Infrastructure Solutions for AI Data Centers

Critical Power

More equipment and higher GPU density equate to the need for more power. Data is being driven at an all-time high rate which is causing an increase in computing speed derived from training and inference workloads and seeing 12x more power required to the rack. Power will have to be thought of in a different light including the need for utilizing off-grid supplies such as renewable energy.

Fiber Connectivity

Fiber will be utilized for all rack-to-rack and most in-rack connections. Having the right fiber architecture implemented will resolve network latency issues and provide a pristine focus on GPU-GPU communication. To connect all of the GPUs to create a cluster (or pod) needed for larger-scale AI, fiber cabling and high-speed optical transceivers are required. In return, having the right Fiber connectivity in place can work effortlessly to maintain the high-speed data transfer that stems from the continuous learning of AI models.

Cooling

The increase in the number of AI and HPC systems in data centers and their high-power usage per rack is speeding up the need for innovative cooling methods. There are several cooling options available, including typical air cooling, air-assisted liquid cooling, and direct liquid cooling.  Which one is the right one for your application? Not having the right cooling method in place can cause equipment failure, system downtime, and a rise in energy costs.

• Add our Direct-to-Chip Cooling System to your Cooling Strategy

Pathways

Cable routing is a key component in managing an AI Data Center network. With AI clusters requiring a new environment and GPU servers needing much more connectivity between servers the proper cable management application must be installed to prevent physical damage that can result in a disruption of critical network connections.

Cabinets, Racks, and Containment

Containing higher densities will be a major challenge for data center operators as they prepare to transform their layout, and many will choose a rack and stack method to accommodate the higher load and deeper cabinets. High-density racks are required to support high-performance compute and AI workloads and in return will have a minimal impact on power consumption. In addition, having a dedicated containment solution in place will help align cooling strategies to combat high power demands.

Gray Space

When reimagining your Data Center environment it will be important to rethink how your Data Center Gray Space layout will work together with your AI infrastructure. Cable cleats, grounding and bonding, and safety products will lead the way in making sure operations are efficient and support your power and cooling requirements.