| AHU | Air Handling Unit | An AHU conditions and distributes air through a building, but its main purpose is the distribution. It takes air from the outside and combines it with return air from the building. It then goes through a filter, then moves over heating/cooling coils to achieve the desired temperature (possibly dehumidifiers/humidifiers as well), then a fan is used to blow the air and circulate the new conditioned air throughout the building. There are dampers found in the AHU which act as valves regulating the amount of air flow going through the unit. |
| ASI | Architect’s Supplemental Information | An ASI is a formal document issued by an architect to clarify, correct, or add information to the construction drawings or specifications after the contract is signed. It is not an updated version of the construction document; it is just a supplemental document that adds information. |
| ATS | Automatic Transfer Switch | An electrical switch that switches load between two sources when it senses an issue with the primary power source. Usually from a main power source to a backup power source, like a generator. |
| AV | Audio & Visual Systems in conference rooms | It typically involves devices like microphones, speakers, amplifiers, projectors, displays, cameras, and control systems, working together to manage and deliver content to an audience. For a conference room, there are usually just microphones, speakers, amplifiers, cameras, and TVs/monitors. |
| BAS | Building Automation System | It is a computer-based system that controls, monitors, and regulates the HVAC and mechanical systems of a building without the need for direct physical human intervention. It can also include security and monitoring systems. |
| BDF | Building Distribution Frame | Also referred to as the Main Distribution Frame, or Mainframe, it is a central termination point for building network and telecommunication cables in a building. |
| BIM | Building Intelligence Model | A BIM is a digital representation of a building that integrates various data points about its physical and functional characteristics to optimize performance, enhance user experience, and improve operational efficiency. This would be the UI friendly EC-Net-4 component models that can be monitored and controlled from a computer. |
| BMS | Building Management System | A computer-based control system that monitors a building’s mechanical and electrical equipment. The management system encompasses all the building’s systems, including the automation system. The BAS is a component that helps to manage the systems in the building, but not all the systems. |
| BOD | Basis of Design | The "Basis of Design" (BOD) is a document that outlines the fundamental decisions and assumptions made during the design process, ensuring alignment with the Owner's Project Requirements (OPR) and relevant standards. It gives justification to the design and gives construction workers a more comprehensive understanding of what the product should be. |
| BOM | Bill of Materials | A list of the raw materials, assemblies, components, parts, and quantities needed to manufacture a product. |
| BP | Booster Pump | Increases the water pressure, supplemental to the primary pump, in a building’s water system. |
| Busway | | Prefabricated electrical distribution system consisting of bus bars in a protective enclosure, providing power distribution through tap boxes. They look like I-beams, and they are usually suspended from the ceiling. |
| Bus Bars | | Terminals at the end of the busway, they are flat bars. They are an alternate solution to traditional wiring and conduit. |
| CB | Circuit Breaker | Switch that automatically opens the circuit loop if the circuit is overloaded or shorted. |
| CCD | Construction Change Directive | A CCD is a written order from the owner or architect to a contractor, instructing them to perform work that deviates from the original contract, even if they haven't agreed on the cost or schedule adjustments yet. |
| CD | Construction Documents | A construction document is usually an architectural drawing. These drawings visually communicate the design intent, spatial relationships, and technical requirements of a building project. They include floor plans, elevations, sections, and details that guide the construction process. |
| CIBT | Cable Infrastructure Build Team | A CIBT is a group of professionals responsible for the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of the physical network that connects devices, servers, and other hardware within a building or across different locations. This is partially HBT’s team’s responsibilities. |
