Soundscapes of Data Centers

This chapter explores the phenomenon of sound masking in relation to the auditory environment surrounding data centers, particularly in a business park in Austin. Speakers discuss the impact of various noises, including traffic and aircraft, on residents’ perceptions and experiences of sound emitted by data centers, emphasizing the need for deeper research into the psychological effects of these sounds. The chapter further introduces the metaphor of 'haunting' to describe the pervasive influence of sound on daily life and its lingering impact on the community.