What splitter structure you should have in FTTH network centralized or cascading

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FTTH currently developed very fast in South America and Africa, however, many new comers are curioused about how many splitters should i have in FTTH network.

 

PON is the basic structure for FTTH network, PON is short for Passive Optical Network. It consists of OLT, ODN (Splitter) and ONT. From the structure, splitter placement in ODN is very crucial. there are generally two types of splitter placement in ODN network, centralized splitting and cascading splitting. The centralized splitter uses single-stage splitter located in a central office in a star topology. The cascading splitter approach uses multi-layer splitters in a point to multi point topology.

 

The centrlized splitting structure generally uses a 1×32 splitters in the central office. . The central office CO may be located anywhere in the network. The splitter input port is directly connected via a single fiber to a GPON/GEPON optical line terminal (OLT) in the central office. On the other side of the splitter, 32 fibers are routed through distribution panels, splice ports and/or access point connectors to 32 customers’ homes, where it is connected to an optical network terminal (ONT). Thus, the PON network connects one OLT port to 32 ONTs.

 

A cascading splitting structure approach may use a 1×4/1×8 splitter residing in an outside plant enclosure/terminal box. This is directly connected to an OLT port in the central office. Each of the four fibers leaving this stage 1 splitter is routed to an access terminal that houses a 1×8/1×4, stage 2 splitter. In this scenario, there would be a total of 32 fibers (4×8) reaching 32 homes. It is possible to have more than two splitting stages in a cascaded system, and the overall split ratio may vary (1×16 = 4 x 4,  1×32 = 4 x 8, 1×64 = 4 x 16, 1×64 = 8 x 8).

 

A centralized architecture typically offers greater flexibility, lower operational costs and easier access for technicians. A cascaded approach may yield a faster return-on-investment with lower first-in and fiber costs. When deciding on the best approach, it’s important to understand these architectures in detail and weigh the trade-offs. The cascading type of splitting is the most commonly used in the FTTH ODN structures.

 

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Comparing Passive Optical Networks and Passive Optical LANs

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The Basics of Passive Optical Networks (PONs)

A PON is a point-to-multipoint network using optical splitters and loose tube singlemode fiber for outdoor network deployments.

 

Passive optical network technology has been around for a long time. Outside plant carrier networks (fiber-to-the-home, or FTTH) providers have been using passive optical network technology for over a decade.

 

PONs work well because their providers have lots of experience with passive optical networks; they know how much bandwidth a customer (one home, or one dwelling unit) typically consumes, so they can set up their split ratios very efficiently. There is a demonstrated blueprint for where to locate splitters, and what ratios are needed. This has been developed through trial and error over time.

 

The Basics of Passive Optical LANs

A traditional LAN manages signal distribution with numerous routers and switch aggregators. Passive optical LANs use passive optical splitters, just like PONs, but are adapted to indoor network architectures. As an alternative to traditional LAN, passive optical LAN is also a point-to-multipoint network that sends its signals on a strand of singlemode fiber. POLAN (or POL) utilizes the optical splitters to divide the high bandwidth signal for multiple users, and makes use of wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) technology to allow for bi-directional upstream and downstream communication. A passive optical LAN consists of an optical line terminal (OLT) in the main equipment room and optical network terminals (ONTs) located near end-users.

 

Because of this setup, passive optical LAN can decrease the amount of cable and equipment required to deploy a network. Compared to traditional copper cabling systems and active optical systems, passive optical LAN streamlines the amount of cabling required within a network. Also, because the splitters are passive (requiring no power and emitting no heat), the power and cooling requirements for traditional intermediate distribution frames (IDFs) or telecommunications rooms (TRs) is drastically reduced or eliminated.

 

Passive Optical LAN Offers Many Benefits

The waters are a bit uncharted when it comes to passive optical LAN, however – especially compared to outdoor PON. As of right now, there are no established POLAN standards; each vendor works from its own platform (ONTs from one vendor are not compatible with the OLTs of another, for example). Also, there is a much shorter history for POLAN deployments; split ratios are generally not as well understood (how much bandwidth does your engineering department really need?). In the past, passive optical LAN deployments were also completed without following a structured approach, so they often lacked interconnection points for future moves, adds and changes (MACs) and repairs.

How Multiplexing Techniques Enable Higher Speeds on Fiber Optic Cabling

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Different multiplexing technologies are enabling the evolution of network speeds on fiber optic cabling. Such technologies include time division, space division and wavelength division multiplexing.

