030.

8684

Data Center Solutions

Performance and Scalability
Unleashed
050.7152

Introduction

Introduction 3

Embracing the Future of Data 4 -8

Centers

R&M integrated DC approach 10 - 12

How we help you reach your 13
KPI targets approach A note from Carsten Ludwig
Our modular approach 14 Market Manager - Data Center, R&M
R&M building blocks 16 - 17
Servers 18
Switches 19 Digitalization is profoundly reshaping business and
Storage 20 work in many ways – and things are just getting started.
Discover R&M’s integrated ultra-high- 22 - 23 Platform-based business models have been enabled.
density platform Advanced analytics, big data, and AI are helping make
Optical transmission 24 - 25 informed decisions and optimizing everything from
Copper connectivity 26 supply chains to logistics. Intelligent automation is
Rack and Containment 28 enhancing efficiency and accuracy. Digital platforms
Cabinet, infrastructure housing 30 - 31 make it possible to offer personalized experiences,
and containment solutions engage with customers in real-time, and obtain instant
Cooling 32 feedback. Employees can access data and work from
Power solutions 34 - 35 anywhere, with anyone.
PDU 36
UPS 38 As these developments evolve, businesses need to
STS 40 keep adapting their approaches and operations. That
Fire protection 42 - 45 also means rethinking Data Center infrastructure,
Data Center Infrastructure 46 - 48 architecture, connectivity, functionality, monitoring,
Management optimization, and more… You need to make smart
decisions about physical layout, space utilization,
Appendix 50 power, cooling, HVAC, (redundant) connectivity, safety,
security, risk mitigation... Designs needs to be capable of
Connectivity that matters 58 accommodating expansions and upgrades at short notice
Support that matters 61 and flexibly adapt to changing technology and business
R&M Worldwide 62 needs - without over specifying or overspending.

R&M are committed to supporting you in successfully

navigating these new developments, by sharing insights,
experience, and knowledge. Through this publication,
for example, which we hope you find helpful and
inspiring. Of course, if you’d like to discuss your specific
installation, requirements, or challenges, our experts are
here to help!

Enjoy reading!

3
 030.8684

Embracing the future

of Data Centers

AI, Augmented Reality, new work tools

and economic platforms… Digitalization
is changing our ways of living, working,
and doing business – and the Data
Center. Find out how new demands,
technological advances, and evolving
workloads will continue to affect DC
design, construction, operations, and
maintenance.

4 www.rdm.com 5
Embracing the future of
Data Centers
030.8684

i Pros Insights

Digitalization is having a profound As more businesses and individuals rely on digital Business Drivers Data Centers are changing
effect on technology, economies, and solutions, demand for data storage, processing, and
transmission is surging, requiring more servers, storage • Business KPIs and sustainability considerations are
societies, which is set to continue. From systems, and network equipment. Faster networking driving DC design and construction.
5G and mobile apps to IoT and Artificial solutions, 5G, and high-speed intra-DC communication
Intelligence, we’re seeing a change from technologies are becoming vital to handling data traf- • Ever-higher equipment density is changing rack
fic. Multi-Cloud and Hybrid Cloud Strategies require specifications significantly. For example, as tem-
‘analog’, ‘human-centric’ approaches to an integration with cloud environments, for seamless data Markets Strategies perature and weight increase, (Small Form Factor)
increasingly automated digital world. mobility and interoperability. Market Developments Customers’ changing connectors and cabling sizes decrease…
and new technolo- tech-driven business
As markets keep evolving, businesses must also adapt The processes and applications of today and tomor- gies today and in the strategies and execution • Changing architectures, densities and environmental
their approaches and operations. Digitalization is com- row need new architectures and design methods. A future goals are driving new developments in cooling. Do
pletely reshaping business strategies. Digital platforms robust, adaptable infrastructure will fully harness the you use gas, on-board, or liquid cooling? How do you
allow businesses to adapt to changes fast, such as speed and efficiency gains the digital transformation minimize energy usage and impact?
sudden demand surges and supply chain disruption. offers. This requires expansion of current data centers
Real-time data is helping businesses make instant de- and the construction of new ones. In DCs, the need • DC efficiency is typically measured in Power Us-
cisions. Digitalization enables new monetization strat- for high-performance computing needs to be balanced age Effectiveness (PUE). A PUE of 2 means that for
egies and business models. Processes are streamlined with identification and implementation of energy-effi- every watt of power used for computing, another
and businesses have new ways to target, reach, and cient practices. Balancing workloads, managing virtual watt is consumed for power distribution, cooling
engage with audiences. Working at home and on the go machines, and optimizing resource utilization are key to Processes Hardware and related processes. Conventional DCs have a
are here to stay. There’s a growing emphasis on building cost-effective operations. Business processes Hardware architecture in PUE value of 1.9 - almost half of the total energy
ecosystems, partnerships, and integrations with other and required software the DC (Servers, Switch- consumption is not used for the actual purpose -
platforms and services. applications es, Storage…) processing power. In Germany, existing data centers
must ensure a PUE no higher than 1.5 by 1 July
2027 (current average = 1.7).

6 www.rdm.com 7
 030.5882

Meeting Compute Network Challenges

Today and Beyond

A closer look Fit for purpose

As technology advances and workloads grow, the need A key challenge is ensuring your DC foundation is
to boost performance, scalability, efficiency, security, fit for purpose and assets are used and maintained
and sustainability becomes paramount. Adapting to optimally - without over-specifying or overspending.
evolving demands while ensuring seamless infrastruc- Requirements can change at any time, due to market
ture for a wide array of applications is key to business and technology developments, for example, so you
continuity and future-proofing Data Centers. can never copy previously successful designs.

DCs will continue to be affected by new demands, DCs house a vast number of physical assets, such as
technological advances, and evolving workloads. servers or networking and storage equipment. This
Adapting to ever-evolving requirements while contin- must work together optimally to avoid inefficient re-
uing to provide reliable and scalable infrastructure for source allocation, downtime, and security risks. Com-
a wide range of applications and services is a must for pliance with regulations and standards, which vary
business continuity and future-proofing DCs. depending on location and the data being stored and
processed, is required. Planning for unexpected events
Facilities of all sizes need to meet changing technol- is essential to minimizing downtime and data loss.
ogy and application needs. They must deliver higher
performance and (automated) intelligence to accom- Accurate asset utilization insights and capacity plan-
modate massive data growth, seamlessly integrate with ning are required to utilize resources as efficiently as
emerging technologies, and offer more capacity when possible, control costs, and ensure the highest degree
required. of sustainability. DC asset lifetimes need to be care-
fully managed in all phases and process design and
documentation should minimize risk of human error.
At the same time, however, the DC industry is facing a
shortage of trained staff…

Current requirements Future requirements

1 Processing power, memory capacity, I/O performance 1 Accommodate AI, Machine Learning, Edge, 5G

Memory management and hardware-assisted

2 2 Modular design for compute, memory, storage allocation
virtualization

3 Reduced operational cost and environmental impact 3 Enhanced security and data privacy

4 Protection against vulnerabilities and threats 4 More energy-efficient servers

5 Built-in redundancy 5 Hybrid and multi-cloud integration

8 www.rdm.com 9
 030.8676

R&M integrated
DC approach

10 www.rdm.com 11
R&M integrated DC How we help you reach your
approach KPI targets approach
030.7926

