Faster Data Center Speeds Depend on Fiber Innovation
Multifiber connectors, ODFs and ribbon fiber: just a few of the fiber innovations that are making faster data center speeds a reality.?
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Data center speeds are in a state of constant growth. The industry has moved from 40G speeds to 100G speeds, and those are quickly giving way to 400G speeds. But even 400G speeds won’t be fast enough to support some emerging applications. For that reason, the industry is looking toward 800G and 1.6TB data center speeds.
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The IEEE Standards Association continues to issue new specifications for faster Ethernet, smoother data transfer, and increased range.
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With increasing data center speeds comes the shift away from serial transmission (sending one bit after another over a single channel) and toward parallel transmission (where multiple bits of data are sent simultaneously over multiple channels).
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Because each data stream requires its own fiber pair (one for transmitting and one for receiving), the use of parallel transmission means more fiber pairs per link.
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And more fiber pairs per link means more fiber to manage inside the data center. To squeeze more fiber into less physical space, high-density fiber innovations are becoming crucial to data center planning.
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In Getting Granular on Connectivity, a recent webinar led by Data Center Dynamics, Belden Vice President of R&D and Strategy Andrew Oliviero talked about this very topic. During the discussion, Oliviero explains and explores the connection between data center speeds and the need for more fiber. He also talks about new technology that’s enabling higher density.
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Below, we recap three high-density technologies that are moving into the mainstream to support higher fiber counts and faster data center speeds. You can watch the full discussion any time.
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Multifiber Connectors Connect More Fibers in a Single Port
Also called MPO (multifiber push-on) connectors, multifiber connectors can support multiple optical fibers with a single connector interface (anywhere from two to 72 fibers, in some cases!). By bringing multiple fibers together into a single connection, MPO connectors save valuable space and increase port density. Their small footprint further reduces the space they take up. For proper mating, the connectors come in male and female versions.
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These connectors have become the go-to option to support parallel transmission, which we mentioned above—they allow simultaneous transmission of many data streams. Because they can support multiple fibers, they also make network expansion easier when scaling is required to meet capacity demands.
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Ribbon Fibers Squeeze Many Fibers into a Small Space
Ribbon fiber cables combine high fiber density with mass fusion splicing. Inside a ribbon fiber cable, conducting wires run parallel to one another in the same plane. (Basically, groups of individual fibers are “ribbonized” together.) That way, all fibers in the ribbon can be spliced at the same time, reducing how much time is spent on termination.
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Historically, these cables aren’t known for flexibility. They only bend along their longitudinal axis (called “preferential bending axis”) and can be awkward to handle. To avoid damaging the fibers inside by bending them the wrong way, manufacturers purposely create stiff ribbon fiber cable. While this protects the performance of the fiber, it complicates handling and pulling.
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Ribbon cables also require ribbons to be sorted and prepared for a splice tray before they’re spliced.
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There are flexible ribbon cables, however, that solve many of these problems. They provide the highest connectivity density available with a small OD and much more flexibility than traditional ribbon cable. (In other words, it’s easier to handle and install.) Sorting and ribbonization are completed in the factory, which reduces installation time even more when compared to traditional ribbon cable (which already offers time savings).
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Scalable Optical Distribution Frames Manage Fiber Connections
Optical distribution frames (ODFs) play a fundamental role in managing fiber in high-density data center environments. They can handle large volumes of fiber connections while reducing clutter and improving accessibility to things like patch cords and connectors.
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Scalability of these systems is also key so they can accommodate ever-increasing numbers of fiber counts to support faster speeds and more bandwidth. By being able to upgrade the system with more cassettes, trays, and housings as needed over time, you can make the best use of valuable real estate.
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For example, modular ODFs can be set up in various configurations (back-to-back or side-to-side), offering even more expansion options.
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A modular ODF system also makes it simple to add cabinets as fiber connections increase. When more connections are added, you can deploy additional cabinets.
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Optimizing Data Center Investments
As data center speeds increase, Belden will continue to work with you to find systems and innovations that support high density without sacrificing performance.
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We excel at not only helping data centers prepare for higher speeds but optimizing investments to reduce future expenses.
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Watch the webinar to learn about Belden data center solutions.
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