What To Do When Data Center Layouts Create Accessibility Issues

Data centers are no strangers to change. Layouts evolve over time to optimize performance and adapt to new technology and operational requirements.

If progress and growth are factored into the initial design, then reconfiguring the layout to adapt to new technologies and changes in operational requirements shouldn’t be a problem.

If they aren’t taken into consideration, however, then you may run into trouble as you change your data center layout.

Case in point: We worked with a data center team that, after making layout changes, could no longer open a patch panel. Why? Because a power supply switch was getting in the way. This obviously impeded their ability to troubleshoot network issues, add and remove connections, and make sure cables are correctly connected and labeled.

In a data center, how does a problem like this come to be?

There are many possible causes. During initial setup, for example, miscommunication about and/or insufficient planning for equipment and placement can lead to design clashes like these from the start.

Lack of a flexible, modular design often means that devices must remain in fixed positions, limiting workable options when it's time to add new components. The existing ones can't be moved, reconfigured or repositioned.

Sometimes, the data center layout works in the beginning, but changes made over time cause issues. For instance, as new devices are added to racks and cabinets without considering spatial requirements, connectivity needs or adjacent equipment, design conflicts can create obstructions that impact performance.

In other cases, as data center density increases, data center managers face space constraints. This can force them to place equipment in admittedly tight quarters where one device hinders access to or functionality of another. Why? Because they don't see any other option.

The path to improving patch panel accessibility

Believe it or not, we've seen many situations similar to the one we just described above, where data center managers struggle with maintaining patch panel access. Without proper planning, things like plugs, power distribution units (PDUs), vertical managers and even cables themselves can block access to the patch panel.

In the example above, the switch couldn’t be moved, and neither could the patch panel. In these situations, we often find customers coming to us to ask: “What can we do to fix the problem? What other options do we have?”

Every time we receive a request like this, we make sure we understand the full scope of the problem, the solutions in place, why components aren't working as they should be and what could be done to remedy the situation. This often means:

1. Asking for specific details about the existing setup and products in use, as well as temporary solutions that have been tried
   
   
2. Visually assessing the situation, whether through photos, videos, a virtual tour or an onsite visit
   
   
3. Analyzing the data center layout and determining why the accessibility problem exists in the first place (design flaws, poor planning, spatial limitations, something else?)
   
   
4. Proposing possible solutions to take care of the design clash so data center managers can easily and safely access the patch panel

In the case of the power supply switch interfering with the patch panel, our answer was to create a tailored V-shaped patch panel. The angled design increases clearance room at the front of the patch panel for easier access. It also guides cables into ports, reduces the risk of tangling and improves cable management.

To solve similar problems, we’ve also created patch cord trays that are narrow at the extreme side but normal width in the middle. The narrow ends can be placed in tight spaces, while the middle still provides ample space for cable organization. This enables data center managers to work around obstructions from vertical managers, PDUs or cables to access patch panels.

Sometimes the tailored solutions we design to solve a specific issue for a specific customer become standard offerings. Our Zero U Vertical Patching is a good example. We originally designed it for a customer who needed to free up valuable rack space for other equipment but still accommodate fiber and copper in their cabinets. Today, it’s a solution that any data center customer can incorporate into their data center layout if they choose.

Your data center masterminds

Our in-house data center experts, engineers and specialists can be part of your process-no matter where you are. They're the masterminds behind the complete connection solutions that appear in data center infrastructure projects of all sizes all over the world.

Because we work collaboratively, we explore and generate ideas with you. We can discuss ideas openly, share constructive criticism and celebrate successes. Collaboration results in innovation-and innovation helps your organization thrive.

Learn how we support your mission-critical data center operations.

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