14
OPINION
Breaking down
the hierarchy
By Dave Sterlace, Global Head
of Data Centre Technology, ABB
www.abb.com
Peer-to-peer systems and elastic
infrastructures can provide
faster decision making
As demand for data continues to grow, and traditional
analogue electrical systems come under increasing strain,
the complexities for IT managers and consultants become
ever more intricate. Couple this with the greater use of
robotics and AI and the future looks even more complicated.
Not only do they need to navigate their way around data
ownership, security, safety, storage and maintenance, they
also need to be one step ahead on technical know-how and
insight to improve business operations.
Breaking down barriers
As complexity grows, simplicity, automation and versatility
are key drivers in managing the data centre network
environment. Reducing latency and the number of control
layers, doing more at a local level, even autonomously, if
possible, and managing growing infrastructure costs, are
critical outcomes for the next generation networks.
It’s therefore essential that today’s networks and major
system solutions are created with elasticity in mind, from
concept and design through to installation, control and
operation. This smart digitalisation creates the flexibility
for operators to do more with their assets because better
control leads to improved utilisation. It provides the
ability for infrastructure and networks to grow or shrink
dynamically as needed, adapting to workloads and
maximising resources.
How this can be achieved
Digital communication and peer-to-peer control reduce the
need for multiple, linear control layers; from circuit breakers
through to switchgear and Building Management Systems
(BMS) towards the data centre infrastructure management
(DCIM) modules, as you move up the hierarchy.
Digitalisation eases pressure on the hierarchy. It provides
north to south, east to west directional controls and
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