Data centers are crucial to modern technology. Some data centers provide IT support to external clients, but many organizations also decide to maintain their own data centers to support internal operations. In either case, every data center has several essential tools that should be readily available to the staff maintaining and operating such a facility.
Cable Tester
Cables can last a long time, but they might not last forever. Having a cable tester available helps staff know which cables are still good and which ones need to be replaced. Sometimes, a cable will still be functional but problematic, and testing it directly might be the only way to truly know what’s going on inside.
Cage Bolts
Data centers keep a lot of things inside cages, even if it’s often just their servers. Cage bolts keep everything in safe and secure positioning. However, they can get lost or worn down, so having replacements means being able to protect everything as need be. No one likes losing bolts so having extra is always good. While you are stocking up on cage bolts, it would be wise to get other sorts of computer bolts. The more the merrier.
Cordless Drill
The last thing a data center ever needs is more cords. A cordless drill is something that the staff can carry around and use without creating a tripping hazard or needing an outlet nearby. It’s not just a matter of convenience but also physical safety. If a drill doesn’t suit your data center, consider splurging on some nice screwdrivers. While they may not be as fast as a cordless drill, they are very reliable. Make sure they have the magnetic tips for ease of use.
Patch Leads
Any data center is going to have lots of different electronic and digital devices that need to be connected with optic cables. Patch leads are necessary to make those connections, so having a good supply on hand keeps operations going. Make sure they are of good quality and have the proper lengths.
Cable Crimping Gear
Laying out cable that is too long just wastes space and materials. Being able to crimp the cables means coming up with custom lengths that fit the specific layout of the data center precisely to keep things clean and neat.
Label Printer
With so many different parts and pieces in a data center, there has to be some way of keeping everything organized. That is especially true when you consider how all the cables might look the same but do very different things. So get a portable label printer that way you can also label any changes or replacements.
If you manage a data center, then you need to make sure that these essential tools are available to everyone who needs them in your facility. On the other hand, if you just work in a data center, being the person that knows where all these are or keeps them on hand can make you someone indispensable to keeping operations going steadily.
Bio: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn't on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on twitter: @RachelleWilber
