Networks Europe Jan-Feb 2018 | Page 18

translate this number of connections into cabling volumes you ’ re faced with a huge challenge . Not only do you need to work out where to put them all , but also with regards to managing the connections and optimising performance .

IT requirements dictate the number of cables . Generally speaking , this isn ’ t flexible . Providers of physical infrastructure are faced with the challenge of enabling IT to meet business needs today and tomorrow , without interruption . Too often , we see IT being governed by physical

infrastructure limitations and the problem here is that it ' s really the tail wagging the dog .

In order to reduce cable volumes without reducing the number of cables , we must focus on reducing length and diameter of each cable . How can we do this ? Many manufacturers are now reducing cable diameters of patch cords with little or no impact on performance – the value of these is realised in switch and distribution cabinets where there can be as many as several hundred patch cords . So how do we reduce the length of cables in the cabinet ? The simple answer is by locating patch panel ports as close as possible to switch , NIC and HBA ports . Preconfigured cabinets that use a zero U patching system present a great solution , enabling patch ports to be located as close as possible to corresponding hardware connections and patch cords need not be longer than 50cm – often less .

For fibre connections , parallel optics have enabled multiple connections to be carried within a relatively small cable jacket . The break out only takes place at the last point – this approach can be used in preconfigured cabinets with zero U patching systems to great effect .

As providers of data centre cabling , we ’ ve all seen versions of how it should and shouldn ’ t be done . What ’ s always especially frustrating is when we hand over an immaculate installation to the customer only to return a few months later to see our work reduced to a rat ’ s nest – we ’ ve all been there . Reducing required lengths of patch cords goes some way to preventing this from happening , educating the customer is also important , in particular highlighting the perils of not following predefined practices . Restricting access to both cabinets and patch panel ports ensures that only competent individuals can install new connections . Plug guards can be introduced to prevent unauthorised individuals from plugging in additional cables without following correct cable management protocols . Preconfigured cabinets can provide a solution . Different configurations can provide internal connectivity presented in the way most suitable for its respective application and , importantly , large numbers of connections that fit into a small space without compromising performance , airflow , flexibility and resilience . In addition to port locks ,

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