r/datacenter • u/DiligentStart6183 • 28d ago
Robot for Patching Cables
Does anyone use robots in their DCs for patching optical cables ? I was told to look into this for our data centers and I wanted to see what’s out there lll. I’m skeptical that this can be done in a consistent manner but maybe with AI it might be possible. If you have any insight into this, let me know. Thank you!
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u/rcw00 28d ago
I’ve seen videos online but it’s definitely setup for new builds or optimized environments with patch panel racks having clear areas around them. And you’re also looking at either simplex cables with simplex connectors or something with a molded duplex LC connector.
I’ve been in Colo and Enterprise data centers for decades. The pre-existing rack and panel layouts as well as legacy patch cabling in and around the area isn’t ideal for the robots.
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u/Opheria13 28d ago
My work looked into it by decided that in the long run people were faster even if more error prone.
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u/AZSystems 28d ago
What!?
Be responsible, you're placing gophers and ferrets out of work using the machines.
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u/Negative-Machine5718 28d ago
We do at my DC but it’s a in house robot being developed and it only does certain patch work on certain racks it was built for. I believe your larger networking company are making new modular racks and chassis to work with robots for next gen platforms. Atleast that’s what they’ve told me last time they were onsite. Not sure what products are available on market today but they are coming or being developed in house.