ICT Today — October/November/December 2023 (Vol. 44, No. 4)

Foundations for Tomorrow.
FROM THE BICSI CEO
Members
John H. Daniels, CNM, FACHE, FHIMSSProfessional DevelopmentProject ManagementStandards & Compliance3 min
Emerging ICT Design and Construction Processes
COVER ARTICLE
Members
Nick LarkinsThe ICT design industry has seen significant advancements over the last two decades. Early onboarding of ICT design teams allows for a holistic approach to the design and integration of ICT systems to streamline processes and provide cost-effective solutions and timely results. Different technologies, including building information modeling (BIM), data-driven design/specification LEAN concepts, and prefabrication can help, and every opportunity should be taken to maximize efficiency in an industry dealing with a shortage of talent.Network Design14 min
The Imperative Trinity: The First Three Essential Considerations of Technology and Information Transport Design and Planning
Feature
Members
Justin W. HobbsIn all of technology and information transport design and planning, there are three essential considerations for an information transport systems designer to be aware of and advocate for: space, electrical, and pathways. This “Imperative Trinity” constitutes the bedrock foundation on which all technology exists, and these three key facets should be considered first in every design and thought process.Data Center DesignNetwork Infrastructure17 min
Optimizing Data Center Efficiency, Availability, and Planning with Predictive Power Modeling
Feature
Members
Ashish MoondraData centers account for a significant percentage of the world’s energy consumption and are now facing pending regulations that make sustainability initiatives increasingly important. Simultaneously, power consumption in the data center is increasing due to heightened demand for more digital services and technology advancements that generate more data and require more power. Thus, the industry will see predictive power modeling combined with other emerging technologies to improve efficiency and availability.Data CentersEnergy EfficiencyPower Distribution11 min
Building Greener High-Performance Networks: How Optical LANs Can Support Sustainability in the Digital Era
Feature
Members
Gayla Arrindell, John Hoover, Jeff Van HorneToday, the need for networks that deliver greater bandwidth capability, distance, and sustainability is more important than ever before. Optical LAN (OLAN) technology offers numerous benefits for organizations striving to meet sustainability building goals or meet corporate environmental, social, and governance objectives. OLAN occupies less space, promotes less energy consumption and carbon-intensive materials than copper-based LAN, and significantly reduces carbon footprint.Data CentersEnergy EfficiencyFiber OpticsNetwork InfrastructurePower over EthernetSustainability14 min
The Human Element of Connectivity
Feature
Members
Gwenn AmiceApplications of artificial intelligence (AI) dominate public discourse, but will the technology replace the need for people and their knowledge and experience? While AI and automation may help alleviate the skills gap, it is unlikely to replace human solutions. The physical aspects of networks require human expertise, and no amount of virtualization will change this reality. Organizations must invest in training and education to attract and retain talent—even as technology continues to evolve.Artificial IntelligenceCable TestingNetwork OperationsProfessional Development8 min
The Perfect Storm—“New” Technology Paving Way To “Power Over Everything” Technology
Feature
Members
Jeffrey Beavers, Brian EnsignNew technological applications are driving the need for high-performance and high-value cable, and the focus on sustainability and efficiency goals has resulted in a need for increased power levels and building networks that transmit data and power at the same time. Associations like BICSI and NECA have teamed up to address the transition from high to low-voltage applications through education and training.Fault Managed PowerPower DistributionPower over EthernetSmart BuildingsStructured Cabling7 min

October 2023