| CO | Change Order | A change order is a written document that modifies an existing contract, typically in construction or public improvement projects. It outlines changes to the scope of work, schedule, or cost of the original agreement. It is important to note that these are not just requests, but formal amendments. |
| COR | Change Order Request | COR is the same as a CO (Change Order), except it is a request. |
| CPP | Cam Lock Power Panel | A camlock power panel is a specialized electrical panel that uses camlock connectors for temporary power distribution. These panels specialize in temporary power distribution and temperature-controlled environments. |
| CM | Construction Manager | Ensures a project is completed safely and within budget. |
| Containment | | Physical containment of either hot or cold air, to be supplemented with the building's cooling to create the working conditions for a data center. Facebook's typical DC builds use hot aisle containment, while our colo facilities can vary. If you're in London, con-tainment means structured cable tray. |
| CSW | Core Switch | A core switch is a high-capacity network switch positioned at the "core" or backbone of a network, responsible for high-speed data transfer and connectivity between different parts of the network. Acts as a central hub. |
| Cold Storage | | Back-up storage of data, not to be retrieved on an ongoing basis. Typically Tape or Spin-Down Drive storage. |
| Colo | | Co-location facility; leased suites in an independently owned data center. |
| CRAC | Computer Room Air Conditioner | This is responsible for the bulk of the conditioning, which cools the air. The unit is also usually outside. |
| CRAH | Computer Room Air Handler | This is responsible for moving the air throughout the room and is usually indoors. It may do some cooling or heating, but this is only to maintain the desired temperature. |
| CPM | Critical Path Method | It is the sequence of events or tasks that directly affect the duration of the project. It is a method that ensures the movement of materials and schedules are related to the CPM path and makes the project timeline as efficient as possible. |
| CSW | Cluster Switch | A cluster switch, in the context of networking, refers to a group of switches that are managed as a single logical unit. This allows for simplified management, increased bandwidth, and redundancy by combining multiple physical switches into a virtualized entity. |
| CX | Commissioning | Commissioning is the verification that all components function as intended from the start and throughout the building's operation. |
| CXA | Commissioning Authority/Agent | The official person who authorizes and approves the commissioning. |
| DC | Data Center | Facility used to house computer systems and associated components, such as telecommunications and storage systems. |
| DCC | Data Center Connectivity team | Responsible for managing and maintaining the network infrastructure that connects a data center to the outside world and to other data centers. |
| DCIM | Data Center Infrastructure Management | Similar to the connectivity team but is more responsible for the physical infrastructure of the servers, storage, power, cooling, and security. |
| DC UPS | Direct Current Uninterruptible Power Supply | A DC power supply that is provided as backup to the primary power supply. |
| DD | Design Development | Process of completing a design. |
| DDC | Direct Digital Control | Direct Digital Control (DDC) is a computerized control system that uses digital microprocessors to automate and manage processes, typically in building automation systems (BAS) like HVAC. Distech is the DDC software used at HBT. |
| DDC | Dry Dust Collector | A dry dust collector works by using a filter to separate dust and particles from the air, trapping the dust and releasing the cleaned air. It typically involves a blower to draw air into the system, a filter to capture dust, and a mechanism to remove the collected dust. |
| DDFD | Done Done Freaking Done | Final revision of a document or deliverable. |
| DOAS | Dedicated Outdoor Air System | It is a specialized HVAC system designed to introduce and condition 100% outside air into a building, independent of the main heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Although the unit is separate from the main HVAC system, they usually act in conjunction with one another. |
| DP | Distribution Pump | A pump that distributes fluid through a system. Assure consistent flow and pressure. |
| DX | Direct Expansion | Type of cooling unit used in data centers. This is where refrigerant directly cools the air or liquid being conditioned. |
| EC&H | Evaporative Cooling and Humidification | It uses the endothermic properties of water evaporation to cool and add water to the air. |
