Rosenberger OSI Relocates 500 IT Systems for Helmholtz Munich

Rosenberger Optical Solutions & Infrastructure (Rosenberger OSI) has completed the transfer of approximately 500 servers, switches, and IT components for Helmholtz Munich to a colocation data center. Designed to minimize downtime for the German Research Center for Environmental Health, the project encompassed the initial inventory, dismantling, secure transport, as well as the reassembly and recabling of all hardware. Comprehensive documentation of every port, cable, and connection served as the foundation for this critical migration.

Traceability and High-Precision Logistics
To guarantee a flawless reinstallation, the project team first mapped the existing infrastructure by recording cable lengths, power supply connections, and port links. Each piece of equipment was assigned to a specific location (rack and unit) in the new data center. During dismantling, heavy hardware was handled using lifts, secured onto Euro pallets, and transported via trucks equipped with air suspensions. Visual inspections and photographic documentation ensured rigorous tracking of the equipment's condition at every stage of the transfer chain.

Recabling and Risk Management
At the new site, the systems were reinstalled and recabled using new fiber optic and copper links. The documentation database was updated in real time to reflect the exact routing validated on-site with the client. From the preparation phase onward, risk management protocols were established, including on-site technical support and immediate fallback solutions in the event of any failure. According to Stephan Riechmann, Senior Project Manager at Rosenberger OSI, the success of such an operation relies on this meticulous preparation, allowing every system to be reconnected with absolute accuracy on the very first try.

Additional Context: The Challenges of Optical Recabling in Colocation
This section details technical specifications and industry analyses not included in the original project report.

During a migration to a colocation data center, reusing old patch cords constitutes a major risk to network reliability. Handling used fiber optic cables during a move can introduce micro-bends or microscopic contamination of the connectors (dust, scratches) that can severely degrade the optical link budget. In ultra-high-speed network architectures (100G, 400G), the slightest increase in attenuation (insertion loss) or reflectance can cause unacceptable bit error rates. By choosing to recable all 500 systems with brand-new cables, integrators ensure not only that transmission performance meets strict tolerances, but also optimize cable routing to enhance thermal cooling airflow within high-density racks.

Edited by industrial journalist Lekshman Ramdas, with AI assistance.

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