Power distribution
- Power Distribution for MediaWiki Servers
This article details the crucial aspects of power distribution for servers running MediaWiki 1.40. Proper power planning and implementation are vital for maintaining server uptime, preventing data loss, and ensuring the stability of your wiki. This guide is intended for newcomers to server administration and aims to provide a clear understanding of the components and configurations involved.
Understanding Power Requirements
MediaWiki servers, like all computer systems, require a stable and reliable power supply. The total power consumption depends on several factors, including the number of servers, the CPU type, RAM capacity, the number of hard drives (or SSDs), network cards, and overall server load. Underestimating these requirements can lead to system crashes, data corruption, and hardware failure.
Calculating Power Consumption
Before designing your power distribution system, you must accurately estimate the total power draw. Here’s a breakdown of typical components and their power usage:
| Component | Typical Power Consumption (Watts) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CPU (Server-Grade) | 65 - 200 | Varies significantly based on model and load. |
| RAM (per DIMM) | 5 - 15 | Dependent on type (DDR4, DDR5) and speed. |
| Hard Drive (HDD) | 5 - 20 | Higher RPM drives consume more power. |
| Solid State Drive (SSD) | 2 - 10 | Generally more efficient than HDDs. |
| Network Card (Gigabit Ethernet) | 3 - 8 | Higher bandwidth cards may consume more. |
| Motherboard | 20 - 50 | Depends on features and chipset. |
| Power Supply (PSU) | Losses vary | Account for PSU efficiency (80+, Platinum, Titanium). |
Remember to add a safety margin of 20-30% to your calculated total to account for peak loads and future expansion.
Power Distribution Units (PDUs)
Power Distribution Units (PDUs) are essential for distributing power to multiple servers within a server rack. They offer features beyond a simple power strip, such as remote monitoring, switching capabilities, and surge protection.
Types of PDUs
| PDU Type | Features | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Basic PDU | Simple power distribution, surge protection. | Low |
| Metered PDU | Measures total power consumption. | Medium |
| Monitored PDU | Measures power consumption per outlet, environmental sensors (temperature, humidity). | High |
| Switched PDU | Remote outlet switching, power cycling. | Very High |
For a MediaWiki server environment, a monitored or switched PDU is highly recommended for proactive management and troubleshooting. Consider using PDUs with IEC C13 and IEC C19 connectors for compatibility with standard server power supplies.
Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)
A Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) provides backup power in the event of a power outage. This is critical for maintaining wiki availability and preventing data loss.
UPS Considerations
- Capacity: The UPS must have sufficient capacity to power all connected servers for a reasonable period, allowing for graceful shutdown or continued operation. This is measured in Volt-Amps (VA) or Watts (W).
- Runtime: Determine the desired runtime. Longer runtime requires larger (and more expensive) UPS units.
- Topology: Common topologies include:
* Offline/Standby: Lowest cost, switches to battery power upon outage. Slight delay. * Line-Interactive: Regulates voltage fluctuations and switches to battery power. * Double-Conversion Online: Provides constant power from the battery, no switching delay. Highest cost and efficiency.
- Communication: Ensure the UPS can communicate with the servers via SNMP or a similar protocol for automated shutdown procedures. Consider using Network UPS Tools (NUT) for this purpose.
Here's a table showing some typical UPS specifications:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2000 VA / 1800 W |
| Voltage | 120V / 230V (Configurable) |
| Runtime (Full Load) | 5-10 minutes |
| Topology | Line-Interactive |
| Communication | USB, Serial, SNMP |
Redundancy and Best Practices
- Redundant Power Supplies: Servers should be equipped with redundant power supplies. If one fails, the other continues to provide power.
- Dual Power Feeds: Connect PDUs to separate power circuits or even separate utility providers for increased redundancy.
- Proper Grounding: Ensure all equipment is properly grounded to prevent electrical hazards and improve system stability. Refer to local electrical codes.
- Regular Testing: Regularly test the UPS to ensure it is functioning correctly.
- Cable Management: Organize power cables neatly to improve airflow and prevent accidental disconnections. Use cable ties and cable management panels.
- Monitoring: Implement power monitoring solutions to track power usage and identify potential issues. Consider integrating with your system monitoring tools.
Further Resources
- Server Room Cooling
- Server Hardware
- Disaster Recovery Plan
- MediaWiki Performance Tuning
- Network Security
- Server Administration
Intel-Based Server Configurations
| Configuration | Specifications | Benchmark |
|---|---|---|
| Core i7-6700K/7700 Server | 64 GB DDR4, NVMe SSD 2 x 512 GB | CPU Benchmark: 8046 |
| Core i7-8700 Server | 64 GB DDR4, NVMe SSD 2x1 TB | CPU Benchmark: 13124 |
| Core i9-9900K Server | 128 GB DDR4, NVMe SSD 2 x 1 TB | CPU Benchmark: 49969 |
| Core i9-13900 Server (64GB) | 64 GB RAM, 2x2 TB NVMe SSD | |
| Core i9-13900 Server (128GB) | 128 GB RAM, 2x2 TB NVMe SSD | |
| Core i5-13500 Server (64GB) | 64 GB RAM, 2x500 GB NVMe SSD | |
| Core i5-13500 Server (128GB) | 128 GB RAM, 2x500 GB NVMe SSD | |
| Core i5-13500 Workstation | 64 GB DDR5 RAM, 2 NVMe SSD, NVIDIA RTX 4000 |
AMD-Based Server Configurations
| Configuration | Specifications | Benchmark |
|---|---|---|
| Ryzen 5 3600 Server | 64 GB RAM, 2x480 GB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 17849 |
| Ryzen 7 7700 Server | 64 GB DDR5 RAM, 2x1 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 35224 |
| Ryzen 9 5950X Server | 128 GB RAM, 2x4 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 46045 |
| Ryzen 9 7950X Server | 128 GB DDR5 ECC, 2x2 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 63561 |
| EPYC 7502P Server (128GB/1TB) | 128 GB RAM, 1 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 48021 |
| EPYC 7502P Server (128GB/2TB) | 128 GB RAM, 2 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 48021 |
| EPYC 7502P Server (128GB/4TB) | 128 GB RAM, 2x2 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 48021 |
| EPYC 7502P Server (256GB/1TB) | 256 GB RAM, 1 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 48021 |
| EPYC 7502P Server (256GB/4TB) | 256 GB RAM, 2x2 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 48021 |
| EPYC 9454P Server | 256 GB RAM, 2x2 TB NVMe |
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⚠️ *Note: All benchmark scores are approximate and may vary based on configuration. Server availability subject to stock.* ⚠️