Up-to-date expertise One-stop-shop Non-compute solution offerings Integrated approach

Fast-moving developments of today and tomorrow R&M offers all `non-compute` elements in a single DCs are integral to future digitalization. IT architecture We ensure active equipment connectivity, space, tem-
require a new approach to the data center. Designing, portfolio under a software framework. Our ‘one-stop is essential this transformation. Based on thorough perature, humidity, and safety requirements are met,
building, and operation requires more than installing shop’ designs, builds, and delivers ready-to-use DC analysis of market and customer requirements we de- monitor their environment, and support Operation
hardware components – you need a fully integrated infrastructures encompassing Computing Rooms, fine DC Hardware architecture, encompassing Servers, Managers. Thanks to R&M’s integrated approach to IT
solution, including management. That requires up-to- Meet-Me Rooms, Building Entry, Campus, Data Center Switches, and Storage. We support solution design, infrastructure and its environment, servers and storage
date expertise and end-to-end support. Besides the Interconnect, and connection to network providers. implementation, and service, complemented by select- do exactly what they need to, today and tomorrow.
usual ‘compute’ elements, such as servers and switch- Modular infrastructure solutions integrate network ed partners’ non-compute solution offerings. Our DC solutions, including contributions from select-
es, you need the right ‘non-compute’ elements. That connectivity, rack designs, housing, cable management, ed partners, secure performance. That means you can
requires support with analysis, specification, consult- power, and DCIM. A Digital Twin can be available as hit every related KPI target, from speed and latency
ing, installation, service, and updates – while avoiding part of the package right from the start. performance to service levels and sustainability goals.
‘vendor lock-in’.
As DC operators expand halls, densify infrastructure, or
integrate applications such as ML, IoT, and 5G, they can
rely on R&M to understand challenges and pro-actively
suggest infrastructure solutions. We develop and test
everything in house and support implementation. Any-
thing we don’t make ourselves we obtain from trusted
partners. That means we can guarantee everything will
work from day one.

12 www.rdm.com 13
Our modular
approach

Easy scalability, lower cost, more efficiency Enhanced flexibility Understanding dependencies Team of experts
Modular Data Centers provide easy scalability, lower Modular design offers enhanced flexibility to accommo- It’s important that every single discipline involved in By assembling a ‘rainbow team’ of experts from all
costs, higher efficiency, and significantly shorter time date growth or changing requirements whilst provid- creating the data center works very closely togeth- relevant disciplines and appointing one single point of
to market. A Modular Data Center is, essentially, an ing an opportunity to spread investment costs over er and exchanges information in a highly structured, contact, we can take care of optimizing the modular
integrated, predesigned set of modules selected and time. Costs remain fixed until utilization increases, and standardized manner. Each individual competence area solution, regardless of the number of variations and
configured with possible expansion in mind, as well as depreciation can be managed in stages. All components is currently highly specialized and rapidly developing. product types, and the resulting complexity.
the possibility of downscaling or altering functionality of a prefabricated, pre-developed solution are highly Customization, for example, is too complicated to be
as and when circumstances require this. The DC is fully standardized. carried out by anyone but experts who understand all
functional from the outset but can be scaled as busi- the dependencies and variables.
ness develops or IT needs and processes change.
Anyone who needs to get up and running fast, or works
in an especially fast-moving market, could bene- fit When specifying and building a modular solu-
from this design approach. tion, dealing with multiple suppliers is practically
unavoidable. It makes sense to have one single
representative manage all parties and ensure
consistency, compatibility and interoperability of
processes and products.

14 www.rdm.com 15
R&M building blocks
How we can help

Full-range supplier Everything from a single source

As data rates and speed and distance requirements R&M designs and delivers Integrated Infrastructure
change, fiber is the only solution in more and more Solutions for every size, category, network architecture
applications. Copper cabling has its place in the DC, but and application. Our portfolio includes connectivity,
its limitations must be considered. More enterprise DCs cabling, rack equipment, housing, power, airflow, and
are being linked via fiber access and backbone net- DCIM and we know how it fits together. Infrastruc-
works. Some DCs are developing their own point-to- ture units can be delivered preconfigured and ready to
point optical networks to realize cost savings and meet install.
growing bandwidth and flexibility needs.
New topologies require comprehensive integration ex-
R&M is a full-range supplier with an integrated system pertise. We design (local) standards-compliant solutions
approach for fiber and copper cabling. Our range of DC and help you implement your own DC architecture
products and services offers you the optimal cabling ideas and approaches - right from the start. Our global
solution. This saves costs through shorter installation experts guarantee any solution specified will work as
and reconfiguration times, while keeping an eye on intended, securing your investment. An in-house supply
your future network requirements. chain and 14 R&M plants worldwide ensures modules
arrive directly at the data center at exactly the right
Our approach shortens provisioning time, minimizes moment.
unplanned downtime and infrastructure management
costs, frees up time for strategic activities, and ensures
an automatically documented provisioning process.

Infrastructure solutions Product categories

▪ Hyperscale ▪ Connectivity and Cabling

▪ Colocation ▪ Copper and Fiber
▪ Enterprise ▪ Racks and Housing
▪ Edge ▪ Rows and Cubes
▪ Telecom ▪ Sensors and Power Supply
▪ Internal Exchange ▪ Cooling and Fire-Protection
▪ Safety and Security
▪ Monitoring and DCIM

16 www.rdm.com 17
Servers Switches
Requirements Requirements

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it

Sw
Sw

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rag
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rv
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Se
Sto
Se

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Data Center server requirements R&M for servers Data Center switch requirements R&M for switches
DCs need vast processing capacity, memory, and I/O R&M’s proven high-quality server solutions include Today’s focus is on high throughput, low latency, high To meet today and tomorrow’s business demands, trunk
performance for continuous availability. This must be copper and fiber cabling. A broad, integrated prod- port density, horizontal and vertical scalability, robust cables as well as transition modules must provide a clear
supported by efficient memory management, hard- uct range includes solutions for cable routing, cable security, and redundancy. Power consumption and migration path to even higher speed Ethernet without
ware-driven virtualization, and automated and remote management, patching, and pre-terminated options, operational costs need to be reduced through smart increasing footprint. R&M switches offer features such
management. Highly data-intensive tasks, require high- designed to support data center server connections. design and operations, remote management, real-time as high port density, low latency, and high throughput to
speed connectivity. From an operational point of view, monitoring, and analytics. Demand for features such as support demanding workloads.
it is vital to reduce costs and environmental impact, and Our consultation and design services help plan and VLAN tagging, QoS, SDN and network virtual- ization
enhance scalability, security, and privacy. implement network infrastructure, from assessing re- is growing, and we predict similar growth in AI and ML, Advanced management and control features, such as
quirements and recommending appropriate solutions to customization, 5G traffic capacity, edge envi- ronments, Quality of Service (QoS) settings, VLAN support, and
Looking ahead, there will be more for compact, en- creating customized cabling designs and maintenance Hybrid / Multi-cloud support, 400 Gbps and higher traffic monitoring allow administrators to optimize the
ergy-efficient Edge Computing Servers and greater and service concepts. Solutions are optimized for the data throughput rates, and lower latency. network for different types of traffic and applications.
integration of 5G, AI, ML and hybrid and multi-cloud specific server hardware used and our ongoing research Compatibility and interoperability with a wide range of
environments. Modular flexible design and container- into new trends and developments allows you to make This will require enhanced authentication, authoriza- network equipment and devices from various vendors is
ized applications will be more important. informed infrastructure decisions. Our approach en- tion, network (micro)segmentation, analytics, telemetry, ensured and scalability, security, and support are all part
sures efficient, reliable data transmission and flexibility visualization, and dynamic environmental features. of the overall concept.
today and in the future.