| End-Feed Box | | Power Feeder Outlet Box delivering power from RPP (Remote Power Panel) or in-row UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) to Busway. |
| ETO | Early Turn Over, used in project management. | It means turning a project over early from HBT to the client, or within HBT and it goes from one team to another. |
| EOR | Engineer of Record | It is the licensed engineer on site who is responsible for the design and construction of a project. |
| Fac Net | Facilities Network | |
| FAT CAT | | Facebook’s backbone network system for latency reduction. |
| Fiber Can | | Patch panel for fiber. Ethernet connection delivered by fiber cable. |
| FF&E | Fixed Furniture & Equipment | |
| FLA | Full Load Amperage | It is the maximum amplitude of amperage that the control panel can take based off the breakers. For example, if the highest amperage breaker and only breaker is 20A, then the FLA is 20A. |
| FPT | Functional Performance Test | |
| FWT | Factory Witness Test | |
| GUI | Graphical User Interface | |
| GMP | Guaranteed Maximum Price | Determines the maximum price a client will pay for a project. |
| HMI | Human Machine Interface | Usually a touch screen but can involve physical buttons with a screen too. |
| HMD | House Mechanical Distribution | It refers to a house that people live in, not in-house. |
| HPM | Highlights, People, Me | Weekly Reports |
| HVB | High Voltage Breaker | Breaker for High Voltage |
| IB | Issue Bulletin | It’s a document or actual board that shows key issues, data to prove the problem exists, and solutions to the problem with people assigned to it. |
| IAC | Indirect Air Cooling | Often uses a heat exchanger. |
| IBOS | Infrastructure Business Operations Support | |
| ICM | Infrastructure Construction Management | Same as IBOS but it is for construction management. |
| IDF | Intermediate Distribution Frame | It is a secondary distribution point in a network infrastructure, usually for large networks like campuses or big buildings with high demands. |
| IFOS | Integrated Facility Operations Support | |
| IST | Integrated System Testing | |
| In-Row UPS | Uninterrupted Power Supply | The use of computers, storage, networking and other physical devices. |
| Jay Box | A server capable of switching load sources with internal failure. |
| KPI | Key Performance Indicator | A measurable value that demonstrates how effectively an organization is achieving its objectives. |
| KVA | Kilovolt-Ampere | A unit of measurement for electrical power. |
| LBSB | Load Bank Switch Board | Cabinet size and takes high voltage around 800V AC. |
| LCP | Local Control Panel | A panel that controls a specific area of the building. |
| LV | Low Voltage | 120V AC or less. |
| LVSG | Low Voltage Switchgear | 120V AC or less. |
| MAC Address | Media Access Control Address | A unique hardware identifier assigned to a network interface controller (NIC). |
| MDF | Main Distribution Frame | The main distribution point in a network infrastructure, usually for large networks. |
| MOAB | Motor Operated Air Breaker | Switch allows change between two power sources. Usually used for high voltage disconnect switches so they can be operated remotely, they are breakers powered by motors and using air as the driving force. |
| MOP | Method of Procedure | A document that outlines the steps to be taken to complete a task or process. |
| MPOE | Main Point of Entry | The point at which the electrical power enters the Data Halls. |
| MSB | Main Switchboard | The main electrical distribution point in a data center (Low Voltage Applications). |
| MSG | Main Switchgear | The main electrical distribution point in a data center (High Voltage Applications). |
| MVA | Mega Volt-Ampere | A unit of measurement for electrical power. |
| MVS | Medium Voltage Switch | |
| MVSG | Medium Voltage Switchgear | |
| MVPSS | Medium Voltage Primary Selector Switch | |
| MW | MegaWatt | A unit of measurement for electrical power. |
| NOC | Network Operations Center | A centralized location for monitoring and managing a network. |
| OAC | Owner Architect Contractor | The three parties involved in a construction project (Funder, Designer, Builder). |
| ODF | Optical Distribution Frame | A frame used to distribute fiber optic cables. |
| OFCI | Owner Furnished Contractor Installed | The owner provides the equipment and the contractor installs it. |
| OFE | Owner Furnished Equipment | The owner provides the equipment. |
| P6 | Primavera Scheduling Software | A project management software by Oracle. |
| Patch Panel | | A panel that connects multiple cables together. |
| PDU | Power Distribution Unit | A device that distributes power from a single source to multiple outlets. |