 

Wavelength Division Multiplexing

 

Wavelength division multiplexing is signaling simultaneously across multiple lanes segregated by different wavelengths (colors) of light that are multiplexed into and out of a single fiber. As the name implies, the wavelength band available for transmission is divided into segments each of which can be used as a channel for communication. It is possible to squeeze many channels into a small spectrum. The common versions used for long haul, single mode systems are called dense wave division multiplexing or coarse wave division multiplexing. In multimode systems, short wavelength division multiplexing techniques are appearing.

 

Space Division Multiplexing

 

Space division multiplexing, more commonly known as parallel optics or parallel fibers, is a way of adding one or more lanes simply by adding one or more optical fibers into the composite link. A lane in this scenario is physically another fiber strand. It’s an alternative to time division multiplexing lanes described above, where signals merged each in time on the same fiber. There are a number of examples of this technique being used in the industry. For example, 40G SR4 delivers 40Gbps over multi-mode fiber using four lanes or fibers. That’s four lanes in one direction and four lanes in the other direction. That’s also what the four on the end of ‘SR4’ means, four lanes of 10Gbps each.

 

Time Division Multiplexing

 

Time division multiplexing is simply a way of transmitting more data by using smaller and smaller increments of time, and multiplexing lower data rate signals into a higher speed composite signal. With time division multiplexing, lower speed electrical signals are interleaved in time and transmitted out on a faster composite lane. So, the higher resultant data rate would be multiple times the individual rates going in.

 

There are examples used today where Ethernet rates are achieved using such parallel electrical signals, combined in a multiplexer and serialized over fiber. For instance, 10Gbps Ethernet has four lane options where each of the lanes is at a quarter rate of 2.5Gbps.

 

Today’s top speed per lane is 25Gbps for Ethernet. If we look into the future, 50Gbps lane rates are being developed.

 

With the higher rates, more complex multi-level code schemes are used to get more bits through with each symbol. This is an indication that maximum speed limits are being reached and so alternative techniques are used to increase the composite lane speed.

 

 

Space Division Multiplexing

 

The standard for the 100Gbps solution uses 10 lanes of 10Gbps called SR10. There is also a second generation of 100G that has increased the lane rate to 25Gbps and that delivers 100G using four lanes, so mixing the improvements in time division multiplexing and parallel optic techniques to achieve the goal of higher speeds.

 

Taking this further from four lanes in each direction up to 16 or 24 lanes, speeds of 200Gbps, 400Gbps and beyond are made possible; however there are pragmatic limits. If you can get away with it, then clearly a four lane solution is more practical than a 24 lane solution. Going above 16 or 24 lanes is a diminishing return because it drives more cost into the cabling system. That’s where the third multiplexing technique, wave division multiplexing, comes in.

 

 

With short wavelength division multiplexing, wavelengths are used in the lower cost short wavelength range around 850nm to add lanes within a single strand of optical fiber. An example of this on the market today is Cisco’s 40G BD, or Bi-Di. Bi-Di stands for bidirectional and the signals are transmitting in both directions in each optical fiber strand, using two different wavelengths to discriminate between the reflections that might happen. This technique uses 20Gbps per wavelength in each of two fibers and that way they can get 40Gbps through the 2 core fiber channel using a duplex LC connector.

 

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What is QSFP+ Optics Transceiver

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Definition and Application of QSFP

QSFP also called QSFP+, it stands for Quad (4-channel) Small Form-factor Pluggable Optics Transceiver. It is a compact, hot-pluggable fiber optical transceiver used for 40 Gigabit Ethernet (40GbE) data communications applications. It’s designed according to QSFP+ Multi-source agreement and IEEE802.3ab, they are usually for the application of Data center, 40G Ethernet, Infiniband, and other communications standards.

 

It interfaces a network device (switch, router, media converter or similar device) to a fiber optic or copper cable. It is an industry standard format defined by the Small Form Factor Committee (SFF-8436, Rev 3.4, Nov. 12, 2009—Specification for QSFP+ Copper and The CFP MSA was formally launched at OFC/NFOEC 2009 in March by founding members Finisar, Opnext, and Sumitomo/ ExceLight. The format specification is evolving to enable higher data rates; as of May 2013, the highest supported rate is 4x28Gbps (112Gbps) defined in the SFF-8665 document (commonly known as QSFP28) which will support 100GE.

