People ask me all the time how to size the bandwidth or how much bandwidth do we need? Well let me give the secret, first you need one of these devices: a modem. (PS this is a satire piece) But, I suppose deep down buried in some government regulation on page 76, Appendix E.4 – there is a requirement for a “hard line” backup. Well, here you go. …
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We recently conducted a one-day training session focused on fiber optic cable installation using Maxcell, a unique product that enables adjustable subduct sizing. In Europe, this product is colloquially known as ‘socks.’ Its versatility makes it a staple in our operations. With Maxcell, it’s possible to pull multiple cells simultaneously, allowing us to fit approximately six sleeves into a single 4-inch conduit. This often results in a more efficient use of space compared to traditional, rigid innerducts. A special shout-out …
Examine these photos of what we consider to be an exemplary Point of Entry (POE) room for network infrastructure. What elevates this room to such a high standard? It’s in the meticulous attention to details, designed for operational excellence and security. Reaching this level of precision has been a decade-long journey, filled with continual improvements and refinements. Can you identify the specific elements that contribute to this exceptional setup? …
It’s no secret we are coming out big with LC4. This is only about 1/4 of the total building! Can’t wait to share the details as this project unfolds. …
Undoubtedly, this fiber build stands as my all-time favorite, skillfully interconnecting our three mega campuses along Data Center Alley through numerous dedicated ducts. Our clients are thrilled to enjoy uninterrupted, dedicated conduits that facilitate seamless expansion while maintaining a predictable cost structure. What sets this build apart and makes it my top pick? The exhilarating challenge, meticulous planning, and diligent work that went into its two-year realization! …
In addition to my role as “Fiber Dan”—I am also responsible for overseeing our facility’s network infrastructure. This network manages crucial systems including the Building Management System (BMS), security measures, guest WiFi, office networking, and even the client’s gaming systems like PlayStation 5. Thanks to our low-latency fiber-optic network, real-time gaming experiences on titles like Fortnite and Call of Duty are significantly enhanced. Before any network topology goes live in our data center, it undergoes rigorous testing in a controlled …
Contrary to a common misconception, light does not always travel in a straight line; it can be bent or refracted depending on the medium and external forces. In the context of fiber optic cabling, it is crucial to maintain an appropriate bend radius to ensure optimal signal integrity. While it may seem counterintuitive, it is possible to achieve almost 90-degree bends without signal loss by employing a gradual sweeping curve over a length of approximately 60 inches (or about 1.5 …
I remain uncertain whether the growing popularity of microduct is a temporary fad or indicative of a lasting trend in the industry. Microduct offers a few notable advantages, including a reduced physical footprint and quicker installation times. However, I haven’t yet formed a conclusive opinion on its effectiveness when compared to traditional high-count cables. Proponents claim that microduct simplifies splicing and makes it easier to route cables to multiple rooms, eliminating the need for transitions in the Point of Entry …
One crucial element in successfully managing operations at a large scale lies in meticulous attention to detail throughout the process. For instance, we recently faced an issue with a specific chamber where cables were improperly laid on the floor. To rectify this, we installed a cable riser to ensure better organization and ease of access. Organized cabling significantly enhances operational efficiency. It not only simplifies troubleshooting during outages but also instills a sense of professional pride in the quality of …
So many times the vendor asks to extend the job for various reasons and we typically allow it but always make them cleanup before they go. Just because the day is over doesn’t mean an emergency doesn’t popup where we need to get back into the room and do some troubleshooting. We always make sure the job is clean and ready at the close of business day whether that be sweeping or closing up chambers. …
In the final stages of commissioning LC2, I took it upon myself to explore the resilience of our systems by utilizing various networking tricks, with the most destructive being the notorious network broadcast storm. For those unfamiliar with network storms, you can learn more here: https://www.techopedia.com/definition/6270/broadcast-storm Following this experiment, we now mandate that all vendors perform an actual broadcast storm test and document the results. Should a unit fail to remain operational during the storm (i.e., it shuts down or …
Amidst the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, the data center industry continues to persevere. As mission-critical facilities, data centers must be built and operated without interruption. Our teams are taking every precaution to mitigate the spread of the virus and maintain a safe working environment. The pandemic has led to a surge in demand for cloud services, with Microsoft Azure experiencing an astonishing 700% increase in usage. This growth underscores the vital role data centers play in supporting remote …
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