| PLC | Programmable Logic Controller | A computer that controls and monitors industrial processes. |
| Plenum | | A space in a building that is used for air circulation. |
| Plug-In Box | | Connects racks and DC UPSs (Direct Currect Uninterrupted Power Supply) to the main power distribution system. |
| POC | Point of Contact | A person or team responsible for a specific task or project. |
| POP | Point of Presence | A location where a network or service provider has a physical presence. |
| POR | Plan of Record | The final approved plan for a project. |
| PQM | Power Quality Meter | Measures the quality of the power supplied to a load. |
| PR | Purchase Request | A document that outlines the requirements for a purchase. |
| PTX | Power Transformer | A device that transforms electrical power from one voltage to another. |
| RCM | Regional Construction Manager | The person in charge of construction projects in a specific region. |
| RDDC | Rapid Deployment Data Center | A data center that can be quickly deployed and set up. |
| RFI | Request for Information | A document that requests information from a vendor or supplier. |
| RFP | Request for Proposal | A document that requests proposals from vendors or suppliers. |
| RH | Relative Humidity | The amount of moisture in the air. |
| RO | Reverse Osmosis | A process that removes impurities from water that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove contaminants from water by applying pressure. |
| RPP | Remote Power Panel | A panel that controls and distributes power remotely. |
| RSW | Rack Switch | A switch that is mounted in a rack. |
| RTU | Rooftop Unit | A type of air conditioning unit that is mounted on a roof. |
| SAI | System Acceptance Inspection | An inspection that verifies that a system meets the requirements of the project. |
| SB | Switchboard | A panel that controls and distributes power. |
| SBDC | Stick Built Data Center | A data center that is built using traditional construction methods. |
| SCO | Supply Chain Operations | The management of the flow of goods, services, and related information from raw materials to end customers . |
| SD | Schematic Design | The design phase of a project where the overall layout and design of the building is created. |
| SE&D | Strategic Engineering and Development | The process of developing and implementing a strategic plan for a project. |
| SF6 Breaker | Sulfur Hexafluoride Breaker | A type of circuit breaker that uses sulfur hex to extinguish dangerous arcs. Used in high voltage circuits. |
| SOC | Security Operations Center | A centralized location for monitoring and managing security systems. |
| SOE | Sourcing and Operations Engineering | The process of developing and implementing a plan for sourcing and operating a project. |
| Spine Down Drive | | Secondary storage device that is used to store data in a data center. It can be powered down when not actively in use, saving energy. |
| SOO | Sequence of Operations | A document that outlines the steps to be taken to complete a task or process. |
| SOP | Standard Operating Procedure | A document that outlines the standard procedures for a task or process. |
| SOW | Statement of Work | A document that outlines the scope of work for a project. |
| SP&A | Strategic Planning and Analysis | The process of developing and implementing a strategic plan for a project. |
| SPOC | Single Point of Contact | A person or team responsible for a specific task or project. |
| SSW | Spine Switch | They do not connect directly to end devices, but they connect directly to leaf switches. They are responsible for controlling high speed data transmission to allow reliable communication across the network. |
| STC | System Transfer Cabinet | A housing that holds & controls the switch's primary and backup power sources. |
| TAB | Test and Balance | The process of testing and balancing a system to ensure it meets the requirements of the project. |
| Tap Box | | Power Feeder Outlet Box with circuit breaker. |
| Tape Drive | | Data storage device that uses magnetic tape to store data. |
| Target Plate | | Grate to disperse airflow in data halls. |
| TBH | To Be Hired | A person who has been hired but has not yet started working. |
| TF | Transfer Fan | A fan that is used to transfer air from one location to another. |
| TOR Switch | Top of Rack Switch | A switch that is mounted in a rack and is used to connect devices. |
| TPM | Total Program Management | The Facebook Infrastructure Technical Program Management Team |
| Ts & Cs | Terms and Conditions | The terms and conditions of a contract or agreement. |
| UDB | User Database | A database that stores user information. |
| Uni-Strut | Metal Framing System | A system used to support and organize cabling and other equipment in a data center. |
