Here, There, Everywhere
Data centers are in the news every day, but exactly what are they, and why are they being talked about so much? Test your knowledge of data centers.
1. What we call data centers today used to be known as ________ or ________.
Correct Answer: Computer centers
Both terms have been used in IT and cabling standards in the past
Correct Answer: Equipment rooms
Both terms have been used in IT and cabling standards in the past
2. Today, what we call data centers are used for ________.
Correct Answer: All of the above
And even more sometimes
3. Functionally, a data center is like a(n) ________.
Correct Answer: Library
Data centers function like a library—storing data (books) and providing them to users
4. Data centers used for A.I. computing are sometimes now being called “A.I. factories,” a more appropriate name.
Correct Answer: True
These data centers are where AI is created
5. In most data centers, cables connecting the servers, switches and storage are using ________.
Correct Answer: Single-mode fiber optics
As link speeds have increased, single-mode fiber has become the media of choice.
6. A hyperscale or A.I. data center may have as many as ________ fibers connecting servers, switches, storage and A.I. processors.
Correct Answer: Hundreds of thousands
Maybe even into the millions….
7. Data centers are being criticized for their ________.
Correct Answer: All of the above
Data centers need power and cooling and take up lots of space.
8. In a data center, as much electrical power is needed to power the ________ as the electronics.
Correct Answer: Air conditioning and cooling
The electronics generate a lot of heat which must be removed by AC.
9. Data centers consume so much power that owners have been pushing for nuclear and fusion power.
Correct Answer: True
Yes, classic fusion reactors and even hoping for fusion power.
10. Technology changes so fast that data center upgrades can happen in as little as ________.
Correct Answer: 1.5–2 years
Technology still doubles speeds every 1.5-2 years.
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