Trunk Cables Transition Modules

Netscale Blade-Cabling Manager

Copper Cabling Fiber Cabling Cable Routing

Pre-Terminated Cabling Consultation & Design

Netscale 48 Netscale 72 Netscale 120

Click to explore the topics!

18 www.rdm.com 19
 090.7598

Storage
Requirements

ch
it
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Data Center storage requirements R&M for storage

Storage solutions must accommodate vast databases, R&M data center storage solutions encompass a wide
user data and I/O-intensive applications, with low laten- range of technologies and offerings designed to opti-
cy and hybrid / multi-cloud integration. There’s mize data storage and management within data center
a growing emphasis on scalability, management, data environments. Flexibility allows businesses
protection, security, and reducing power consumption, to accommodate growing amounts of data without ma-
environmental impact, and operational costs. jor disruptions. As the amount of data and storage re-
quired continues to increase, Data Center managers are
Innovative applications and market demands require looking to implement faster backup and retrieval speeds,
advanced support for IoT, AI, machine learning, data better scalability to add more storage, and overall better
growth, higher performance, and Quantum Computing. flexibility and manageability.
Features such as decentralized and distributed storage,
edge/core/cloud links, unified management of on-prem- Our Storage Area Network (SAN) solutions can transmit
ise and cloud resources, self-healing and automatic vast data volumes between servers and storage de-
failover will become more important. vices with Fiber Channel. R&M supports use of QSFP
optics on its Netscale platforms, including the Netscale
Blade-Cabling Manager for modular switches.

Netscale 48 Netscale 72

20 www.rdm.com 21
Discover R&M’s integrated
ultra-high-density platform
Click to explore the topics!

More info

090.7603 030.6656 030.8517 090.5389

Netscale 120 Netscale 72 Unirack2 & Fiber Easy2 Raceway systems

1U and 3U Netscale housings provide user-friendly, This solution offers a migration path to higher-speed Unirack2 and Fiber Easy2 19” rack patch panels feature Raceway systems with their flexible and modular
flexible ultra-high-density connectivity when combined Ethernet for trunk cables and transition modules with- innovative quick-mounting technology and modern design provide all-round protection for optical fibers.
with Netscale modules, cassettes, harnesses, trunks, out increasing the footprint, this ensures versatility and lightweight construction for easy handling. They offer fast snap-in assembly, seamless expan-
and patch cords. The world’s densest fiber solution future-proofs your investment. It excels in patch cable sion, and retrofit capabilities, reducing installation and
offers a 67% higher density than similar systems. It management and documentation, providing flexibility maintenance costs. Plus, they guarantee a 30 mm bend
provides unparalleled cable management through the for both Base-12 and Base-8 setups. radius.
Re-Cabling Manager. This ultra-high-density platform
includes infrastructure management features. It also In a compact 1U space, it achieves exceptional density
features the smallest diameter uniboot patch cable, with 72 ports per rack unit, supporting up to 72 MPO
which saves time and effort during cabling. The uniboot connections. It’s adaptable to various cable types and
connector allows for push-pull operation and access fiber counts, even allowing splicing a 144-fiber ribbon
from any angle. Drawers can receive modules or cas- cable onto a 12-port MPO cassette.
settes from both the front and rear.

030.7485 030.5796 030.6231 090.5641

Netscale 48 Netscale BCM Prime ODF RDM-FOXS

This versatile mixed media patch panel combines A versatile solution for both vertical and horizontal PRIME optical distribution modules are compact and This modular approach accommodates common LC
copper and fiber connections in a single rack unit. modular slots. It eliminates the need for cable routing versatile, ideal for tight spaces and high fiber densities. and SC connectors across various platforms and the
It’s accessible from any angle, available in 1U with 48 on the side of the cabinet, thanks to pre-configured A tool-free, highly modular system for easy installa- Single Circuit Management (SCM) system, enabling use
ports. Integrated cable management, labeling options, staggered cabling that matches port spacing. This tion and uncomplicated migration into new or existing of loose tube, blow-in, micro, and mini-cable options.
and high-density FO adapters are included. It supports allows for direct cabling paths from switches to patch network infrastructures. These modules are easy to It offers straightforward operation and swift assembly
various connec- tivity types, including LC, MPO, SC, panel ports, whether they are located above or below. combine, extend, and swap, supporting up to 192/384 with minimal tool requirements, ensuring smooth and
E-2000TM, Cat. 6, Cat. 6A , Cat. 8 for copper, and high fiber connections in 3U or up to 2,688/5,376 connec- high-density fiber management on all platforms. More-
fiber counts like SN, CS, MDC, and MPO16. The panel tors in a 2.20 m PRIME ODF rack. over, the connectors undergo 100% testing to ensure
is also inteliPhy AIM- ready, allowing for seamless ex- transmission reliability and network availability.
pansion during operation.

22 www.rdm.com 23
Optical transmission
i Pros Insights

Parallel optics transmission

Parallel optic transmission is employed in data centers
to meet the increasing demand for high-speed,
high-bandwidth connectivity over short distances. This
technology involves transmitting multiple optical signals
(or lanes) simultaneously over multiple fibers or wave-
guides. Parallel optics offers several benefits:

High data rate Aggregate bandwidth

Parallel optics supports Parallel optics can
extremely high data rates, aggregate bandwidth,
such as 40 Gbps, 100 by transmitting multiple
Gbps, or even higher. lanes in parallel.

Short distance Multiple signals

Parallel optics is optimized By transmitting multiple
for typical short-distance signals over individual
DC connections, such as fibers, use of resources
links between servers, is maximized.
switches, and storage
devices within a rack or Power efficiency
030.8074 between adjacent racks. Parallel optics technol-
ogy can enhance power
Scalability efficiency.
Modular design allows
easy scalability. DCs can Standardized
Single Mode Optical Transmission Multi-Mode Optical Transmission add lanes or connections Standardized parallel
Single-mode fibers are mainly used for long-distance, Suited for shorter distances where signal quality is less to accommodate growth optics form factors,

03 0.7273
high-speed communications where minimizing signal critical, such as short campus connections or in build- without significantly recon- such as QSFP and OSFP,
loss and dispersion is paramount. These fibers have the ings. Multi-mode fibers are less suitable for long- haul figuring infra - structure. are widely adopted in
capability to transmit data over extensive distances, applications because dispersion and signal loss become the industry ensuring
ranging from tens to hundreds of kilometers, with mini- significant over longer distances, with minimal signal Low latency compatibility and
mal signal degradation. degradation. Parallel optics can offer interoperability.
low-latency communi-
cation due to the short Various architectures
distances involved. Parallel optics can be
Core diameter: Core diameter: used in various data
Typically, around 8-10 micrometers (µm) Typically, around 50 or 62.5 micrometers (µm). center network archi-
tectures, (spine-leaf, fat
tree, hyperconverged…)
Light source: Light source: supporting different
Laser diode - a single wavelength of light, resulting LED or lower-cost laser diodes which emit a connectivity needs.
in a narrower beam that travels in a straight line broader spectrum, resulting in multiple modes of
down the fiber core. Only one path is taken by the light propagating through the core simultaneously.
light rays. This minimizes dispersion and allows for This leads to higher dispersion and modal distor-
longer transmission distances with minimal signal tion.
loss.

