Three challenges for colocation facilities in scaling operations based on market demand

Colocation facilities are becoming a strong alternative to large, on-site data centres. Projections indicate that the global colocation market will increase by more than 14% annually through 2030.

Colocation centres offer benefits such as reduced operating costs and greater ROI by renting IT server racks and computing space. They can also reduce computing and data processing downtime by using state-of-the-art infrastructure for power and cooling.

However, colocation centres face challenges in scaling operations based on demand. Here are three key challenges and how Rittal colocation solutions can help.

1. Long Deployment Cycles
Customised IT infrastructure with the right amount of server racks and computing space can lead to increased lead times and prolonged deployment cycles, hampering a colocation’s ability to scale quickly.

Rittal’s modular approach reduces deployment cycles by simplifying the installation and configuration process. Their IT enclosures, cooling units, and accessories can be modified on-site without specialised tools.

For example, Rittal’s colocation racks TS support high cable density without internal obstructions, making high-density wiring and cable configurations quick and easy. This reduces the time and resources needed to customise IT infrastructure for various applications.

2. Lack of Standardised Solutions
Colocation centres often struggle to accommodate standardised solutions that can be modified for specific IT footprints. Standardised IT solutions designed with flexibility can meet most colocation requirements and support a wide range of cable and component densities.

Rittal’s colocation racks TS feature a standardised design with full-depth adjustable front and rear EIA rails, a full-size slide-in removable partition, and a standard hardware kit that allows quick baying of the enclosure.

This approach allows for greater flexibility within the cabinet, supporting high cable and component installation densities and maximising internal rack or wire configuration customisation.

3. Harsh or Demanding Installations
Optimising infrastructure footprint while controlling costs and maximising revenue includes moving server racks into harsher, uncontrolled environments. Establishing IT infrastructure in these environments is problematic due to the lack of durability and protection in many IT enclosures.

Partnering with Rittal helps colocation centres overcome these challenges and create flexible, versatile, and powerful IT computing centres. Learn more about our colocation solutions to optimise your IT computing infrastructure.