 

The QSFP MSA specification supports Ethernet, Fibre Channel, InfiniBand and SONET/SDH standards with different data rate options. The QSFP Multi Source Agreement (MSA) document specifies a QSFP optic transceiver mechanical form factor with the latching mechanism, host-board electrical edge connector and cage. QSFP+ optic transceivers are designed to support Serial Attached SCSI, 40G Ethernet, 20G/40G Infiniband, and other fiber optic communications standards as well as copper cable media. The QSFP optic modules highly increase the port-density by 4x compared to SFP+ optic modules.

 

Types of QSFP+ Optics Transceiver

Optcore provides a full range of both copper cables, active optical cables and optical transceivers for 40GbE, compliant to the IEEE standards.

40G QSFP+ Transceiver Optics

40G QSFP+ Copper Cables

40G QSFP+ to 4xSFP+ Breakout Copper Cables

QSFP+ to CX4 Copper Cables

QSFP to MiniSAS(SFF-8088) DDR Cable

40G QSFP+ to QSFP+ Active Optical Cables (AOC )

40G QSFP+ to 8xLC Optical Cables

 

10G to 40G / 100G MPO Optical Link Testing Technology

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Objective

Technology changes the life, informatization is the trend of the development of the world today. Networking, cloud computing, large data and other emerging network information technology innovation and application, and in mobile interconnection technology, the 3G network is maturing, 4G LTE network from the beginning of last year in the national pilot run, mobile interconnection speed will be a new step. In this era of information industrialization, we work and live in the city is also in the transformation of the Intelligent city, a variety of network applications are closely related to us. Whether it is the application of new technology or the construction of the Intelligent city, the application cannot be separated from the basic network. The construction of the basic network is based on the site, the active terminals, and interconnecting devices, as well as the basic interconnection channel-cabling system. Cabling system needs to be installed on the site, easy to be affected by environment, product quality, installation process and other factors, is the most important link to determine the quality of network transmission. The reliability of Cabling system depends not only on the quality supervision in the project but also on the final  field acceptance test.

 

The urgency of test technology development

At present, most of the small and medium-sized cabling projects still use 10 Gigabit as the backbone to achieving Gigabit to the desktop network architecture. However, with the rapid development of 3G / 4G and Internet services, bandwidth cannot meet the needs of applications. The main link uses 40G / 100G to become a large-scale wiring project, especially the inevitable trend of enterprise data center and Internet IDC data center project construction. According to IDC market report, after 2015, 40G / 100G will gradually become the mainstream port rate.

 

Since the IEEE released the 802.3ba 40G / 100G standard in June 2010, the 40G / 100G network has mainly been based on experimental networks and has fewer requirements for on-site testing. After more than two years of systematic research and development testing, the current 40G / 100G transmission technology is maturing, major manufacturers have introduced 40G / 100G switching routing equipment, carrier-class long-distance backbone link using single-mode optical fiber systems, and buildings and data centers The integrated cabling system is mainly based on multimode OM3 / OM4 optical fiber system transmitting over short distances. It adopts 12-pin MPO connector and four-channel / ten-channel pre-connected optical cable. Pre-connected optical cable greatly reduces installation time and labor costs, but how to quickly identify the polarity of the fiber, fast and accurate test of the link attenuation has become the primary problem of field testing.

 

Traditional optical fiber testing technology

First of all, let us first review the original Gigabit, 10 Gigabit optical fiber link test technology. In 2003, TIA-526-14-A multi-mode optical cable installation light intensity loss test standard formally defines the CPR (CoupledPowerRatio) optical coupling rate detection method, the light source is divided into five levels (as shown below), LED light source is level 1 Light source, VCSEL The vertical cavity surface emits a laser light source at a level between level 3 and level 4, and the FP laser light source corresponds to a level 5 light source. At the same time, the test limits of optical loss are further increased. The maximum loss value of 1000BASE-SX applied to OM1 optical fiber is 2.6dB. The maximum loss value of 10GBASE-SR applied to optical fiber OM3 is 2.6dB. This standard, as a common standard for optical fiber link testing, is not aimed at specific network applications. It emphasizes the normal state of optical signal transmission. It is recommended to use LED light sources to test multimode fiber links. This method can detect the worst fiber link Happening. The laser-optimized VCSEL light source is used to detect the link for a specific network application. For example, if the active device uses a VCSEL light source or the current network is to be upgraded to use a VCSEL light source, the measured fiber loss value is relatively close to the real loss in the network application value.

