How AI Is Transforming Data Center Design: Power, Cooling, and Connectivity

In this episode of the Data Center Frontier Show, Matt Vincent, Editor in Chief of Data Center Frontier is joined by Scott Eischens, Product Manager, Global AI Fiber Solutions at CommScope and they'll discuss how AI networks are driving dramatic changes in data center design, especially around power, cooling, and connectivity. Modern GPU-powered AI data centers require far more energy and generate much more heat than traditional CPU-based setups, pushing cabinets to new power densities and necessitating advanced cooling solutions like liquid direct-to-chip cooling. These environments also demand significantly more fiber cabling to handle increased data flows, with deeper cabinets and complex layouts that make traditional rear-access cabling impractical.

To keep pace, the industry is shifting to front-access cabling, allowing easier installation and maintenance while power and cooling infrastructure occupy the rear. Modular, pre-configured cabling solutions help streamline deployments and support rapid scaling, even as labor resources are stretched. As AI workloads continue to grow, future-proofing data centers means embracing flexible connectivity and upgradeable designs that can adapt to evolving technology needs.

Listen now to learn more!