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Keeping AI Computing Cool with Bob Wagner

Keeping AI Computing Cool with Bob Wagner

Update: 2025-10-08
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(00:00:00 ) The Importance of Infrastructure in AI Computing

(00:04:53 ) Challenges of Power Consumption in AI

(00:11:11 ) Retrofitting vs. New Data Centers for AI

(00:20:28 ) Optimizing Power Distribution for High-Density Racks

(00:25:10 ) Emerging Cooling Technologies for AI Workloads

(00:29:22 ) Structured Cabling Solutions for AI

(00:35:59 ) Future-Proofing Data Centers for AI Adoption

(00:38:21 ) Motivation and Passion in AI Infrastructure



In this conversation, Todd Reed speaks with Bob Wagner, Senior Development Manager at Panduit, about the critical infrastructure supporting AI computing. They explore the challenges of power consumption and heat generation in data centers, the importance of optimizing power distribution, and the emerging cooling technologies necessary for managing AI workloads.

The discussion also covers the differences between retrofitting existing data centers and building new ones, the role of structured cabling in simplifying installations, and strategies for future-proofing data centers to meet the demands of AI. Bob shares his passion for innovation and problem-solving in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI infrastructure.

Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.

To get a hold of us here at Keepin’ The Lights On, please email: podcast@graybar.com

Thank you to our sponsor, Panduit:  https://www.graybar.com/manufacturers/panduit/c/sup-panduit?utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=Ep+61+AI+Cooling&utm_campaign=podcast-main-page&utm_id=PodcastPanduit

To reach Bob Wagner on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-wagner-57a5b46/

Learn more about Panduit: https://www.graybar.com/manufacturers/panduit/c/sup-panduit?utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=Ep+61+AI+Cooling&utm_campaign=podcast-main-page&utm_id=PodcastPanduit

Meson Sabika (Spanish Tapas): www.Mesonsabika.com

Hesed House, a shelter for the unhoused in Aurora, IL: www.hesedhouse.org

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wKU1tu7yJIA

Takeaways Distribution is crucial for the infrastructure of AI computing.
AI computing is leading to unprecedented power consumption challenges.
Retrofitting existing data centers for AI is complex and requires careful planning.
High-density racks require optimized power distribution solutions.
Emerging cooling technologies are essential for managing heat in AI workloads.
Structured cabling solutions can simplify installation and maintenance in data centers.
Future-proofing data centers involves planning for power and cooling needs.
The demand for AI is driving innovation in data center infrastructure.
Collaboration and planning are key to addressing the challenges of AI computing.
Passion for problem-solving drives innovation in AI infrastructure.
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Keeping AI Computing Cool with Bob Wagner

Keeping AI Computing Cool with Bob Wagner

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