What’s a prefabricated data center module? If you haven’t seen these data centers in action in the past few years, your information is likely out of date. The modular data centers of today offer high levels of technical sophistication (just like their stick-built counterparts) along with the distinct advantages of prefabrication.
Prefabricated data center modules, also called modular data centers (MDCs), are factory-built assemblies that integrate various data center components into a single unit. These units arrive at a job site ready for quick and simple deployment. (Traditionally, each component would remain separate until it’s integrated on-site.)
Prefabricated data center modules come in different varieties, depending on what’s included in the module. For example, electrical and mechanical skids combine electrical and cooling infrastructure (respectively) into single modules ready for action in a data center. The most comprehensive example of a prefabricated data center module is an all-in-one modular data center. These units combine everything except for the IT equipment itself into a single structure.
Modular data centers have evolved considerably since their introduction in the market. PCX created its first modular data center in 2010 and has continued to innovate ever since, delivering new solutions to solve modern challenges.
Some notable changes we’ve seen across the market include advancements in customization, efficiency, structural integrity, and incorporated technologies.
The original product many people still picture when they hear terms like “prefabricated data center” or “modular data center” was a standard off-the-shelf solution, contained in an ISO shipping container. Today, that type of product still exists, but it’s just one model among many, including smaller and larger setups with different types of containers and skid foundations. While stick-built construction will always allow for the highest level of customization, modular data centers today are highly customizable as well, allowing customers to meet their specific requirements.
Energy efficiency is a major topic throughout the data center world—with good reason. Saving energy is more sustainable for the planet and lowers companies’ operating costs. As sustainability and energy efficiency have become higher priorities, prefabricated modules have incorporated features such as energy-efficient components, waste heat recovery systems, and eco-friendly construction materials. That means companies can use prefabricated data center modules to help them meet their sustainability goals.
A common misconception is that prefabricated modules are only designed for temporary installations. While modular data centers are a great choice for a temporary installation, they’re also a great choice for permanent installations. Today, modular data centers are engineered to match the structural integrity of stick-built data centers. This allows you to take advantage of prefabrication without sacrificing quality.
With the rapid advancement of technology, modern prefabricated data center modules often integrate cutting-edge technologies, such as liquid cooling systems. Many modern prefabricated modules come equipped with advanced monitoring systems that allow for real-time performance tracking, remote troubleshooting, and predictive analytics to optimize efficiency and reliability.
Today, modular data centers are being used in a variety of contexts, from on-premises private data centers to edge computing deployments and modular skids used in hyperscale data centers.
With the expanded and more sophisticated options on the market today, it’s no wonder this segment of the data center market is expanding. According to Precedence Research, the modular data center market was valued at $26.34 billion in 2023. That number is expected to rise at a compound annual growth rate of 17.52 percent through the year 2032.
Advancements in MDCs aren’t the only things driving growth in this category. Prefabricated data center modules are also gaining popularity due to:
Today’s modular data centers aren’t “your mother’s” prefab modules—they’re primed for customization and equipped with cutting-edge technology for a solution that’s advantageous across a variety of situations.
Want to learn more about MDCs? Check out our interactive infographic, which shows the various components that go into an all-in-one setup. Explore the anatomy of a modular data center!