Malang – In an effort to improve the reliability and security of the campus' digital infrastructure, the Center for Information Technology and Databases (PTIPD) at UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang has equipped its data center with an FM200-based automatic fire extinguishing system. The system was installed in May 2023 as part of a disaster risk mitigation measure that could potentially disrupt the campus' digital services.

As the heart of information technology services, data centers play a crucial role. They house various vital computing systems, such as servers, networking devices, data storage, and electrical systems like UPSs and air conditioners. These services are required to operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week without interruption. Therefore, any potential disruption, including fires, must be anticipated as early as possible.

Fire Risk: A Real Threat in Data Center Environments
Fire is one of the highest risks in data center facility management. The numerous electronic devices operating simultaneously and continuously, coupled with the complexity of the electrical installations within them, create the potential for short circuits that can trigger sparks. If not handled quickly and appropriately, even a small fire can cause serious damage and data loss.

FM200 Technology: Fast, Clean, and Safe for Electronics
PTIPD chose the FM200 gas-based extinguishing system because of its internationally recognized advantages as an ideal extinguishing solution for sensitive environments like data centers. FM200 (Heptafluoropropane) is a clean agent gas, meaning it leaves no residue after use. This is crucial for protecting sensitive electronic devices, as liquids or powders from conventional extinguishing systems can damage the internal components of servers and other devices.

This system works automatically. When sensors detect high temperatures or smoke in the data center, the system immediately activates the release of FM200 gas throughout the room within seconds. This gas extinguishes fires by absorbing heat and disrupting the chemical reaction during combustion, without reducing the oxygen level in the room, thus ensuring safety for humans who may be present when the system is activated.

According to NFPA 2001, the international standard for clean agent-based fire suppression systems, FM200 has been proven effective in extinguishing fires in less than 10 seconds, without posing a hazard to humans or damaging electronic property. This technology has also become a minimum requirement for Tier III and Tier IV data center facilities.

Anticipatory Steps to Ensure 24/7 Service
With the FM200 system, PTIPD further strengthens the availability of campus digital services. The risk of data loss, infrastructure damage, and service downtime due to fire incidents can now be minimized. This also forms part of the campus's overall digital transformation, where reliance on data- and cloud-based services is increasing.

Towards a Resilient and Reliable Data Center
The installation of FM200 at the UIN Maliki Malang Data Center is not only about compliance with security standards, but also part of a long-term vision in building a resilient, adaptive IT infrastructure that is ready to face all forms of operational disruptions.

With this active protection system, PTIPD demonstrates its commitment as the primary guardian of the continuity of campus digital services. It's a quiet yet vital step to ensure the entire academic community can continue to learn, access information, and innovate without interruption.