Consolidation of IT systems into data centers resulting in major rollout of data center projects. This has resulted in the adoption of Category 6A/Class EA cabling systems and pre-terminated multi-fibre based solutions.

A Typical Data center topology as per TIA 942

An emerging trend in the industry is physical layer management systems that provide real-time monitoring of physical layer connections. "Physical layer elements monitor and map all connections in the cross-connect field. The monitoring hardware can be integrated with the element management and network management layers in the telecommunications managed network (TMN), and any inadvertent disconnection is immediately detected," adds Natarajan.

Kevin sees fiber gaining popularity. "The future lies in the convergence of IP systems data, CCTV, access control, monitoring and management on different levels within the building controlling the building from within, in the next town, state or country. Fiber is expanding in data centers because of its low density and lower installation cost. The per port cost of fiber is still higher than copper – but we are seeing an increase in the usage of fiber in data centers predominantly related to the increase in use of fiber to the cabinet in addition to the traditional backbone application," he says.

Space and Power
Data center requirements continuously change. Environmentally controlled real estate is expensive, and maximizing space is critical. Data center racks and equipment can take up an enormous amount of real estate, and future network demands may require even more space.

"Earthing issues and capacity planning of cooling and power requirements are two critical challenges we face during installations," says Natarajan. Designing in plenty of empty floor space enables reallocating space to a particular function, and adding new equipment as needed. As connections, bandwidth and storage requirements grow, so do the amount of cabling connecting key areas and equipment. Choosing high-density cabling and connectivity solutions that require less rack, floor, and pathway space will leave more room for reconfiguration and growth.

The infrastructure must, consistently protect cabling and connections while supporting the flow of data without errors that cause retransmission and delays. The cabling should also support current bandwidth needs while enabling migration to higher network speeds.

Builders Have a Role
Property developers are in a highly competitive market within Asia Pacific. Forward looking developers understand that by designing a building, with the connectivity included will allow them to sell more value to customers and gain competitive advantage.

The trend of cabling vendors aligning with ACE or architects consultants and engineers for structured cabling is not a new trend elsewhere, but in India it is slowly catching on. The builders have improved their act and are not taking their client's IT needs for granted. They are working closely with the structured cabling vendors and planning out fit outs best suited for the occupants to ensure smooth opening and functioning for the new offices.

"In India the concept of third party consultants for structured cabling hasn't caught up yet. There is a huge scope for cabling vendors to act like consultants for the builders and advise them on pathways, and cabling fit outs," says Mylaraiah.

The advantage of this is that firms or enterprises that move into a new building can save time in planning basic cabling infrastructure and can shorten time to market. The fit outs can be better conformed to the cabling standards and thus ensure convenience to both the builder's and cabling vendor's clients.

There is a renewed interest in intelligent buildings. Furthermore, since the 9/11 incident, physical security has gained paramount importance. This has resulted in the advent of IP-based security and access control systems.

Malovika Rao
malovikar@cybermedia.co.in

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