Researchers at the University of California, Riverside propose a method called Federated Carbon Intelligence, or FCI. The system connects information about the local electricity mix with real-time data on the health of individual servers.
In computer simulations, FCI reduced carbon emissions and helped servers run longer. The system watches temperature, age and physical wear so it does not overwork stressed machines. This can prevent breakdowns and reduce the need for energy- and water-intensive cooling.
The authors say the next step is to try FCI with cloud providers in real data centers. They note data centers already use more power than some countries.
Difficult words
- emission — gas or particle released into the airemissions
- simulation — a computer model that imitates real eventssimulations
- server — a computer that stores and runs servicesservers
- cooling — use of machines to make things less hot
- carbon — a chemical element linked to greenhouse gases
- real-time — data that is available immediately as events happen
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think reducing cooling needs is important? Why?
- Would you trust systems that watch server temperature and age? Why or why not?
- How could lower carbon emissions from data centers help the environment?
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