ASHRAE Journal - October 2021 - 48

COLUMN DATA CENTERS
In traditional systems, data center traffic is primarily
client to server transactions, which is supported by a
three-level tree network architecture.
Alternately, in cloud computing and distributed blockchain-based
systems, the network traffic of modern data
centers is increasingly server-to-server, which is better
handled by a spine and leaf network architecture. This
spine and leaf design is optimized for blockchain and
increased data processing demands.
Blockchain that enables cryptocurrency and other
promising technologies will depend on data centers'
ability to meet rising demand in communications bandwidth,
computing power, storage and security.
Therefore, data centers may expect to go through multiple
upgrades in their lifetime to meet emerging technology's
needs while staying financially competitive and
futureproof.
Increased power demand, additional fiber connections
and backbone cabling upgrades are examples of
required hardware changes that can be expected.13,14
In terms of software changes, service providers started
using blockchain technology and offering services such as
Asure Blockchain (Microsoft), Managed Blockchain Services
(Amazon), Cloud Pak (IBM) and others. From a future point
of view, these are still in their early stage of development.15
It is only a matter of time when the cryptocurrency
acceptance that was discussed in the first column will
become more relevant, enabling business opportunities
and reaching far beyond what fiat (traditional) currency
can offer in terms of accessibility, security, transparency
and transaction cost and efficiency.
All of the above depends on available decentralized
network infrastructure that data centers will continue to
play a key role in; therefore, planning for upgrades and
offering new services shall be a necessary part of service
providers' agenda.
Developments of this type of innovation will enable
prosperity and expand innovations even further beyond
the current baselines. This, in turn, will ensure demand
for cloud-based services, continued growth in data center
size and complexity and foster the industry change
required to meet these coming challenges.
1946
2021
What began in 1946 as Russell Coil Co., manufacturing coils for the
refrigeration and air conditioning industry, has grown 75 years later into
a premiere brand of award-winning commercial refrigeration equipment.
The company introduced the All-Temp Unit Cooler in 1948, which quickly
became the industry's all-purpose, low profile unit cooler for small to
medium walk-in coolers and freezers. It has undergone several redesigns
through the years to increase efficiencies, performance and serviceability
but still remains a top performer today with the Next-Gen All-Temp. Russell
has a wide array of unit coolers, condensing units, condensers and other
equipment specifically designed for commercial refrigeration applications.
We want to thank our partners, sales representatives, and customers for
their business all these years and for making Russell a trusted brand.
Join us in celebrating 75 years of innovation. Visit Russell75.com/A
for a walk down memory lane and to enter our Russell Vintage Models Contest.
48
ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.o rg O CTO B E R 2 0 2 1
Russell
Vintage
Models
Contest
STILL KEEPING IT COOL
AFTER ALL THESE YEARS
Looking for the oldest,
still working Russell Unit
 Top Prizes will be awarded to the
three oldest working Russell units
 Enter for a chance to receive
a commemorative Russell
75th Anniversary bundle
and a $1,000 VISA®
Gift Card
 Submit your entry today at
Russell75.com/A
http://www.Russell75.com/A http://www.Russell75.com/A http://ashrae.org
ASHRAE Journal - October 2021

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of ASHRAE Journal - October 2021
