Data Center Futuristics: Make Way for the Robots!

Robots are making their way into the modern data centers at Google and Amazon. While they aren’t mainstream yet, the rumors are already starting regarding the number of jobs that can be eliminated due to these sleek silent machines. While on the one hand, there is a possibility for humanity to grow and to lead better balanced and meaningful lives with mechanical tasks being automated, on the other hand, there is the possibility for increased conflict, chaos and insecurity if this move is not planned and executed properly.

Amazon is the first to spearhead this game-changing phenomenon. Robots are already in use in Amazon’s warehouses and now have made their way into their data centers. Some of the key advantages to having these robots in the data centers include:

• Vertical scalability: Robots do not have the same height limitations as humans do. With space constraints becoming a key factor in managing costs, robots can climb much higher and faster so server racks can be mounted vertically instead of horizontally.
• Lights Out: There can be significant costs savings on electricity as an automated data center can eliminate all the infrastructure needs that are specifically in place for “humans.”
• Robots in Security: A new trend has started where the physical security of data centers is now handled by robots. The robot is vigilant, adaptable and, best of all, cannot be bribed or corrupted.
• Energy Efficiency with Automated Data Collection: IBM has revealed that they have 9 robots in their data centers globally. These robots are moving about the data center floor and recording humidity and temperature measurements. This gives important information on areas that can be optimized and cooled or heated more efficiently.

The future of robots in the data center looks super exciting. But, at Lifeline Data Centers, we also care about our people. We always want to make our data centers more efficient without compromising the human touch our employees bring to our operations.

For more information, contact us today.

Alex Carroll

Managing Member at Lifeline Data Centers

Alex, co-owner, is responsible for all real estate, construction and mission critical facilities: hardened buildings, power systems, cooling systems, fire suppression, and environmentals. Alex also manages relationships with the telecommunications providers and has an extensive background in IT infrastructure support, database administration and software design and development. Alex architected Lifeline’s proprietary GRCA system and is hands-on every day in the data center.