Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1219491
22 I ICT TODAY the smallest of the three categories. This means that the reach needed tends to be shorter, which is favorable for MMF and/or copper connections. The data rates are also the lowest because connections are typically to dedi- cated servers and switches. In larger enterprise data centers, space constraints can be a significant problem as MAC work is considered the norm. Therefore, Ultra High Density (UHD) panels are common to allow for periodic maintenance and cabling evolution. A UHD panel is typically defined as one that contains an average of 144 LC connectors in 1RU. These facilities must be designed with the intent to last through multiple generations of equipment; this is one of the primary reasons that structured cabling was developed in the first place. It is also important to recognize the ongoing work that will be done by the operators (normally at the front of the rack) versus the installers (normally done at the rear of the rack). Each have their own set of acces- sibility requirements. In larger enterprise data centers, space constraints can be a significant problem as MAC work is considered the norm. The cloud data center has evolved as a large enterprise facility that is shared in various ways by multiple end users. The cloud data center and enterprise data center have very similar needs with the enterprise having an additional requirement of cost minimization. The key issues for most of these customers include: • Ease of installation so that they can use a variety of technicians • Ease of maintenance due to the regular need for MAC work • Plans for migration since the data center is typically a cost center that needs a strong ROI CLOUD must be balanced with the security of individual con- nections, so it is common to see the physical space required for less dense patch panels. Once inside the data centers, the connections are essentially an extension of the enterprise data center. Data rates may be faster because the costs can be amor- tized across multiple users, but they are not at the cutting edge of technology. The enterprise segment of the data center market is shrinking. For many, the cost benefit of moving to the cloud, either public or private, outweighs the need for control. Therefore, it tends to be specific applications that remain. Often the applications that remain are leg- acy systems that are not very portable. This can mean dedicated servers with specific protocols. It can also mean a system that is considered too important to move off the premises whether for security, maintenance or other busi- ness reasons. Of the three data center categories, this one is the most varied as there are millions of enterprise data centers. On average, these data centers are physically Criteria Transmission Data Rate Installation Latency Density Maintenance Migration RATING Relative Importance Key High Medium Low The term "cloud data center" also covers a wide range of facilities. This category is typified by a number of virtual servers that are used by many end users. A key aspect of the cloud data center is the connection to internet/communication backbones to allow for remote access. Because of the large number of potential clients and service providers, the Meet-Me Room (MMR) must provide access to many connections. However, density