What is Microsoft Visio and How Can I Use It for Data Center Layouts?

Many of our customers use Microsoft Visio software for equipment layouts in data center planning. To assist our customers, we provide complimentary Visio shapes of many of our more popular products.  

If you're looking for an efficient way to plan data center layouts or create detailed equipment diagrams, Microsoft Visio might be the tool you need. Whether you're new to Visio or a seasoned user, this guide will show you how it can benefit your data center planning process. 

What is Microsoft Visio? 

Microsoft Visio is a powerful diagramming tool that enables IT and business professionals to create visuals such as flowcharts, network diagrams, floor plans, and equipment layouts.  

No one says it better than Microsoft themselves. “Microsoft Office Visio 2007 makes it easy for IT and business professionals to visualize, explore, and communicate complex information. “ 

It transforms complicated text and tables into data-connected diagrams that are easy to refresh and highly productive. 

Here are three key benefits: 

1. Visio provides you the ability to visualize complex data center configurations. You can turn data and ideas into diagrams, making it easier to understand intricate systems and concepts.

 2. It also allows to you to use the visual insights from diagrams to identify issues, trends, or opportunities within your data center.

3. But maybe the most important benefit is you can share diagrams with stakeholders, simplifying communication and enhancing collaboration. After all, a picture truly is worth a thousand words. 

How to Use Microsoft Visio for Data Center Planning 

Visio can be used for simple tasks like brainstorming or for more advanced applications such as designing complex data center layouts. Templates and tools within the software make it easy to start projects, and there are thousands of Visio shapes offered by manufacturers to enrich your designs. 

For example, Chatsworth Products (CPI) provides a library of Visio shapes for its popular products. These shapes allow you to: 

• Accurately represent CPI products in your network diagrams and equipment layouts. 

• Streamline your planning process with ready-to-use templates and detailed shapes. 

• Design efficient layouts for data centers, offices, and other environments. 

Free Visio Shapes for Data Center Components 

To further support our customers, CPI has collaborated with NetZoom, Inc. to offer free Visio shapes of popular CPI products. These shapes are compatible with Visio versions 5/2000/2002/2003/2007 and beyond. Downloading is simple, and our library is updated regularly to include our latest product offerings. 

By downloading the files below, you are agreeing to our License Agreement.    

• ZetaFrame® Cabinet System 
• Z4-Series SeismicFrame® Cabinet 
• Cabinet Accessories   
• Rack Systems, Shelves and Accessories 
• Wall-Mount Systems 
• Cable Management 
• Cable Runway, Tray and Accessories 
• ​Bonding & Grounding