030.5908

24 www.rdm.com 25
 030.7485

Copper connectivity
Still room for innovation

In the DC, copper data cables, which

remain robust and easier to install and
terminate than fiber cables, can be used to
transmit data at speeds of up to 10 or 40
Gbps.

Copper can be used to connect servers in racks and What’s more, copper Ethernet cabling supports Pow-
link switches and transfer data at high bandwidths (100 er over Ethernet (PoE). Copper can transmit data and
Gb/s over 8 meters). For decades, multi-gigabit Ether- simultaneously supply up to 100 Watts of power to
net over twisted-pair copper has been widely used as devices. PoE (especially PoE+ and PoE++) is increasingly
transport cabling for shorter runs at server, switch and being used power a wide range of networked devices in
top of rack layers. Partly because copper can be easily the DC, reducing the need for separate power cables.
and effectively terminated on site, is cost-efficient, and Numerous devices in the Data Center, especially IoT-re-
requires less power and cooling. Capital savings really lated sensors and actuators and building infrastructure
add up in DCs, in short links where the highest speeds components, need power and a data connection but
aren’t necessary. don’t require fibre-speed data transmission.

New PoE standards

increase power delivery by utilizing all
four pairs of wires in Ethernet cables,
supporting advanced devices and
technologies such as advanced IoT
sensors and smart lighting. Innovations
in shielding techniques and materials
will help ensure signal integrity and
minimize EMI.

Cat 8
offers high performance, achieving
data rates of up to 25 Gbps over short
distances: ideal for high-speed LANs
and DCs upgrading from Cat 6A
and Cat 7. Furthermore, evolu-
03
0.
tions of Cat 8, such as Cat 8.1
59
7 2
and Cat 8.2, are expected to
provide even higher data rates
and improved performance.

030.7592 These standards will likely be designed

to support emerging applications and
technologies.

26 www.rdm.com 27
 041.0727

Rack and Containment

Support for ever-growing weight and density

Racks currently need to be designed for

efficient space usage, accommodating
more and more servers and networking
equipment in a compact footprint.

The focus is on cable management solutions, cooling Going forward, racks will need to accommodate even
efficiency, effective power distribution, power man- more higher-density hardware, such as GPUs, AI accel-
agement, security, redundancy and monitoring and erators, and advanced liquid and air-cooling solutions
management. Load-bearing capacity needs to support that can manage heat from power-hungry equipment.
the weight of increasingly dense servers, storage, and Increasingly, support will be required for modular de-
networking hardware and should be easily scalable to signs to accommodate changing equipment and work-
accommodate growth and equipment requirements. load demands, and edge computing. More intelligent
power management options, including dynamic load
balancing and granular power controls, advanced envi-
ronmental monitoring, and enhanced physical security Comparing steel and aluminum solutions
features will be required.
for data center racks

Steel Aluminum

High strength and durability, suitable Less dense than steel, resulting in
Strength and Durability for heavy equipment and high load lower overall strength.
requirements.
Heavier, making installation and Lighter and easier to handle.
Weight
maintenance more challenging.
Generally, more cost-effective. Often more expensive due to the
Cost cost of the raw material and manu-
facturing processes.
Lower, advantageous in dissipating Higher, which can help in heat
Thermal Conductivity heat and preventing hotspots. dissipation but might contribute to
thermal conduction.
Susceptible to rust and corrosion, Better corrosion resistance.
030.8719

Corrosion Resistance especially in high humidity or expo-

030.8524
sure to moisture.
More design customization options More challenging to weld, may
Customization and Design due to ease of fabrication and have limitations in terms of design
welding. complexity.
Electrical Interference (EMI) Better EMI shielding due to high er Lower magnetic permeability, may
Shielding magnetic permeability. offer less effective EMI shielding.

28 www.rdm.com 29
Cabinet, infrastructure housing
and containment solutions

Freenet 19” cabinets with 1200 kg load BladeShelter Data Center Technologies
capacity
The modular data center infrastructure
Save space, time and resources while platform for low-energy consumption
enjoying maximum flexibility. datacenters with high thermal loads
Our heavy-duty, modular cabinet design opens up Our
heavy-duty, modular cabinet design opens up countless BladeShelter combines R&M’s DC equipment experi-
possibilities in data centers. Cabinets need to be easily ence with R&M Tecnosteel’s design know-how.
customizable to specific user needs. Our extensive
range of accessories offers all you need to optimally Innovative enclosure design contributes to efficient
equip your Freenet cabinet system. From cable man- cooling by strictly separating and optimally conditioning
agement solutions to storage compartments and fans hot and cold air streams. BladeShelter makes it easy to
- we have the right accessories to optimize your cabinet plan, install and operate tailor made, flexible DC infra-
for your individual requirements. Your equipment is op- structures while saving costs and energy. The program
timally cooled - our cabinets accommodate all common- offers energy-efficient in-row cooling systems and
ly used ventilation systems. scalable blade cooling modules. They are designed for
high heat loads up to 42 kW.
Specially designed for heavy loads with 800 kg
1
to 1200 kg load capacity. 1 Proven 19” cabinets
Comprehensive modularity for low logistics
2 and storage costs
2 Enclosures for hot and cold aisles

030.8700
Effortlessly expand functionality with easy
3 customization.
3 Complete cubes for computer rooms

070.5099
Prepared for built-in fans and cooling units
4 Expand with R&M DCIM, fiber connectivity and HD
with closed loop/open loop architecture 4
patch panels / distribution frames
5 Easily retrofittable
5 Cabinets with loads up to 2000 kg
Available as a flatpack version: easy to trans-
6 port and assemble on site.
030.7968 030.8660 090.7809 030.8677

7 Optimal heat dissipation

Height
42U to 48U
More info
Width
600 to 800mm Intelligent PDU Sensors Monitoring systems Air conditioning
030.7934 030.7924 030.8524
Depth
800/100/1200mm

Access control Smoke control Top-of-rack power Cable ducts

distribution
More info

30 www.rdm.com 31
 030.8677

Cooling
Aligning with sustainability goals

Today’s DC cooling solutions need to

optimize airflow patterns to ensure even
distribution of cool air to IT equipment and
effective removal of hot air.

Hot and cold aisle containment strategies help isolate Solutions will continue to focus on innovative technol-
hot and cold airflows. Precision air conditioning pro- ogies, efficient heat removal, intelligent management,
vides targeted cooling to specific areas, minimizing en- and sustainability. Granular temperature and humidity
ergy wastage and ensuring temperature control. Other data from sensors will enable more precise cooling
key requirements include options for lowering energy control. AI and machine learning algorithms, passive
usage, for example with varispeed fans, real-time moni- cooling, hybrid cooling, and liquid solutions, such as di-
toring and analytics to optimize cooling, prevent issues, rect-to-chip and immersion cooling, are becoming more
and support backup strategies. important to managing heat generated by high-per-
formance computing and GPUs. Cooling solutions will
Cooling systems increasingly require real-time moni- also need to address the unique challenges of modular,
toring and analytics to optimize performance, detect edge, and hyperscale data centers.
anomalies, and reduce power consumption.
Increasingly, liquid cooling solutions, IoT, and AI and
machine learning optimized cooling will be required to
manage high-performance computing heat. Further
areas of interest are solutions tailored for edge DCs,
scalable modular cooling, and heat recycling.

