#Japan #Data Center #Minato, Tokyo #Sanko IB #Niagara Framework

Sanko IB Enhances Data Center Efficiency with Next-gen Cooling Technology

Sanko IB, a leader in telecommunication, IT, and building automation technologies, has embarked on an exciting journey to revolutionize data center operations. Beginning October 2025, the company will participate in a collaborative verification project known as the Data Center Trial Field. This facility, aimed at advancing cooling technologies in data centers, represents a monumental step towards sustainability and efficiency in data management.

Overview of the Data Center Trial Field

The Data Center Trial Field is a cooperative initiative spearheaded by NTT Data and Hibiya Engineering Co., Ltd. Its primary mission is to enhance the community within the data center sector by fostering collaboration and addressing operational challenges. Within the confines of this innovative facility, real-time evaluations of liquid cooling technologies will take place in a simulated data center environment, allowing researchers to examine optimal conditions such as water temperature and flow rates. In preparation for the implementation in existing data centers, the facility will also provide training for maintenance personnel and assessments of monitoring systems.

Diversity is key in this venture, as various stakeholders—including data center operators, equipment manufacturers, IT vendors, and research institutions—will work together to address potential challenges in deploying and operating advanced cooling technologies.

Sanko IB's Role in the Initiative

As part of the collaborative efforts at the Trial Field, Sanko IB will utilize the Niagara Framework®, a state-of-the-art building management system developed by Tridium. The company's role includes integrating comprehensive monitoring, control, data logging, alarm systems, and network oversight across different equipment. By analyzing the advantages and potential issues of adopting liquid cooling/immersion technologies with the Niagara system, Sanko IB aims to validate preventive maintenance strategies from an operational perspective.

The integration of Niagara will streamline operations, optimize costs, and contribute to overall energy savings, furthering progress towards carbon neutrality in data centers. Efforts are being made to collaborate with related businesses to enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of data center management.

Understanding the Niagara Framework®

The Niagara Framework® is regarded as an open platform that seamlessly connects various building systems and devices. This innovative platform supports standard protocols such as BACnet, Modbus, SNMP, MQTT, OPC UA, and oBIX, allowing diverse equipment to work together irrespective of manufacturer constraints. Its scalability enables everything from single-site systems to complex multi-site integrations, making it an ideal solution for contemporary data center needs.

Through the integration of numerous data points into a single, user-friendly interface, the Niagara Framework® empowers operators to visualize and manage their systems efficiently, ultimately resulting in high-quality operations with minimal staffing requirements.

Conclusion

With over 37 years of experience since its establishment in 1986, Sanko IB has been instrumental in driving the smartization and digital transformation (DX) of Japanese enterprises, linking technology with real-world applications. The company's dedication to providing total solutions—including Wi-Fi infrastructure, cables, and industrial ethernet switches—positions it as a pivotal player in the smart building transformation journey. For more information, visit Sanko IB's website.

In conclusion, Sanko IB's participation in the Data Center Trial Field marks a significant stride towards innovating data center cooling technologies. The collaboration between multiple industry leaders and the use of cutting-edge technologies like the Niagara Framework® will no doubt contribute to a more efficient, sustainable, and resilient future for data center operations.