Legrand, a global specialist in electrical and digital building infrastructures worldwide, has debuted the Remote Plug-In Actuator, the newest creation from their brand Starline. As data centers worldwide adapt to escalating power densities driven by end-user demand for high-performance computing (HPC) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) development, Starline’s Remote Plug-In Actuator would enhance safety and operational efficiency, leveraging Starline’s Track Busway technology.
Rack power densities are reaching previously unheard-of heights due to the unrelenting quest for ever-more-powerful CPUs, as reported by SDxCentral. The Uptime Institute stated that, just over ten years ago, average power densities per rack ranged from four to five kW. However, by 2020, that amount had increased to eight or ten kW per rack. With 10% of data centers reporting rack densities of 20-29 kW per rack, 7% reporting 30-39 kW per rack, 3% reporting 40-49 kW per rack, and 5% supporting densities of 50 kW and more, the figures had increased once again by 2022.
As power densities continue rising in data centers, ensuring operator safety would become increasingly important. It could be essential to find practical ways to reduce any possible risks without sacrificing uptime. In response to the need for even greater operator safety, Starline’s Remote Plug-In Actuator that comes with its Track Busway technology could represent a fitting solution.
Security in Data Center Operations
Facilities managers have been able to install Legrand’s Starline Track Busway plug-in devices for more than 30 years by using a manual twist-and-lock method that allows for mechanical connection and electrical grounding. With the help of Starline’s Remote Plug-in Actuator, plug-in units can now be remotely engaged in the busway via fiber optic cable for maximum isolation or secure Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to operate outside of the incident energy area (up to 30 feet/10 meters for Bluetooth connectivity), increasing uptime and safety.
“We acknowledge the changing nature of data center operations, where security is the top priority,” said Starline’s Director of Product Management, John Berenbrok. “Our Remote Plug-In Actuator embodies our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that prioritize safety while boosting operational flexibility.”
By allowing customers to install or replace plug-in devices while the busway is operational, this cutting-edge Starline equipment would enhance uptime initiatives and reduce maintenance downtime. It is positioned to simplify and make data center operations safer all throughout the world because to its user-friendly design and seamless interaction with Starline Track Busway technology.
