The Everything Feed - All Packet Pushers Pods TNO030: The Backbone of AI: Data Center Ops in the Age of Explosive Growth (Sponsored)
May 23, 2025
Dave Fredericks, a data center expert from Siemon Corporation with decades of experience, discusses the rapid evolution of data center operations amidst AI growth. He highlights the challenges legacy systems face and the shift to advanced cabling standards. The conversation covers the rise of edge data centers, innovations in cooling technologies, and the critical need for proper budgeting in cabling. Fredericks also addresses complex connection management and the implications of new technologies on data center performance.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Follow Cabling Standards Rigorously
- Follow published standards like ANSI TIA 606 for labeling and cabling to ensure manageability.
- Use standards to justify costs and create a clear, manageable cabling infrastructure.
Plan Fiber Optics Strategically
- Ask what optics your infrastructure will support when planning fiber deployment.
- Price out options like multi-mode and single mode to choose the best fit for your needs.
AI Spurs Massive Cabling Growth
- AI nodes use significantly more cabling—11 to 13 cables per node compared to traditional 2-3 cables.
- Backend networks connect GPUs with many cables, while front-end manages storage and management traffic.