of power.
6. Power Distribution Units (PDU) Testing
- Volt & amp readings
- Load balancing
- EMI/RFI inspection
Prevents overload issues in rack-level distribution.
7. Fire Alarm System Integration
- Shutdown response
- Emergency power cut
- Smoke detection
Power systems must sync with fire systems.
8. Cooling System Integration Test
- Chillers restart on backup
- Precision AC failover
- Temperature stability under full load
Prevents overheating during outages.
9. SCADA/BMS Monitoring Tests
- Alarm accuracy
- Remote monitoring
- Energy tracking
- Real-time status updates
BMS helps detect risks before failure.
10. Final Integrated System Testing (IST)
Replicates real-life failures:
- Power outage
- Switchgear failure
- UPS overload
- Generator dropout
Only when everything passes IST, the data centre becomes operational.
Conclusion
Testing & commissioning ensures every wire, switch, and backup system is operating perfectly. Following these 10 checklists helps prevent downtime and ensures long-term safety.
