DC Data Center Modular modular data center infrastructure · Ashburn, VA

Modular Data Center Infrastructure

Control and SCADA Buildings

Data Center Modular provides purpose-built, modular Control and SCADA Buildings designed for the demanding operational technology (OT) requirements of modern data centers. These pre-engineered and factory-integrated solutions ensure a secure, climate-controlled environment for supervisory control, data acquisition, and mission-critical monitoring systems, accelerating deployment and enhancing reliability.

  • Modular Buildings
  • Power Modules
  • Cooling Modules

Modular Control and SCADA Buildings from Data Center Modular offer a highly efficient and reliable solution for housing the sophisticated operational technology essential to data center management. These structures are specifically engineered to provide a controlled environment for sensitive equipment, including PLCs, RTUs, HMI workstations, network switches, and associated power distribution units. By leveraging a modular approach, we deliver pre-fabricated units that significantly reduce on-site construction time and mitigate the risks associated with traditional build methods. Our designs prioritize structural integrity, thermal performance, and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) to ensure optimal operating conditions for critical control systems, even in challenging external environments. Each module is designed for seamless integration with existing data center infrastructure, providing dedicated spaces for control functions without impacting the primary data hall footprint.

Our modular solutions are highly configurable to meet diverse project requirements. Typical configurations include dedicated operator control rooms, equipment shelters for remote terminal units (RTUs) and programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and integrated power and communication hubs. These buildings can be equipped with advanced HVAC systems for precise temperature and humidity control, redundant power supplies, fire suppression, and comprehensive security features such as access control and surveillance. Structural considerations often involve specialized foundations for vibration isolation, particularly when housing sensitive instrumentation. The internal layout is optimized for equipment rack density, cable management, and technician access, ensuring ease of maintenance and future scalability. We focus on delivering a complete, ready-to-deploy solution that minimizes on-site work and accelerates project timelines.

Integration considerations are paramount for Control and SCADA Buildings within a broader data center ecosystem. Our modular units are designed with standardized interfaces for power, network connectivity, and environmental monitoring systems, facilitating straightforward connection to the main data center building management system (BMS) and enterprise networks. We collaborate closely with client engineering teams to ensure compatibility with specific SCADA platforms, communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, DNP3, OPC UA), and cybersecurity requirements. The pre-integration of equipment in a factory-controlled environment allows for extensive testing and commissioning prior to shipment, reducing field integration challenges and ensuring operational readiness upon delivery. This approach mitigates many common risks associated with complex OT deployments, providing a predictable and reliable outcome for critical infrastructure projects.

Technician insight

In Ashburn, the thing that catches most people out with Control and SCADA Buildings is the soil composition. We see a lot of areas with high clay content, especially closer to the Goose Creek floodplain, which means you can't just drop a heavy modular unit without proper geotechnical assessment and potentially engineered foundations. It's not a 'one-size-fits-all' for site prep here.

Control and SCADA Buildings Services We Offer

Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) Shelters

Purpose-built modular shelters designed to house RTUs and associated communication equipment, providing a secure, climate-controlled environment for remote data acquisition and control in distributed data center networks.

Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Enclosures

Factory-integrated modular buildings optimized for housing PLCs and industrial control systems, ensuring precise environmental conditions and robust physical security for automated data center processes.

Operator Control Rooms

Dedicated modular spaces providing ergonomic and acoustically treated environments for data center operators, complete with integrated HMI workstations, display walls, and essential communication infrastructure.

Integrated Power & Communications Hubs

Modular units consolidating critical power distribution and network communication infrastructure for SCADA systems, streamlining connectivity and enhancing resilience across data center campuses.

Environmental Monitoring Stations

Compact modular buildings designed to house sensors and data logging equipment for environmental parameters (temperature, humidity, air quality) critical for data center operational integrity.

Cyber-Physical Security Pods

Hardened modular structures providing enhanced physical and logical security for critical SCADA components, incorporating advanced access control, surveillance, and threat detection systems.

How it works

  1. 1

    1. Requirements Definition & Design

    We begin with a detailed consultation to understand your specific operational technology requirements, environmental conditions, and integration needs. Our engineering team then develops a preliminary design, including architectural layouts, structural considerations, electrical schematics, and HVAC specifications, aligning with your project's performance objectives.

  2. 2

    2. Engineering & Fabrication Planning

    Upon design approval, detailed engineering drawings are finalized. This phase includes material selection, component sourcing, and the development of a comprehensive fabrication plan. We leverage advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure precision and quality throughout the build process.

  3. 3

    3. Factory Integration & Assembly

    The modular building structure is assembled in our controlled factory environment. Concurrently, all specified operational technology equipment, power distribution, cooling systems, and fire suppression are integrated and wired. This parallel process significantly accelerates project timelines compared to traditional construction.

  4. 4

    4. Quality Assurance & Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT)

    Each modular unit undergoes rigorous quality assurance checks and comprehensive Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT). This includes functional testing of all integrated systems, environmental controls, and safety features to verify compliance with design specifications and operational requirements before shipment.

  5. 5

    5. Logistics & Delivery Coordination

    Once FAT is successfully completed, the module is prepared for transport. We coordinate all logistics, including specialized transport requirements, ensuring safe and timely delivery to your designated project site. Detailed documentation for unloading and placement is provided.

Pricing

Pricing for Control and SCADA Buildings is influenced by several key factors. These include the overall dimensions and structural design requirements, the complexity and quantity of integrated operational technology equipment, and the specifications for electrical and cooling infrastructure. The choice of interior finishes, security features, and specialized environmental controls also impacts cost. Project scale, including the number of modules required, and the final destination which dictates logistics and transportation costs, are significant considerations. Finally, accelerated project schedules or unique site access challenges can influence the overall investment.

Data Center Modular — modular data center infrastructure in Ashburn

Good to know

Control and SCADA Buildings — FAQs

Still have questions? We're happy to talk it through.

+ What is a modular Control and SCADA Building?
A modular Control and SCADA Building is a pre-engineered, factory-built structure designed to house critical operational technology (OT) equipment, such as PLCs, RTUs, and HMI workstations, along with their associated power and environmental controls. These units are assembled and integrated off-site, then transported to the data center location for rapid deployment.
+ How does modular construction benefit data center SCADA deployments?
Modular construction offers significant advantages by reducing on-site construction time, improving quality control through factory integration and testing, and providing a predictable project schedule. It minimizes disruption to active data center operations and allows for faster scalability and deployment of critical control infrastructure.
+ Can these buildings be customized for specific equipment and environmental needs?
Yes, our modular Control and SCADA Buildings are highly customizable. We work with your engineering teams to integrate specific equipment, design for precise temperature and humidity control, incorporate redundant power systems, and meet unique structural or security requirements to align with your project's operational demands.
+ What kind of site preparation is required for a modular SCADA building?
While the modular building itself is pre-fabricated, site preparation typically involves preparing a level, stable foundation (e.g., concrete slab or pier system), ensuring utility connections (power, data), and providing clear access for delivery and placement of the module. Specific requirements will depend on the site's geotechnical conditions and the building's design.
+ What is Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and why is it important?
Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) is a comprehensive series of tests performed on the fully integrated modular unit at our manufacturing facility before shipment. It verifies that all systems—electrical, mechanical, HVAC, fire suppression, and integrated OT equipment—function correctly and meet design specifications, ensuring operational readiness upon delivery.

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