Rack
030.7914

Cooler

↑ (Fig.1) Row cooling closed

loop example

32 www.rdm.com 33
 041.0727

Power solutions
Smarter all the time

DCs require significant power. Voltage is

transferred from the grid using cabling
designed to minimize heat and maximize
power distribution. DCs should have
sufficient redundancy to continue service
uninterrupted when power fails. i Pros Insights

Lead-Acid Batteries vs Lithium-Ion Batteries

Securing uninterrupted power supply in a DC involves are becoming increasingly important to track UPS bat-
a combination of strategies and technologies, includ- tery health and anticipate replacements. Energy storage Pros Cons
ing Uninterruptible Power Systems (UPS) with backup technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries, are being ex-
batteries, Static Transfer Switches (STS), redundant plored to enhance UPS capabilities and extend runtime. + Cost-effective − Heavy and bulky
power, backup generators and other solutions. DCIM Intelligent PDUs are increasingly used to monitor power
can monitor power usage, track equipment status, and consumption, distribute loads evenly, and prevent over- + Widely available − Limited Cycle Life means reduced overall lifespan
predict issues. Advanced battery monitoring systems loading.
+ Fairly simple maintenance, including periodic
− Slower charging rates
electrolyte level checks and voltage adjustments
+ Withstand deep discharges without major damage - − Lower energy density: less energy stored per unit of
suitable for applications requiring deep cycling weight or volume.
+ Familiar technology makes it easier for technicians − Toxic materials pose environmental and health risks
to work with and diagnose issues if not properly managed and recycled

Power Distribution Uninterruptible Power Static Transfer Switches Data Center Infrastruc-
Units (PDUs) Systems (UPS) (STS) ture Management (DCIM)
Intelligent PDUs provide Ensure uninterrupted power STS enables seamless DCIM software monitors
comprehensive power con- during outages by providing switching between power power usage, equipment Lithium-Ion Batteries vs Lead-Acid Batteries
sumption monitoring, uni- sufficient capacity, conduct- sources like UPS, utility, or status, and predicts issues
form load distribution, and ing regular tests, and offering generators, with dual-path to ensure uninterrupted data Pros Cons
prevent overload issues. redundancy options like N+1 options for enhanced re- center operations during
or 2N configurations for dundancy and failover. power disruptions. + High Energy Density: more energy stored in a − Generally, more expensive upfront compared to
seamless power continuity.
smaller and lighter package lead-acid batteries
− More complex management systems to prevent
+ Long Cycle Life: longer lifespan with a higher num-
overcharging, over-discharging, and thermal runa-
ber of charge-discharge cycles
way
+ Lightweight and Compact, making them suitable for − Can be prone to overheating, swelling, or catching
portable electronics and applications fire under certain conditions

Redundant Power General Backup Battery Monitoring Energy Storage Solutions + Fast Charging: less downtime and improved user − Lower energy density: less energy stored per unit of
Sources Generators can deliver pro- Advanced battery moni- Energy storage technologies,
convenience weight or volume.
Connecting multiple power longed power support during toring systems track UPS such as lithium-ion batteries, + Low Self-Discharge rate: charge retained for longer − Environmental concerns: require careful disposal
sources enhances data extended outages. Regular batteries’ health and help an- bolster UPS capabilities and
periods when not in use and recycling
center equipment reliability, maintenance and testing are ticipate timely replacements. extend operational runtime.
especially when using feeds vital to ensuring consistent + Usable in wide range of applications: consumer
from different substations operational readiness of electronics, electric vehicles, renewable energy
or utilities to mitigate simul- generators.
systems etc.
taneous failure risks.

34 www.rdm.com 35
PDU

A Power Distribution Unit (PDU) in the DC

plays a critical role in distributing electrical
power to servers, networking hardware,
and other equipment. Selecting the right
PDU can be critical for efficient DC
operation, manageability, and scalability.

There are several ‘must haves’ and nice-to-haves’ when

it comes to choosing a PDU for your DC. Build quali-
ty, remote, monitoring, and regulatory compliance are
essential. If your specific DC application requires it, it is
worth investing in temperature, humidity, and airflow
sensors. If additional redundancy is required, automat-
ic failover and dual power inputs are recommended.
Monitoring and switching capabilities can also bring
significant advantages.

R&M ActiPower 4.0 rack power distribution

unit (PDU)
Designed to meet the needs of demanding data center
and computer rooms worldwide. ActiPower offers you
the industry’s smartest, highest availability power moni-
toring distribution Unit.

1 Patented IEX socket allows full PDU usage all the time.

2 Less downtime due to hot-swappable communication card

Good to know:
3 Up to 70% energy saving with bi-stable latching relays
The patented IEX socket ( with IEC/EN and UL
Easy maintenance: outlet offers any combination of C13/ C19 safety certifications) can hold C14 and C20 plugs,
4 for maximum flexibility. IEXv.5 PDU is manufac-
tured with the most advanced hot-swap, field
5 Redundant access thanks to two 1GB Ethernet ports replaceable SNMP IP controller. It has two 1
Highest security 256-bit AES encryption, Radius, SNMP v3, Gigabit Ethernet ports, a full color OLED screen,
6 user permissions, SSHv2, SSL, HTTPS cascading multi-sensor ports, enhanced securi-
ty, sophisticated alarming and power monitoring
7 Safe and reliable operation up to 60°C across the whole power chain. Its highly reliable
hydraulic-magnetic circuit breakers are not af-
fected by ambient temperature and support delay
curves appropriate for IT-equipment.
More info

36 www.rdm.com 37
UPS

An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

is a critical component, providing stable,
reliable power to data center equipment,
even in the event of power outages or
main power supply fluctuations.

Its main function is to ensure that servers, networking

devices, and other critical DC infrastructure receive
continuous power to operate without interruption, thus
preventing data loss, system crashes, and downtime.

UPS systems typically clean and condition incom-

ing power from the main utility source, filtering out
noise, voltage spikes, sags, and other irregularities that
could potentially damage sensitive equipment, and are
equipped with batteries that store electrical energy.

NETYS RT
This single-phase UPS series provides complete rack
or tower protection for IT systems such as servers and
networking devices, structured cabling systems, control
systems, switching, and edge solutions. NETYS RT is
easy to set up - no configuration is required upon initial
launch.

1 Switchovers to battery mode are intelligently minimized

2 Full performance is maintained up to 40 °C

3 Range of communication protocols

4 IoT ready device for access to connected services.

5 Hot-swappable modular battery extension

6 Fast recharge - even for very long back-up time

7 Li-Ion battery technology ready

38 www.rdm.com 39
STS

A Static Transfer Switch (STS) is a solid-

state device that allows instantaneous
transfer of electrical loads between two
power sources. If one source fails, the load
is quickly switched to a secondary source
to minimize downtime.

