CLOUD
Relative Importance Key
High Medium Low
22 I ICT TODAY
the smallest of the three categories. This means that
the reach needed tends to be shorter, which is favorable
for MMF and/or copper connections. The data rates are
also the lowest because connections are typically to dedicated
servers and switches.
In larger enterprise data centers, space constraints
can be a significant problem as MAC work is considered
the norm. Therefore, Ultra High Density (UHD) panels
are common to allow for periodic maintenance and
cabling evolution. A UHD panel is typically defined
as one that contains an average of 144 LC connectors
in 1RU. These facilities must be designed with the intent
to last through multiple generations of equipment; this
is one of the primary reasons that structured cabling
was developed in the first place.
It is also important to recognize the ongoing work
that will be done by the operators (normally at the
front of the rack) versus the installers (normally done
at the rear of the rack). Each have their own set of accessibility
requirements.
In larger enterprise data centers,
space constraints can be
a significant problem as MAC
work is considered the norm.
The cloud data center has evolved as a large enterprise facility that is shared in various ways by multiple end
users. The cloud data center and enterprise data center have very similar needs with the enterprise having
an additional requirement of cost minimization. The key issues for most of these customers include:
• Ease of installation so that they can use a variety of technicians
• Ease of maintenance due to the regular need for MAC work
• Plans for migration since the data center is typically a cost center that needs a strong ROI
must be balanced with the security of individual connections,
so it is common to see the physical space
required for less dense patch panels.
Once inside the data centers, the connections are
essentially an extension of the enterprise data center.
Data rates may be faster because the costs can be amortized
across multiple users, but they are not at the cutting
edge of technology.
The enterprise segment of the data center market
is shrinking. For many, the cost benefit of moving to the
cloud, either public or private, outweighs the need for
control. Therefore, it tends to be specific applications
that remain. Often the applications that remain are legacy
systems that are not very portable. This can mean
dedicated servers with specific protocols. It can also mean
a system that is considered too important to move off the
premises whether for security, maintenance or other business
reasons.
Of the three data center categories, this one is the
most varied as there are millions of enterprise data
centers. On average, these data centers are physically
Criteria Transmission Data Rate Installation Latency Density Maintenance Migration
RATING
The term “cloud data center” also covers a wide
range of facilities. This category is typified by a number
of virtual servers that are used by many end users. A key
aspect of the cloud data center is the connection to
internet/communication backbones to allow for remote
access. Because of the large number of potential clients
and service providers, the Meet-Me Room (MMR) must
provide access to many connections. However, density