While the edge computing is getting more and more attention from industry, Ashrae is also diving into this topic with a application guide <Edge Computing: Considerations for Reliable Operation>, which applies to below edge data centers per Ashrae suggestion:

• Modular data centers fabricated from steel shipping containers
• Prefabricated edge pods
• Small stand-alone brick-and-mortar data centers
• Phone-booth-sized enclosures that hold a single rack
• Very small enclosures that hold only one or two servers

These outdoor or semi-controlled environments mean that opening the data center’s outer door can dramatically impact temperature, humidity, or air quality. In this guidebook, it outlines the challenges for edge computing in the un-controlled environment, further more, the recommended measures for the successful edge application are also outlined, and key points are the following:

1. Check IT equipment specifications (each piece)
• Design enclosure to support the narrowest of those specification ranges.
• Design means to maintain specifications when opening enclosure door (i.e., tent).

2. Select cooling system to meet capex, opex, and sustainability targets for site and data center fleet (where applicable)
• Consider uninterruptable cooling for remote/unstaffed sites.

3. Design-in enough redundancy and remote servicing capability to support your service staffing strategy whether that is on-site or remote

4. Maintain ASHRAE monthly angstrom corrosion limits
• Silver = 200 • Copper = 300 (may require chemical filtration)

5. Integrate DCIM-based remote monitoring of
• Environmental parameters (i.e., temperature, humidity, corrosion) and
• Alerts and service alarms (i.e., for air filter performance).

6. During service, monitor IT equipment inlet air (both temperature and
humidity)
• Stay within the rate of change limits and above the dew point.

Download the guideline here and check more from Ashrae website.