An STS can ensure that DC operations remain unin-

terrupted. This is crucial for maintaining a high level
of service availability. It can help with everything from
energy efficiency to regulatory compliance and increas-
ing redundancy. In instances of fluctuations in power
quality, such as voltage dips and peaks, it can switch
sources, making operations more resilient.

STATYS XS
The Statys XS (Automatic Transfer System) features
two independent power supply circuits supplying
power to the load. In the event of a power failure in the
main circuit, the Statys XS automatically switches to the
other circuit to supply power to the load. The system
automatically switches back to the main circuit after
power is restored.

1 Competitive single-corded alternative to redundant power supply

2 Fast transfer time without source overlapping

Good to know:
3 Compact enclosure saves valuable rack space Particular care must be taken in choosing the right
STS - especially in the transition period between
4 Easy and quick connection of loads via multiple IeC 320 outlets using UPS standard IEC 62040 and the proper
standard IEC 62310. Thanks to performance
5 Hot-swappable extraction and replacement of control / power unit definition and safety devices, such as backfeed
protection, an IEC 62310 compliant STS ensures
6 Easy to use from front panel operation reliability and protection.

7 Remote management via LAN (sNMp) & Real-time monitoring (Rs485).

40 www.rdm.com 41
 030.8217

Fire protection
Increasingly proactive approaches

Fire risk in DCs is a significant concern due

to the potentially devastating impact on
operations, data integrity, and equipment.

Even if data is backed up remotely, the time it takes to Fire-resistant coatings protect structural elements and
restore systems can result in data being temporarily cable pathways. Tight integration with building manage-
unavailable - a huge issue for real-time services and ment systems facilitates coordinated responses to fire
databases. incidents.

In safeguarding data centers against fire risks, different Fire detection systems will increasingly incorporate
strategies and technologies are essential. As part of a advanced technologies such as AI, thermal imaging,
fully integrated approach, DCs require advanced fire IoT, video analytics, and remote monitoring and control
detection systems, automatic fire suppression systems, for more accurate and early detection. Data analytics
redundant fire protection systems, emergency response can help predict fire risks, enabling even more efficient
plans and procedures, training and drills. Fire-resistant proactive prevention measures.
barriers and walls preventing fire spread between zones
and protect critical infrastructure.

42 www.rdm.com 43
Fire protection
Mitigating risk of harm to the installed base
Fully

Fire detection in a data center is critical to ensuring can also introduce risk. Also, if a great deal of cooling is

Burning intensity
the safety of both equipment and personnel. It is also needed as a result of material or infrastructure choices,
essential for minimizing downtime and potential damage it can be harder to detect fire or find the causes. development
to critical business operations. Redundant detection Human error, bad handling, poor maintenance and de-
methods and alert systems should be in place to avoid fective installations or equipment introduce further risk. Smouldering

a ‘single point of failure’. The earlier a fire is detected in

the DC, the greater the opportunity to prevent damage. Different types of sensors (such as smoke detectors,
heat detectors or sprinkler systems) each need to
However, several factors can make timely detection detect fire at different times and at different stages.
harder, or increase the level of risk. Large numbers of Coordination is vital. Placement of the detection solu-
electrical components can lead to overvoltage, short tion in the data center is also relevant. The better they
Time
circuits, leakage currents, arcs and high heat radiation. are positioned - in the middle of the normal air flow -
If there is insufficient ventilation, consequences can be the earlier they can identify changes.
Very early Early Normal
serious. Infrastructure and materials (such as plastics)

EN 54-20, class A EN 54-20, class B EN 54-20, class C,

EN 54-7
Sensor

i Pros Insights

Benefits of fog-based fire suppression By mitigating the drawbacks of gas and water-based
Fog-based solutions rely on a fine mist of water drop- methods, fog-based systems emerge as a compelling
lets or water-based solutions to extinguish fires. choice for data center fire extinguishing. In environ-
Mist is created by forcing water through nozzles or gen- ments where safeguarding critical equipment and data
↑ Intelligent smoke detectors erators, producing small droplets that quickly evaporate. is paramount, fog technology proves its prowess
This process cools the surrounding area and displaces
oxygen, effectively and rapidly suppressing fire.
Smoke

This approach can be tailored to specific DC layouts

and requirements and brings several additional benefits, Good to know:
such as minimal water damage and corrosion risk, no In safeguarding data centers against fire risks, dif-
residue and cleanup, and lower environmental impact ferent strategies and technologies are essential.
than gas-based solutions. Quick reset means faster
restoration of DC operations. Fog-based fire suppres-
sion uses less water than traditional systems, can be
Sensor
integrated with other fire detection and suppression
systems, and is safe for people.

Sensor

44 www.rdm.com 45
Data Center Infrastructure The most up-to-date Data
Management Center infrastructure and
Today and tomorrow’s requirements DCIM available today

i Pros Insights

As DCs connect more hardware, R&M’s network infrastructure solutions build tomorrow’s data centers of through
monitoring operational aspects of servers, manageability, scalability, and flexibility. We support you with extensive knowledge and
switches, cooling, power equipment and know-how of centrally managed physical infrastructure and high-performance network
other linked IT hardware becomes harder. cables. Our experience working closely with companies around the world gives us a
first-hand understanding of your DCs complexities. At present, we see three key drivers
affecting data center design and requirements.

Challenges Developing requirements for DCIM Solutions

DCs face the challenge of maintaining extremely high DCIM solutions will be pivotal in further optimizing
levels of availability, whilst significantly improving data center operations, improving efficiency, and ensur-
efficiencies and lowering costs. DCIM plays a vital role ing availability of critical IT services in a changing
in this. DCIM systems are indispensable for providing technology landscape. As more functionality is moved
real-time monitoring and visualizations of critical infra- to the cloud, we’re seeing more cloud based DCIM
structure, including power, temperature, humidity, and systems appearing. Increasingly, a key driver for DCIM Data volumes Speed Distance
airflow. IT and non-IT assets, including servers, switch- is the need for information to forecast capacity re- Global data is expected to surpass ‘Traditional’ 400G data centers are The growing adoption of high-speed
es, cables, and physical spaces, can be tracked effi- quirements. DCIM solutions need to accommodate the 180 zettabytes by 2025, with 127 insufficient for modern applications networking technologies has led
ciently for efficient management and maintenance. unique challenges of edge computing, such as remote new internet-connected devices such as Hyperscale, edge, and cloud data centers to employ shorter
locations, limited space, and varying environmental added every second, potentially facilities. DCs have been upgrading cable lengths for intra-rack and
Space, power, and cooling resources can be optimized conditions. generating 79.4 zettabytes of data from lower Ethernet speeds (e.g., intra-row connections, preserving
with capacity planning tools. Monitoring and analyzing by 2025. This surge in devices 10 Gbps) to faster options like 800 signal integrity and minimizing laten-
energy consumption and efficiency help data centers AI will play a significant role in analyzing data patterns poses scalability challenges for data Gbps, often using two separate cy, particularly for high-performance
identify opportunities to reduce power usage and and providing actionable insights for predictive main- center operators, necessitating more wavelengths to achieve 1.6 terabits computing and applications. As data
operational costs. DCIM systems can predict potential tenance, performance optimization and sustainability. servers, space, connections, power, of capacity. This shift is facilitated centers deploy faster switches and
issues, enabling proactive maintenance and minimizing Integrating IoT sensors will provide more granular data cooling, and redundancy manage- by single-mode and multimode fib- servers, optical breakout cables
downtime. Robust change management features ensure for enhanced monitoring and control. Advanced algo- ment, calling for scalable solutions ers, along with modulation advance- have seen increased use. Addition-
accurate documentation and compliance. rithms can automate resource allocation, cooling, and across all aspects of data centers. ments, enabling higher data rates ally, higher-density switches and
workload placement for optimal efficiency. Digital twin over longer distances. Concurrently, patch panels, which offer more
technology can be used to create virtual replicas of the improved CPU technology enhances ports in a compact space, demand
physical infrastructure for testing scenarios and opti- computational capabilities within thoughtful cable management and
mizing operations. data centers. routing strategies.

