Precision testing for hollow core fibre networks
29 December 2025
EXFO has unveiled the industry’s first hollow core fibre (HCF) optimised OTDR (Optical Time Domain Reflectometer) equipped with bi-directional testing capabilities.
This innovative device is specifically designed to enhance the reliable testing of data centre interconnects supporting AI applications, offering high-precision measurement of HCF networks. This breakthrough is part of EXFO’s broader portfolio of hollow core fibre-capable testing solutions, aimed at accelerating the adoption of HCF technology, which promises to revolutionise network performance through higher speeds, lower latency, and greater reliability.
Find out more Gallagher Security launches Command Centre v9.40
18 November 2025
Gallagher Security has announced the release of Command Centre v9.40, a major update to its flagship site management platform designed to support increasingly complex and high-density access control environments.
Gallagher continues to push the boundaries of innovation with this new version, which introduces advanced features for the Controller 7000 product range, including smarter maintenance tools, expanded door support, and future-ready architecture.
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Navigating data centre battery selection
14 November 2025
Dr Thomas Verghese, Business Development Manager; and Wouter Vink, Director of Sales, Africa, EnerSys
Selecting the right batteries for Africa’s data centres involves understanding application-specific needs, local energy infrastructure, and sustainability considerations.
Lead acid batteries, especially advanced TPPL technology, remain popular due to their safety, reliability, and familiarity within the region. Power outages and unreliable grids, notably in South Africa, make dependable backup solutions essential to avoid costly downtime. Effective system management — proper specification, installation, and maintenance — plays a key role in maximising battery performance and lifespan. Reliability takes precedence over lifespan, as data centres require unwavering assurance that batteries will perform during outages.
Find out more Master Power’s real-time vision driving African data uptime
12 November 2025
Matthew Bezuidenhout,
Electrical Control, Monitoring,
Installations Manager, Master Power Technologies
Why is remote monitoring and analytics increasingly essential for data centres?
Remote monitoring and analytics are critical for improving efficiency, ensuring uptime, and maximising return on investment. The African data centre landscape differs from Europe in several ways particularly in terms of the availability of skilled on-site personnel, access to spare parts, and general infrastructure reliability.
In the early days of the telecom boom, Africa’s rack densities and power demands were relatively low, so outages were more tolerable. But as the continent has rapidly advanced, the technology has evolved faster than the local skill base and parts supply chains.
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