Data centers face unprecedented challenges due to the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI). In order to run AI workloads, particularly those that involve deep learning and large language models, lots of computational power, specialized hardware, and advanced cooling solutions are needed.

When operators retrofit their existing facilities to meet these needs, enlisting the expertise of a professional consultancy with a comprehensive portfolio of data center solutions and services may be a time- and cost-efficient way to ensure you are getting the most out of your investment. The expertise they bring to the table enables them to collaborate with operators to build modular solutions which simplify upgrades, improve efficiency, and future-proof operations for AI deployments.

The Infrastructure Challenges of AI Workloads

Power consumption for AI processes, especially those running on GPUs and TPUs, is significantly higher than for traditional computing processes. The amount of power required by an AI server rack can surpass 80kW, compared to less than 10kW for traditional setups. As the power density surges, several challenges arise:

Power Delivery – High-performance AI hardware requires high-capacity, stable power distribution and rack power distribution units rated for high density environments.

Cooling Demands – Power-hungry AI processes generate high amounts of heat for long periods of time, requiring advanced cooling solutions to maintain indoor temperatures that support facility safety and operations, and hardware longevity.

Space Constraints – Adapting existing data centers for AI hardware often requires reconfiguring the floor space, power distribution, and cooling pathways. Modular solutions offer space savings, minimal disruptions, and therefore more cost and time savings.

Monitoring & Efficiency – Real-time power monitoring and environmental monitoring are critical for preventing downtime, detecting potential issues, and maximizing energy consumption.

When AI deployments lack the right infrastructure, they may incur high operational costs, shorten hardware lifespans, and lead to unexpected system failures.

The Solution: Customizable AI Pods for Efficient Retrofits

Instead of overhauling a large facility, a data center consultant knowledgeable in AI infrastructure can suggest pre-configured AI "pods" that include:

High-Density Cabinets: A high-density cabinet is one of the most integral components of a data center - it needs to be able to outlive the equipment it houses and have enough space for future configuration changes. With a fully modular design, Legrand's cabinets offer all these features and more, with a variety of cable management options, airflow management, and PDU mounting options. One of the best features of this cabinet is that it effectively separates hot and cold airflows to reduce energy consumption and improve cooling performance.

Reliable, Efficient Power Distribution: Track busways by Starline, a brand of Legrand, simplify overhead power distribution by eliminating cable clutter under the floor and even raised floors. With this system, power planning is simplified for future expansions, due to its easy customization for most environments, plug-and-play functionality with minimal disruption, and flexibility to add tap-off units at any point.

Intelligent rack PDUs with Power Monitoring – Rated for temperatures up to 60°C, smart rack PDUs PX4 by Raritan and PRO4X by Server Technology, both brands of Legrand, offer intelligent power distribution for high density environments. Using High Density Outlet Technology, more outlets have been built into a PDU, allowing racks to power more at lower cost. Both PDU models also feature 0.50% power metering accuracy as well as advanced power monitoring capabilities, providing real-time insight into equipment health and critical power quality. Built into these PDUs, a proprietary Xerus technology stack and IX controller enable plug-and-play compatibility with third-party sensors, and DCIM for alerts, data analytics, and remote access.

Advanced Cooling Systems – Retrofit scenarios often require energy-efficient, easily scalable cooling solutions with a small footprint - and ColdLogik rear door heat exchangers by USystems check these boxes. With these cooling solutions attached to cabinets, raised floors are no longer needed. They are also effective as add-ons for ambient cooling in smaller setups with existing CRAC systems, making temperature control more affordable without the need to overhaul the facility’s temperature control.

Environment Sensors – Aside from temperature sensors, humidity, airflow, and moisture sensors are conditions data centers must monitor in the event of hotspots, fires, or uneven cooling to ensure maximum equipment performance and longevity. For these purposes, Raritan offers SmartSensors, easily connected to intelligent PDUs, to provide data necessary for overseeing current operations, and planning future capacity and strategy.

As AI continues to push data centers beyond their power and cooling limits, operators must adopt more flexible infrastructure strategies. Customizable AI pods - backed by expert consultancy - offer a streamlined, cost-effective way to retrofit facilities to handle next-generation AI workloads. With these pods, data center operators can retrofit existing data centers without undergoing costly full-scale changes, reduce deployment time, minimize downtime during upgrades, and reduce PUE (Power Usage Effectiveness); all while leaving room for scaling up with future business needs and demands.