Networking and Cabling Solutions for Enterprise Data Centers and IT Infrastructure
Introduction
The case study outlines a comprehensive approach to networking and cabling solutions for enterprise data centers and IT infrastructure. It covers various methodologies, tools, and processes used to design, implement, and maintain robust network systems. The case study focuses on the key activities, technologies and solutions provided by the company, particularly in the context of brownfield and greenfield setups.
Key Methodologies and Processes
- Sizing and BOQ Understanding:
- The process begins with understanding the BOQ provided by the client, followed by interactive discussions to align with the floor plan and layout.
- This ensures that the network design is tailored to the specific needs of the organization.
- Trenching/Overlaying and Punching:
- The team designs the key paths for trenching and overlaying cables, ensuring optimal routing and minimal disruption to existing infrastructure.
- Punching involves creating pathways for cables, ensuring they are properly laid out and secured.
- Upgraded devices to the most stable PAN-OS version.
- Tracing, Redressing and Labelling:
- After the cables are laid, they are traced, redressed and labelled to ensure proper organization and easy identification.
- This step is crucial for maintaining a structured and manageable network.
- Cabling and Structuring:
- Cables are grouped and tested using tools like FLUKE to ensure they meet performance standards.
- The cables are then structured and scanned, creating a documented record for future reference.
Activities in Data Centers, Hub Rooms and Production Environments
- Network Understanding and Design:
- A complete survey is conducted to understand the network requirements, followed by a department-wise breakdown of the structured BOQ.
- The design includes active components, copper/OFC backbone connectivity, and a project plan for deployment.
- Execution and Handover:
- The project is executed as per the timeline, with change control processes and client approvals for off-peak hours.
- Handover documents include before-and-after photographs, scanning reports, rack elevations, and patching details.
Brownfield Setup
- Client IT Team Scope:
- The client’s IT team is responsible for obtaining departmental approvals for downtime, server room access and providing necessary permissions.
- IT engineers are required to be present during critical activities for emergency management.
- Scope of Work:
- Scanning and rectification of existing data points.
- Termination of jack panels, installation of wall-mount racks and dressing of racks (42U, 33U, 15U, 12U).
- Switch replacement, MDF Krone re-punching, fibre splicing and installation of LIU (48F & 24F).
- Scanning of copper and fibre points using FLUKE and OLTS/OTDR tools, followed by documentation.
Passive Cabling and Setup
- Cable Management:
- Cables are grouped, labelled, and tested to ensure optimal performance.
- Sample photographs are taken before and after the activity to document the changes.
- Rack Elevation:
- Detailed rack elevation diagrams are provided, showing the arrangement of switches, patch panels, and cable managers.
- Examples include 9U, 15U, and 42U rack setups.
Enterprise Data Center Solutions
- New Data Centers:
- Solutions include DCIM (Data Center Infrastructure Management), copper and fibre cabling, rack systems and infrastructure pathways.
- IoT-based connectivity monitoring is implemented for real-time tracking and management
- Colocation Data Centers:
- Detailed rack elevation diagrams are provided, showing the arrangement of switches, patch panels, and cable managers.
- Examples include 9U, 15U, and 42U rack setups.
- Hyperscale Data Centers:
- High-quality, modular solutions are designed for hyperscale data centers, ensuring future-proof infrastructure and high investment protection.
- Solutions include ToR (Top of Rack) fibre solutions, campus fibre assemblies and copper cabling
Fiber Routing and Backbone Connectivity
- OFC Backbone:
- Fiber routing is planned floor-wise, with backbone connectivity established from the main network rack to various units and floors.
- Switches like Red4FA-400.24 Port and RBM25A-400.24 Port are used for connectivity.
- Fiber Splicing and LIU Installation:
- Fiber splicing is performed, and LIU is installed to manage fibre connections.
Greenfield Setup Examples
- PVR INOX LTD:
- End-to-end survey and phase-wise deployment.
- Aruba Central is used for central management and console access.
- Switches and access points are deployed across the country, with weekly team meetings to ensure smooth implementation.
- Activities include Cat6 cable laying, rack dressing, patch panel connection and UTP LAN testing.
- Aditya Birla Group:
- Like PVR INOX, the project involves end-to-end surveys, phase-wise deployment and the use of Aruba Central and ClearPass for network management.
- The setup includes Cat6 cable laying, rack dressing and documentation.
- Piramal Group and Mahindra & Mahindra:
- Both projects involve end-to-end surveys, phase-wise deployment and the configuration of switches and access points.
- Cat6 cable laying, rack dressing and UTP LAN testing are key activities.
Conclusion
The case study highlights the company’s expertise in providing end-to-end networking and cabling solutions for both brownfield and greenfield setups. The key takeaways include:
- Comprehensive Planning: Detailed surveys, BOQ understanding and phase-wise deployment ensure that the network infrastructure meets the client’s needs.
- Advanced Tools and Technologies: The use of tools like FLUKE, OLTS/OTDR, and platforms like Aruba Central and ClearPass ensures high-quality network performance.
- Documentation and Handover: Detailed documentation, including rack elevations, scanning reports and before-and-after photographs, ensures transparency and ease of future maintenance.
- Scalability and Futureproofing: The solutions are designed to be modular and scalable, ensuring that they can adapt to future technological advancements.