AKCP Thermal Map Sensor

In modern data centers, even small microclimate variations can pose major risks. Minor deviations in temperature or humidity can threaten sensitive IT hardware. To ensure balanced cooling and uncover hot spots or inefficient airflow zones, AKCP provides its Thermal Map Sensor solution. Also known as the AKCP Temperature Chain, this system enables comprehensive rack-level measurements for efficient hotspot monitoring.

More than a standard temperature sensor, the AKCP Thermal Map Sensor consists of a chain of three points of measurement placed at the top, middle, and bottom of an IT rack. This setup produces an accurate vertical temperature profile, giving administrators crucial insights into air circulation and cooling efficiency. When combined with an optional humidity sensor, the system becomes a complete temperature and humidity monitoring solution for server rooms.

Typically, two sensor strings are deployed per rack: one at the front to measure intake air, and one at the back for exhaust air. The system automatically calculates ∆T (Delta T) between front and rear, highlighting inefficiencies and blocked airflow paths. This Delta T monitoring is one of the most effective tools for ensuring reliable, energy-efficient cooling strategies in data centers.

All captured data is transmitted in real-time via SNMP to monitoring platforms such as PRTG, Zabbix, or Nagios. With AKCPro Server, operators also gain advanced visualization: animated 3D heatmaps, Delta T charts, and hotspot detection, simplifying analysis and enabling proactive cooling adjustments across the data center.

Comprehensive Monitoring with Flexible Sensor Chain

Each Thermal Map Sensor includes three measuring points that can be easily placed with magnets or adhesive. This ensures detection of thermal anomalies caused by cable cutouts, faulty air conditioning, or poor airflow distribution. An optional variant (CTHMS) adds humidity sensing, making it especially useful for archives, labs, museums, and pharmaceutical storage.

Technical Specifications

• Temperature range: -35 °C to +80 °C
• Resolution: 0.1 °C
• Accuracy: ±0.3 °C
• Humidity range (CTHMS): 0% to 100% RH
• Humidity resolution: 1% RH
• Humidity accuracy: ±2–5% RH
• Interface: RJ45 over Cat5/6 cabling
• Standard cable length: up to 15 m, extendable to 100 m

Application Areas

• Data centers and server rooms: prevent downtime caused by hotspots.
• Hot aisle / cold aisle monitoring: control airflow across containment zones.
• Telecom facilities: maintain stable operating environments for networking equipment.
• Pharmaceutical & food storage: compliance with cold-chain regulations.
• Archives, museums, libraries: climate stability for sensitive collections.
• Agriculture: climate management in greenhouses.

Energy Efficiency & Cost Savings

By identifying hot and cold spots in real time, operators can avoid overcooling server rooms. Studies indicate that targeted adjustments with AKCP Thermal Map Sensors can reduce cooling-related energy costs by up to 30%. This also lowers stress on HVAC systems, extending their lifespan and reducing maintenance costs.

Durability and Reliability

The AKCP Thermal Map Sensor is engineered for demanding environments. Operating reliably in ambient conditions from -35 °C to +80 °C and up to 80% non-condensing humidity, its rugged design protects against environmental damage, ensuring consistent performance over years of usage.

Integration with AKCP Platforms

Installation is plug-and-play. The sensor connects via RJ45 to AKCP sensorProbe+, sensorProbeX, or securityProbe units. With AutoSense detection, it is immediately registered on the platform. As a standardized network sensor, it can also be integrated quickly into third-party SNMP monitoring systems.

Alerting & Notifications

When thresholds are exceeded, the system issues immediate alerts via e-mail, SMS, or SNMP traps. This ensures IT staff can promptly react to protect critical infrastructure. Early warning of microclimate risks is key to maintaining server room uptime and data availability.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Can the cable length be extended?
Yes, lengths up to 100 meters are possible using Cat5/6 cabling.

Are there different model options?
Yes, available in THMSS (Temperature only) and CTHMS (Temperature + Humidity) models.

What accuracy does it provide?
±0.3 °C for temperature, ±2–5% RH for humidity. Resolution of 0.1 °C and 1% RH.

How is it mounted?
Quickly attach via magnets or adhesive strips, with flexible repositioning.

The AKCP Thermal Map Sensor delivers advanced rack-level microclimate monitoring with multi-point temperature sensing, Delta T analysis, and SNMP integration. By enabling proactive cooling optimization and hotspot detection, it reduces downtime risks and achieves significant energy savings. Enhanced with AKCPro Server visualization, this sensor is a vital component for efficient, secure, and sustainable data center management.