Basics of Data Center Cabling Implementation – Part 2
Part 2 will discuss Documentation, Structured Cabling, Combo of Copper and Fiber Optic, and Position & Management of Cabling.
Documentation
A common problem of cabling infrastructure management is poor or missing documentation. It often happens that the original installation team is no longer available to provide guidance regarding its cabling to the respective data center. Thus, it is wise to ensure that an installation manual is provided by the installation team. This document should include labeled diagrams of every cable, connection, and network switch. It should also be updated after each upgrade or major change.
Structured Cabling
Unstructured cabling often results in a tangled mess of cables because optical links are deployed from device to device without using a patch panel. Moreover, data centers with an unstructured infrastructure tend to overheat because the resulting congestion of cabling and equipment restricts air flow.
In contrast, structured cabling utilizes patch panels, resulting in greater control and less density. Although the latter will require greater investment, it ensures longer service lives for cables and enables scalability.
Combo of Copper and Fiber Optic
There has been plenty of discussion regarding the advantages and disadvantages of using copper or fiber optic cables. However, using a combination of both is often the best approach. Copper cables cost less, but they are bulkier and heavier than fiber optic cables. In comparison, fiber provides higher bandwidth and is invulnerable to EMI.
Position & Management of Cabling
One common error is installing lighter cables underneath heavier ones, resulting in tension and stress on the lighter cables that may shorten their service lives. Fortunately, experienced installation teams are unlikely to make this mistake.
Horizontal wire managers are used to properly and tidily route patch and equipment cords from the switch/server to a patch panel. Density is highly crucial within data center cabinets and racks, so be aware of the number of rack spaces that are being used with horizontal wire managers.
A vertical wire manager is used to provide a vertical pathway for cable inside the rack or cabinet. It enables several horizontal wire managers to feed into a bigger vertical pathway for the whole rack’s height.
Progressive Office Cabling
Founded in 1986, Progressive Office’s success has been a direct result of years of commitment to seeking cost-effective solutions. Working together, Progressive teams are committed to getting your data cabling, access control, and telecom systems installed and operating while minimizing disruption and downtime. Call our toll free number (800) 614-4560 today.