| UPS | Uninterruptible Power Supply | A device that provides a backup power source. |
| UV | Ultraviolet | A type of electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength shorter than that of visible light. |
| VAV | Variable Air Volume Box | A device that controls the amount of air that is supplied to a space. This controls the airflow in ducts by actuating a plate/damper to restrict air flow. They usually have conditioning heating/cooling coils. |
| VFD | Variable Frequency Drive | A device that controls the speed of a pump by adjusting the frequency input of the electrical power. |
| VRF | Variable Refrigerant Flow | A type of air conditioning system that uses a variable refrigerant flow to control. |
| Wet Media | | Wet media refers to evaporative cooling media or humidification media that is saturated with water. Air is passed through this wet media, and as the water evaporates, it absorbs heat from the air, resulting in a cooling effect and increased humidity. This is due to the latent heat of vaporization, where water changing to a gas state of matter undergoes an endothermic process, resulting in the absorption of large amounts of heat. |
| RHC | Reheat Coil | A coil that is made to use electricity, water, or steam for the heating element. |
| ESP | Ethernet Switch Panel | A control panel responsibile for organizing the communcation cables of a controllers that are dispersed in the building. |
| FM | Flowmeter | A device that measures the flow rate of a fluid. |
| PT | Pressure Transducer | A device that measures the pressure of a fluid. It uses a diaphragm, which bends when pressure exerts a force on it, which causes an electrical signal. |
| TT | Temperature Transmitter | An electronic device that converts the signal from a temperature sensor (thermocouple/thermistor) into an electrical signal for digital data. |
| CA | Compressed Air | Compressed air is used to power pneumatic tools and equipment. |
| DCA | Dry Compressed Air | Compressed air that has been dried to remove moisture. |
| TS | Temperature Sensor | A device that measures the temperature of a fluid. |
| TT&MT | Temperature Transmitter & Humidity Sensor | Similar to TT, except there is also a sensor that measures humidity. |
| WDC | Wet Dust Collector | A device that works by passing air through mist or moist air, then turns the dust into sludge which forms on the walls and then gets discarded. |
| PCWP | Process Chilled Water Pump | A pump that circulates chilled water that is used to cool a process, like a condenser, boiler, or heat exchanger. This water is not filtered and is not safe for consumption or plumbing. |
| SPC | Space | This is a term used to refer to the air or area surrounding the duct. This could be a room, or ceiling. |
| DPT | Differential Pressure Transmitter | This transmits an electrical signal of two different pressures that can be combined to form a difference in pressure. |
| Snag | | Problem created by HBT. |
| Constraint | | Problem created by subcontractor/someone else. |
| SAT | Supply Air Temperature | The temperature of the air that is supplied to a component. |
| Cox | Commissioning | The process of ensuring that a system is installed, tested, and functions as intended. |
| PTP | Point to Point Checkout | The process of verifying the correct wiring and functionality of each individual input and output (I/O) point within a control panel. This must be done on every control panel to verify that all components, inputs, outputs, and controllers are sending the proper signals and receiving the required power. |
| L1 | Panel Readiness | The process of verifying that a control panel is ready for use. This includes verifying that all components. |
| L2 | Pre and Post Energization | The process of verifying the ground and voltages. |
| L3 | Point to Point | The process of verifying the correct wiring and functionality of each individual input and output (I/O) point within a control panel. |
| L4 | Final System Checkout | The process of verifying that the system is functioning as intended, including graphics, red-line drawings, and program functionality. |
| CP | Control Panel | A panel that contains the controls for a system. |
| SP | Sub Panel | A panel that contains the controls for a sub-system. |
| Host ID | | The unique identifier for software licensing. |
| IP Address | | Address enabling communication between network devices. |
| Server | | Central Resource Manager in a Network |
| Network | | System of interconnected devices |
| Host | | Device connected to the intenret. |
| Client | | Personal use device connected to the internet. |
| Router | | Device routing information packets across a network. |