The data centre industry is often seen as a new kid on the block, and while that was once certainly true, time has moved on quickly. Many early facilities are now over 20 years old and are beginning to require significant upgrades to remain efficient and competitive. The rapid advancement of technology, especially AI, has highlighted this issue – older data centres simply weren’t built to handle today’s high density workloads and without modernisation they risk becoming unable to cope.

AI and other emerging technologies demand more power, cooling and connectivity than older infrastructures were designed for. Retrofitting these data centres with the latest energy efficient systems, processing units and high density networks is essential, as without these improvements they will struggle to meet the performance and sustainability standards expected in the modern digital landscape. In this issue’s Question Time we’ve asked a specially selected panel of industry representatives to look at this issue in more depth and assess what should take priority.

Data centres aren’t the only structures undergoing significant transformation. The rise of intelligent buildings continues unabated and their ability to utilise network infrastructures in interesting and innovative ways is inspirational. This issue has three excellent articles on this subject. Chris Dyke of Allied Telesis looks at how modern corporate offices are utilising the latest technology to become greener, Mike Hook of LMG examines the role of master systems integrators (MSIs) and how they are creating next generation intelligent buildings, and Brad Stevens of Wesco explains how platform aggregation unlocks the potential for smart facility management.

 Whether it’s a data centre or an intelligent building, the importance of correct testing should never be underestimated and we have a special feature dedicated to this subject. Experts from Anritsu, AEM and NetAlly provide fascinating insight into a range of issues including testing passive optical network (PON) installations and why dedicated network test equipment enables operational efficiency, cost reduction and enhanced business outcomes.

Rob Shepherd
Editor