What Kind of Ethernet Do I Need?

An efficient Ethernet cable management plan, especially in high-density and challenging network environments, increases the versatility of network maintenance and operation. It also contributes to the system’s uptime and lowers operation cost, which makes your life a whole lot easier! The demand for high-density networks can be attributed to the following:

• The need for energy efficiency through minimized cable impact on the flow of air
• Merging of servers, storage, and virtualization

The results are more cables per rack and highly used cable racks. This could result in operators being confused by the many cables, which causes increased human errors.

How to choose the right cables for a high-density network center

With increasing technology and virtualization, Ethernet networks are advancing and becoming more complicated as organizations strive for higher levels of reliability and performance. Choosing the right cabling solution will help you attain reliable performance. The following guidelines will help you choose the right cabling solution:

The environment you will be using your cables in

The environment you will be using your cables in will ultimately affect how long they last. If they will be used in a control room, you might not need really flexible cables as the vibration is minimal. However, if they will be exposed to chemicals, oils, and vibrations such as those in factories, you will need highly flexible cables.

The right jacketing solution

The jacketing you choose will also be determined by the environment your cables will be exposed to. The options available to you are:

• PVC – which is the most common jacketing solution as it can be used in a wide range of environments.
• Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) – which offer excellent flexibility as its made of plastic and rubber
• Flame retardant non-corrosive (FNRC) – which would be ideal if fires are a concern in your environment
• Polyurethane (PUR) – which is ideal in situations where the cables are exposed to oils, chemicals, and other abrasive solvents.

Your data rate demands

This refers to the complexity of your data needs. Your needs are different when you are starting out compared to when you are upgrading.

What are the cabling solutions for high-density networks?

Slim Cat6 Ethernet Patch Cables – Snagless Boot

Using the Cat6 slim patch cables enables you to save space in data centers due to their slim and smaller design. The design which has a smaller overall diameter makes cable management easy through the installation of condensed patch cord trays. This provides better airflow which is vital for the maintenance of consistent operational temperatures. This reduces the likelihood of downtimes or system failure.

The cable features a Snagless boot that allows easy finger access. This enables you to quickly connect or disconnect the cable even in dense cable environments. The patch cables are compliant with all EIA/TIA-568-C specifications.

CAT6 Ethernet Patch Cables – Easyboot (Ferrari-style)

One of the aspects that make this type of high-density cable stand out is the Ferrari-style (Easyboot) feature. The Snagless feature of the Ferrari-style ethernet cable makes them easy to connect or disconnect along with a low profile boot. The Snagless boot also makes it easy to pull the cables even in tight situations without damaging them. The cable is compliant with ANSI EIA/TIA 568-B.2-10.

Efficient network cable management is vital in today’s data centers. Along with choosing the right cables, choose the appropriate cable management tools. Plan ahead on the connections needed for your preferred cabling solution as well as where the cables will be routed.