In 2012, Dantherm Cooling redefined the standard on what reliable, mission-critical, energy efficient cooling looks like by introducing the first DC-powered air conditioning units to the telecom industry. At the time, DC Air Conditioning was virtually unheard of in the telecom sector, but we recognized an opportunity to shape the industry with an improved solution.
We developed the industry’s first DC powered unit, offering smoother operation, lower energy consumption, and most importantly, uninterrupted performance during power outages. This innovation marked a major shift in how telecom sites protect their mission-critical equipment. What began as a single solution to a specific challenge, quickly evolved into a new standard, laying the foundation for a decade long journey of innovation, refinement and expansion.
Why 2012 Was a Turning Point
Early in the 2010s, we identified a major gap in the telecom infrastructure–the need for reliable, energy-efficient cooling during power outages. While these sites had backup generators and batteries, traditional AC units could not operate without grid power. The result was problematic: interruptions in operations in an environment where reliable cooling is critical. Our team of engineers developed a solution: a unit that runs completely off DC voltage and produces a better, more efficient product for the customer.
The DC unit features all DC fans and compressors, an upgraded control panel and is capable of continuous operation through power outages. Beyond providing reliable cooling, the unit also offers tighter temperature control, smoother operation and lower energy consumption compared to AC units. This innovation solved power surge problems which resulted in lower downtime and established new industry standards for reliable cooling in critical applications.
Challenges and Breakthroughs
Like any new product development process, the development of our first DC air conditioner unit was not without its challenges. However, the process was defined by persistence, innovation and teamwork and resulted in some outstanding breakthroughs. One of the biggest hurdles became a key advantage of DC systems: variable speed operation. Our engineers worked relentlessly testing different fan speed and control configurations through real time demand adjustments to achieve energy efficiency, temperature precision and noise control. Initially, the first customers reported that DC systems produced noise even when operating at low speeds. We approached this issue head on and meticulously improved the acoustics in an anechoic chamber until we had created one of the quietest units in its class.
Another breakthrough came in the refinement of our control system. We were able to produce a control panel that reports real time data on fan speed, compressor usage, current draw and overall performance. This is a major improvement from an older AC control panel, that only could identify if the unit was on or off.
How DC Units Have Evolved
Since launching our first DC unit in 2012, our DC cooling product line has evolved and grown into our PrecisionAir Series to meet the diversifying needs of our customers. What began as a single unit at 4,000 BTU’s has expanded into a full range from compact 2,000 BTU models, to powerful 28,000 BTU systems. Each product is engineered for performance, quiet operation, reliability and efficiency in mind. Today, our PrecisionAir Series units provide advanced temperature control with smart monitoring to support the evolving needs of telecom and crucial infrastructure.
The Future of Efficient Cooling
As the demand for stable and efficient systems grows, Dantherm’s Cooling solutions continue to lead the way. While telecom remains at the center, an interest is rising in the energy storage sectors, where battery systems require precise cooling to manage spikes and prevent overheating. Our units not only maintain precise climates without power surges but are also engineered for long term reliability and easy field maintenance, reflecting years of refinement we have made in design and usability. Looking ahead, we are focused on applying what we have learned to even larger systems, working to bring the benefits of DC units (control, quiet operation and energy efficiency) to five-ton and beyond applications. As we push those boundaries, our mission remains the same: Engineered to perform. Built to last.
Learn more about our PrecisionAir series unit or contact us to continue the conversation.
