The swift advancement of AI data center technologies has revolutionized various sectors, leading to a marked increase in the requirement for dedicated computing infrastructure.
While established data center hubs in the FLAP-D region Frankfurt, London, Amsterdam, Paris, and Dublin have met much of this demand, the need for AI infrastructure is now spreading to other areas of Europe, including Romania.
EvoBits IT, a pioneering company in this sector, has tailored its offerings to address this escalating demand. required, it currently oversees more than 900 AI servers, establishing itself as a significant contributor to Romania’s developing data center landscape.
From Cryptocurrency to AI: A Business Transformation
Founded in 2014 as a software development enterprise, EvoBits IT shifted its focus in response to evolving market needs, initially entering the data center industry during the cryptocurrency mining surge of 2017.
Over time, the company fully transitioned into the data center domain, concentrating exclusively on infrastructure solutions.
By 2020, EvoBits IT discontinued its software development services to dedicate itself entirely to the growth of its AI data center capabilities.
Custom AI Infrastructure Strategy
In contrast to numerous competitors that depend on off-the-shelf servers, EvoBits IT employs a distinctive methodology.
The company constructs its own AI servers internally, utilizing desktop-level central processing units (CPUs) to enhance single-core performance.
To mitigate the limitations associated with desktop CPUs, EvoBits IT integrates custom power distribution boards and PCIe switches, thereby optimizing power delivery and data transfer efficiency.
This approach has enabled EvoBits IT to maintain a competitive edge, even as a smaller entity. Currently, the company caters to fewer than 10 clients while achieving a turnover of approximately €7 million ($7.29 million) over the past year.
Advancements in AI Cooling Solutions
AI computing introduces specific challenges, particularly regarding cooling systems.
Conventional data centers typically base their cooling strategies on airflow per thermal unit; however, AI systems necessitate significantly higher airflow than standard models indicate.
Drawing on its expertise in cryptocurrency mining, EvoBits IT has refined cooling solutions for its high-performance AI infrastructure.
The company enforces rigorous airflow management through aisle containment systems that effectively segregate hot and cold air streams.
Furthermore, it utilizes indirect evaporative cooling, which harnesses water evaporation to dissipate heat while preserving a sealed internal environment.
This method has achieved a Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) ratio of less than 1.15, indicating that less than 15% of total energy consumption is expanded on overhead power usage.
Developing Advanced AI Data Center
EvoBits IT is in the process of establishing an 18MW modular liquid-cooled data center, in partnership with Nvidia.
This facility is designed to accommodate 150–200 kilowatts (KW) per rack, significantly surpassing the typical 5-15KW capacity of traditional air cooled systems.
The advanced infrastructure will support Nvidia’s latest GB200 and upcoming graphics processing unit (GPU) models.
Addressing Regional Infrastructure Limitations
EvoBits IT’s headquarters in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, offers both advantages and obstacles.
The region’s power supply and availability of a skilled workforce foster the growth of AI infrastructure; however, its location north of the Carpathian Mountains poses challenges for connectivity.
Enhancing Collaborations for Expansion
EvoBits IT’s expansion strategy focuses on cultivating robust partnerships with industry leaders.
One notable collaborator is Innova Engineering, which plays a crucial role in the design and construction of EvoBits IT’s data centers.
Additionally, Supermicro provides server hardware, while ASBIS manages component distribution throughout Eastern and Central Europe.
Maintaining strong relationships with these partners has enabled EvoBits IT to navigate financial difficulties, including instances where the company faced potential bankruptcy.
For instance, Innova Engineering offered vital services while permitting deferred payments, illustrating the strong mutual trust established between the two organizations.
A Customer-Focused Strategy
EvoBits IT adheres to a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of cultivating enduring relationships rather than pursuing immediate financial gains.
Green Energy Initiatives
In alignment with its dedication to sustainability, EvoBits IT is incorporating renewable energy solutions within its data centers.
Future plans encompass the installation of solar panels paired with battery storage systems, which will provide energy autonomy during peak summer periods.
These battery systems are engineered for a lifespan exceeding ten years, ensuring both efficiency and dependability.
Additionally, the company has refined its power infrastructure to minimize transmission and conversion losses, further solidifying its commitment to long-term sustainability.
Expert Editorial Comment
EvoBits IT’s growth strategy includes the establishment of new data centers in Romania, focusing on Bucharest and the western regions.
This initiative aims to create a strategic “triangle” of certified data centers, thereby enhancing connectivity and redundancy throughout the nation.
By emphasizing sustainable development and long-term investments, EvoBits IT is positioning itself as a frontrunner in the rapidly evolving AI data center sector.
