Computer floor

A computer floor is a special type of floor that is used in rooms where there is a lot of electronic equipment, such as computers, servers, cables and pipes.

Such a computer floor consists of a raised construction of metal or plastic profiles, on which loose panels are placed. The panels can have different materials and finishes, such as wood, steel, aluminum, carpet or vinyl.

With a (raised) computer floor you create a space between the existing floor and the new floor, in which all technical facilities can be concealed. This keeps the space neat and orderly, and the devices can be easily connected, maintained and replaced.

What is a computer floor?

A computer floor, also known as a raised floor, is a floor system that is placed (raised) above the original floor of a room. This system consists of modular panels supported by a sturdy framework.

Computer floors provide space for cabling, such as electrical wiring, data cables and air ducts, allowing for an organized and efficient infrastructure for technology installations.

What requirements must a raised computer floor meet?

A suitable raised computer floor must meet several important requirements:

• Load-bearing capacity: The floor must be able to support the weight of the installed equipment without bending or damage.
• Anti-static properties: It is essential that the computer floor has anti-static properties to prevent electrostatic discharge and thus prevent damage to sensitive equipment.
• Fire resistance: the floor must meet the applicable fire safety standards to ensure the safety of the room.
• Sound insulation: a good computer floor should be able to reduce noise pollution, especially in environments where noise control is important.

For which applications are computer floors suitable?

Computer floors are suitable for various applications where there is a lot of electronic equipment and where high demands are placed on safety, climate control, acoustics and flexibility. Some examples of applications are:

Computer rooms

Computer floors are ideal for computer rooms for several reasons. In this way, they offer an organized and safe solution for concealing cabling and wiring, keeping the space uncluttered.

In addition, they facilitate efficient cooling systems by using the space under the floor for airflow, which is crucial for preventing equipment from overheating.

Another advantage is that computer floors are adaptable and can be tailored to the specific needs and requirements of the computer room, making them a flexible and practical choice.

Data centers

Computer floors are of course also particularly suitable for data centers. First of all, they offer an advanced solution for cabling and wiring management.

The hollow space under the floor allows cables and pipes to be neatly concealed, ensuring a tidy and efficient environment. However, computer floors also provide effective airflow regulation, which is essential for cooling the sensitive equipment in a data center.

Shipping

In the shipping industry, computer floors are often used to provide a reliable and secure environment for technology and communications equipment on board ships.

In this way, they provide a stable and safe surface for the installation of electronic equipment on board ships. This is crucial to ensure the reliability and performance of navigation and communications systems, even under the harsh conditions at sea.

An added benefit is that computer floors are modular and customizable, making them easy to adapt to the specific layout and needs of different vessels.

Furthermore, raised floors ensure effective heat dissipation, which is essential to prevent overheating of electronic components, especially in the often confined spaces on board ships.

What should you take into account when installing a computer floor?

When installing a computer floor, you must take various aspects into account, such as grounding, the substructure, the panels and accessories. These aspects are explained in more detail below

Grounding the computer floor

Grounding the computer floor is an important measure to prevent electrostatic discharge, which can be harmful to the equipment and users.

Grounding a computer floor consists of connecting all metal parts of the floor with a grounding cable, which in turn is connected to a grounding point in the building. It is essential that the applicable standards and regulations are met.

Prepare substructure

Preparing the substructure is an essential step to create a stable and level base for the computer floor. The substructure consists of steel beams on adjustable legs, which in turn are attached to a concrete subfloor.

The supporting beams must be placed perpendicular and parallel to each other, with a distance of approximately 60 centimeters. The height of the legs must then be adjusted so that the supporting beams are level.

Selecting the correct panels

Selecting the right panels is an important decision that affects the quality, appearance and functionality of the computer floor. The panels must match the dimensions, weight and use of the equipment that will be placed on the floor.

You can choose from wooden, metal and plastic panels, and these must meet the requirements for fire resistance, antistatic, acoustics and thermals.

Choosing necessary accessories

Choosing necessary accessories is a final step to complete the computer floor. These accessories are intended to improve the ease of use, safety and aesthetics of the floor. Some examples of accessories are:

• Air vents
• Cable ducts
• Floor boxes
• Edge finishing
• Stairs and landings

Alternatives to a raised computer floor

While a raised computer floor offers many benefits, there are also alternatives available, such as cable management solutions and floor trays, which can be considered based on specific needs. Processing the cabling in the ceiling is also possible.

If you choose one of these alternatives, you have more options for choosing a beautiful floor for the room. With computer floors you only have a limited range of floor finishes for safety reasons.

Feel free to ask about the options at ICM Projects and discover what is possible. We are happy to give you advice about selecting the right floor for your business

How long does it take to install a raised floor?

The duration of installation of a raised floor depends on several factors, including the size of the room and the complexity of the installation. Generally, an experienced team can complete an average installation in just a few days.

What is the function of a computer floor?

A computer floor provides an elevated platform for the installation of technological equipment, allowing cabling to be organized and improving the accessibility of the space.

Is a computer floor mandatory in specific rooms?

Making a computer floor mandatory may depend on local regulations and specific requirements for the room in question. It is important to consult the applicable regulations when planning the floor installation.