46 www.rdm.com 47
030.7166
 030.6656

DCIM

R&M inteliPhy net is an easy-to-operate

DCIM solution for asset, capacity and
change management. Users organize
and document the entire network
infrastructure digitally.

inteliPhy net 4.0: a transparent software

solution for centralized DCIM
The program bundles and visualizes all information Furthermore, users can create their own metamodels
on capacities, cabling, patch panels, racks, PDUs and with inteliPhy net 4.0. A metamodel can represent a
IT equipment in a single database. Component rep- pre-configured device with various plug-in cards or a
resentations can be added and moved by dragging and completely assembled and wired cabinet. One simple
dropping. Together with RFID-based monitoring system step is all it takes to integrate a complete metamodel
R&M inteliPhy, the program monitors all ports and into an existing data center. Time-consuming con-
patch cords in real time. Network managers can ensure struction of cabinets from individual components is no
they are utilizing resources and satisfying quality, com- longer necessary.
pliance and service requirements. Areas of application
include colocation, edge and enterprise data centers. inteliPhy net 4.0 contains tools with which Optical
Distribution Frames (ODF) can be configured and vis-
ualized. This function is suitable for planning the setup
of 19” and ETSI-based meet-me rooms. The software
inventories the IT equipment and applications. A pow-
erful global search function for quickly finding specific
devices rounds out the feature set of inteliPhy net 4.0,
optimized both in terms of performance and ease of
use.

Good to know
The software is used to plan maintenance work
or MAC processes, create reports, and complete
audits. inteliPhy net 4.0 generates work orders,
distributes them, and monitors their execution.
050.7137

Works great with

More info
Netscale 48 Netscale 72 Netscale 120

48 www.rdm.com 49
 090.7590

Appendix
Network topologies

Spine-leaf architecture
Spine-leaf architecture (or Clos architecture) is a popu- Spine-leaf architecture offers a robust, adaptable net-
lar design approach to building modern DC networks. It work foundation for data centers, providing the per-
provides a scalable and efficient way to handle increas- formance, scalability, and reliability needed to meet the
ing data traffic and ensure low-latency connectivity. demands of today and tomorrow.
In a spine-leaf architecture, devices are organized into
two layers: the spine layer and the leaf layer. Each leaf
switch is connected to every spine switch, creating a
non-blocking, high-bandwidth network topology.

Reduces latency Scalable High bandwidth Network performance

The minimized number of Highly scalable design allows High Bandwidth between Predictable and consist-
packet hops reduces laten- easy addition of devices, devices ensures efficient ent network performance
cy and improves applica- racks, or pods without af- communication even in thanks to a non-blocking
tion performance. fecting performance. high-traffic scenarios. design.

Built-in redundancy Simplified management Virtualization tech Flexibility

Built-in redundancy and Changes can be localized to Support for virtualiza- Various spine-leaf configura-
resilience ensure network specific parts of the network. tion technologies, to tions allow customization to
failures do not disrupt meet demands of current fit different data center sizes,
overall connectivity. applications and virtual requirements, and growth
workloads. plans.

50 www.rdm.com 51
Traditional Spine-Leaf Multi-Pod Spine-Leaf

Data Center A Data Center B

Spine
Switch

Interpod Network

S
IPN

Spine
Spine
Spine
Switch
Leaf Switch
Switch

S
L

L
Spine
Leaf Leaf
Switch Switch

Leaf L L L L L L L L
End Device
(Server) Leaf
H

H
End Device
(Server)

030.8680
030.8681
Servers Servers

↑ Each leaf switch connects to ↑ Multiple spine-leaf clusters

every spine switch, forming a (pods) are interconnected to
fully meshed network. create a larger DC network.

Low-latency Scalability High bandwidth Resilience Enhanced scalability Better redundancy

Predictable, low-laten- Devices or racks can be High bandwidth between failures in one part of the net- DCs can scale horizontally Better redundancy and disas-
cy performance (traffic added without disrupting the any two devices, as there work do not affect function- by adding more pods as ter recovery as pods can be
routed through a minimal overall network are multiple paths available ing of the entire network needed. deployed in different physical
number of hops locations

52 www.rdm.com 53
Centralized Spine-Leaf Fat Tree Spine-Leaf

et Spine
ern
Int Switch
Router

S
EP EP
VT VT
S

S
Spine
Peer

S
Link

S
iStack Peer SVF
EP EP EP Link EP EP EP
VT VT VT VT VT VT

L L L L L L
Leaf End Device
(Server)

H
H

030.8683
030.8682
Servers

↑ A central spine layer connects ↑ Extending the spine-leaf concept

multiple leaf layers, often used into a fat-tree topology adds
for smaller-scale deployments. redundancy and scalability.

Simplified management Cost-effective Enhanced scalability Improved scalability

Easier to manage and mon- Cost-effective for smaller Multiple paths between This approach allows for
itor in smaller data center deployments while still pro- devices improves network further expansion and more
environments. viding good scalability. resiliency. devices.

54 www.rdm.com 55
Selecting copper DC Next steps for copper
cabling today cabling

