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ServerLIFT donation helps UA Data Center improve safety and efficiency

The University of è���������� data center recently received a donation of a brand new ServerLIFT SL-500C,  a server handling lift. The donation improves safety and efficiency by doing the heavy lifting of servers and computer equipment at è����������’s largest data center.

“The University of è����������’s data center is the technological heart of the è����������,” said Derek Ward, Manager of the Office of Information Technology Data Center. “From human resources to è���������� courses and the è���������� Earthquake Center, the data center provides that information needed so all parts of the è���������� can run smoothly. The ServerLIFT makes it possible for the data center to complete installs with just one operator on shift.”

A server handling lift is used to install or move servers and other networking equipment into racks in a data center. The equipment can weight hundreds of pounds, requiring a team of people to transport, install or remove servers in the data center.

“The donation will enable this small team to make significant progress,” said Steve Bashkin, ServerLIFT’s Director of Sales. “While serving major clients, the University of è���������� is run by a professional staff. Up until now, they’ve been forced to complete projects with the help of an inadequate, warped data center lift. This team will now complete their assignments on time and move their heaviest equipment quickly, without additional problems.”

Previously, the UA Data Center was using a manual-assisted lifting device that maxed out at 400 pounds and was no longer stable. The antiquated equipment and smaller staff meant that sometimes projects were delayed and operators and servers were at risk for injury.

“For the first time, the data center can complete installs with just one operator on shift,” said Ward. “We have faced a reduction in resources, specifically staffing. We are very grateful for this assistance from ServerLIFT and their donation. Thanks to their generosity, we can now execute installs across all shifts and meet important delivery goals.”

The  UA data center is a 12,000-square-foot facility located on the University of è���������� Fairbanks campus. Built in 1993, it houses 110+ racks and serves clients across the state, including the  Research Computing System (RCS), è���������� Satellite Facility, è���������� Earthquake Center, and è���������� Volcano Observatory along with multiple University of è���������� affiliates.