i Pros Insights i Pros Insights

Remote Power Categories Resistance Unbalance Testing Cat 8.1 and Cat 8.2 cabling solutions deliver higher Cat 6A cabling is designed to support higher data rates
ISO/IEC 14763-2 and EN 50174-2 cabling standards One challenge PoE introduces is the issue of resistance data rates and enhanced performance to accommodate and bandwidths than Cat 6, making it suitable for
have been extended to include Remote Power supply unbalance. In a PoE system, power is transmitted over the demands of emerging applications and technolo- applications such as 10GBASE-T Ethernet and beyond.
categories RP1, RP2 and RP3. These new categories a minimum of two pairs of wires in an Ethernet cable. gies. In response to diverse connectivity needs within Cat 6 compensation schemes aim to mitigate effects
define requirements prior to installation and after com- However, if there is an imbalance in the resistance be- data centers and networks, hybrid cabling solutions interference that can occur at higher frequencies (such
missioning to keep cabling and PoE running safely. The tween wires in a pair, or between pairs, unequal current seamlessly blend copper and fiber optics, providing the as signal attenuation or crosstalk).
RP category is determined by the maximum allowable distribution may occur in the baluns* of the Ethernet necessary flexibility.
average DC current in a cable bundle - the higher the transceivers and, as a result, saturation effects in the The goal of these compensation schemes is to have
rating, the higher the permissible current. Complying ferrite cores of the balun can lead to disruption of the Additionally, as data rates rise and electromagnetic excellent process control in the RJ45 plug (patch
with the ‘Remote Power’ (RP) categories is of great data transmission. Consequently, when using remote interference challenges become more prevalent, ad- and production) as well as in the connection module
importance for fulfilling warranties and preventing power supply (PoE), resistance symmetry is an absolute vanced grounding practices, including precision ground- compensation Only by filling components with superb
expensive, time-consuming equipment replacements precondition. It is, therefore, vital to measure this and ing and bonding techniques, are essential to ensure process control is it possible to guarantee consistent
and repairs. ensure it remains stable throughout every channel, end unwavering reliability in network infrastructure. high-performance transmission.
to end.
According to ISO/IEC 14763-2, an RP category must
be specified for each installation. Planning and product Resistance unbalance in cables may increase heat
selection must support that category. Each cable in a generated in a cable and invalidate RP3 certification.
bundle must be able to fully support the highest PoE Therefore, thermal stress can only be managed if this i Pros Insights
level. Assurance that the cable bundle will not overheat resistance imbalance is kept to a minimum. Although
is essential to category RP3 compliance. With RP3, ISO 11801-1 (6.3.3.7. Direct current resistance unbal- Cat. 6 compensation schemes
cabling is setup during the planning phase, so that all ance) defines maximum resistance unbalance figures, it
cables can transmit the maximum PoE current simul- does not require this element to be tested.
taneously. This makes the system very safe. In RP3
cabling, the attenuation budget for data transmission
should always be respected and permissible temper- Magnetic
ature in the cable should not be exceeded. This can flux D
CE “Bad plug”
AN
be achieved in part by managing bundle sizes, proper AL (32 dB)
UNB
component selection, and adjusting link lengths to the
installation. No
“Nominal plug” “Super plug”
signal
Data (37 dB) (41 dB)
pair ED
C
LAN
BA

Cat. 6A
Eq ur er
pm g

t
ui cin
en
So w
o
P

050.7395

Cat. 5A
Et
he
rn
et
Tr
an
sc
ei
ve
r

Under compensation Ideal compensation Over-compensation

If the plug is too low of quality the Aims to provide a balanced and consist- If the plug doesn’t provide enough
connection module cannot compensate ent signal response across the entire crosstalk, the connection module com-
No for all the crosstalk. The connection is frequency range of Cat 6A cabling. This ponents will make overall performance
saturation -
Signal “OK” not over Cat5. involves precise engineering of the worse. The connection is Cat5..
components to ensure mini- mal signal
loss and crosstalk, resulting in reliable
↑ Magnetic saturation
and predictable performance.
effects in the balluns
030.7366

56 www.rdm.com 57
 090.7602
030.5882

Connectivity
that matters

58 www.rdm.com 59
Connectivity that Support that matters
matters

Network technology from R&M guarantees Project success is determined by the network of project It includes evaluation, configuration, customizing,
decisive advantages. Users experience the partners. The best data and communication networks logistics, installation training and measurements.
are the result of good collaboration. That is why R&M R&M also supports partners on site in downstream
benefits when they install cabling systems resolutely forges close partnerships all over the world. tasks such as infrastructure management. The global
from R&M effortlessly and when they use Whether for individual projects and markets or for R&M network comprises proprietary sales offices and
infrastructure solutions from R&M for permanent, comprehensive commitment. Ideally, R&M specialist consulting, plants, warehouses as well as
starts off by advising investors, general contractors, certified distributors and partners. R&M products are
generations without interruption. planners and installers on the special issues of the available locally to partners and customers in more than
project. Subsequent support extends from the design 100 countries.
High-end since 1964 to the commissioning of the network.
R&M has been developing and manufacturing high-end
connecting and distributive technology since 1964.
R&M customers around the world use it to design fu-
ture-proof data and communication networks for public
and private applications.

Independent Swiss family company

As an independent Swiss family company, R&M is one R&M Cube, the company’s state-of-the-
art headquarters in Wetzikon, Switzerland
of the world’s leading suppliers of infrastructures for
telecom networks, data centers, offices and building
automation. R&M covers the entire range of cop- Lead: R&M makes partners Expertise: R&M certifies Warranty: R&M provides security
per-based and fiber optic connectivity. The system ap- insiders professionals R&M assumes joint responsibility within
proach integrates support, design and turnkey concepts Planners, project managers and install- Network and cabling professionals take the scope of its international warranty
for sites, buildings and housings. Software for network ers gain practical insider knowledge in part in the R&M Academy Qualified program. It includes a 25-year system
management rounds out the portfolio. workshops and webinars. R&M provides Partner Program (QPP). They receive warranty and a lifetime application war-
information on technologies, solutions exclusive certifications. QPP partners ranty for fully tested cabling.
and standards. The participants share receive comprehensive technical
Connecting people and businesses their experiences. support for their projects.
Connectivity that matters represents decisive progress.
With great innovation, R&M provides unlimited and re- In 1964, Reichle & De-Massari AG (R&M) The garages and homes of the Reichle
was founded by Hans Reichle & Renato family in Wetzikon and the De-Massari
liable network infrastructure that connects people and De-Massari. family in Pfaffhausen served as offices,
workshops and warehouses.
businesses across the world. Together with certified
partners, R&M carries out pioneering work.

Superior performance
Clients who opt for R&M invest in sustainably reliable,
scalable and migration-capable infrastructures. The Quality Innovation
result: networks with guaranteed, measurably superior Every bit reaches its goal Excellent and effortless
performance. wiring Sustainability: R&M represents Success: meaningful case study
values publications
Global reach System warranty Protection of investment R&M maintains the balance between R&M continuously documents case
R&M tailors its product offerings and performance Lifelong commitment Install just once and enjoy economic, ecological and social interests studies in informative reports. The case
precisely to the needs of its customers. With 14 plants permanent use on the basis of exemplary ethical values. studies developed together with part-
at international locations, logistics hubs, sales organiza- Ever since it was founded, sustainability ners and customers give valuable insight
has shaped the family business. The into network technology for interested
tions and technical consultants, R&M remains close to Customer focus Sustainability
plan is to halve CO2 emissions by 2030, parties around the globe.
its customers on every continent. Responsible experts on site Man, nature, and the market
and to achieve full climate neutrality by
in harmony
2050.

60 www.rdm.com 61
 050.7152

R&M - worldwide
From project planning to operation

R&M Headquarters
R&M Manufacturing
R&M Sales Offices

Global network
R&M supports projects from start to finish: The worldwide network of proprietary companies
from network planning, via installation, to and certified partners provides the foundation for the
greatest possible customer proximity. Products and
ongoing operation. Personal service and solutions from Reichle & De-Massari are locally availa-
numerous satisfied customers worldwide ble in more than 100 countries. The company’s branch-
give you the security of knowing you are es in Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, North and
Latin America together with partners guarantee that
working with the right partner! the sales/distribution, installation, and maintenance of
R&M solutions around the globe take place quickly and
that local customer requirements are satisfied.

62 www.rdm.com
Headquarters
Switzerland
Reichle & De-Massari AG
Binzstrasse 32
CH-8620 Wetzikon

www.rdm.com
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try on our global website.

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