 

850NM CPR Categories

 

The TIA-526-14-A standard is referenced by several related test standards such as ANSI / TIA / EIA-568-B, ISO / IEC11801, ISO / IEC14763-3 and others. And ANSI / TIA / EIA568-B.1.7.1 and ISO / IEC14763-36.22 also specify the size and use of 50 / 62.5um multimode fiber spools. The reel is modeled as a mode filter by means of a coiled optical fiber to reduce the high mode generated by the light source in the optical cable and reduce the difference of test results caused by different light sources and improve the stability and repeatability of multimode optical fiber testing.

 

10G MPO multi-core fiber test solution

Compared with traditional dual-core fiber optic connectors such as LC, SC, and ST, MPO connectors can support at least 12-core optical fibers. The MPO connector is mainly used for pre-attached optical fiber cables. Because MPO optic fiber has 12 core channels, TIA-568-C.0-2009B.4 has analyzed the channel polarity in detail, for the duplex transmission, there are mainly three kinds of polarities A, B, C connections. All three methods are for a common goal —- to create an end to end optical transceiver channel, but the three ways cannot be compatible, respectively, using different polarity connectors and adapters. For the entire link compatibility and consistency, as far as possible to consider the use of the same polarity connectors and adapters, such as the use of the jumper polarity are AB, adapter types are KEYUP-KEYUP, or the polarity will cause different Confusion, easy to install error, resulting in link failure. Therefore, in the 10G Fiber Channel, the MPO main link polarity mainly adopts Class C (see below). The two ports are internally interoperable according to the corresponding numbers. The optical channels are connected in groups of two or more, such as 1- – 2, 2 — 1, forming a full-duplex transceiver channel. The left and right ends are converted into the LC interface through the MPO to LC module box and then connected to the device through the LC jumper. This situation is mainly used in the data center high-density cabling system.

Application of MPO Cabling in High-Density Data Center

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Fiber optic jumper applications in the data center are very extensive, and in recent years the data center fiber optic transmission system bandwidth demand shows a high growth trend, so the use of a new generation of fiber and optical modules can continue to explore the potential of fiber-optic network bandwidth growth. As the multimode fiber jumper in the cost of a great advantage, to promote its application in the data center.

 

With the continuous drive of the application and popularization of the network media in the cloud computing environment, the multimode fiber jumper is also developing, from OM1 to OM2, and from OM3 to OM4 to use the VCSEL laser optimization technology, the bandwidth demand is increasing. New OM4 Multi-mode jumper fiber standard EIA/TIA492AAAD is introduced, which provides a better transmission mode for multimode fiber in the future wide application. This article provides an ideal communication solution for your data center, servers, network switches, telecentres, and many other embedded applications that require high-speed data transmission.

 

In a transport port connection device in a 40G / 100G data transmission application, such as QSFP optical modules, regardless of Fiber Channel connections using several fiber connections, and regardless of the type of fiber connection, they are connected directly to the MTP / MPO connector. Because the 40G / 100G data transmission application channel and the device connection between the equipment need to form a special mode, so that the device’s transmitter and receiver channels corresponding to each other, which requires MTP / MPO connector to complete the connection.

 

The MPO/MTP fiber jumper can provide a wide range of applications for all networks and devices that require 100G modules. They use the high-density multimode fiber optic connector system MT series of casing design, MPO / MTP fiber jumper with UPC and APC polished end, and also supports multimode and single-mode applications. The 10G OM3 / OM4 MPO / MTP fiber jumpers provide 10 Gbps of data transfer rates in high-bandwidth applications, which are five times faster than the standard 50 μm fiber jumper.

 

At the same time, multi-mode MPO / MTP fiber jumpers are also the most economical choice for most of common optical fiber communication systems. Single-mode MPO / MTP fiber jumper is mainly used for long-distance data transmission system. The MPO / MTP trunk cable is designed for data center applications. Typically, single-mode and multi-mode MPO / MTP fiber jumpers are designed to be 3mm or 4.5mm round cable, and connectors at both ends of the cable are also referred to as MPO / MTP connectors.

 

The MPO / MTP high-density push-pull fiber jumpers are currently used in three areas: high-density cabling data centers, fiber-to-the-home, and connection applications with a splitter, 40G QSFP+ / 100G QSFP28, 10G SFP+ and other optical modules. Today, there are already a series of high-density parallel optical interconnect products that can accommodate optical fiber transmission in modern data centers, such as custom MPO / MTP fiber jumpers, multimode fiber loopers, and QSFP+ high-speed cable assemblies.

 

Server virtualization and the development of cloud computing, as well as the development trend of network convergence, bringing a faster and more efficient data center network development needs. At present, 48x 10G channel composed of 10G switches, mainly limited to the use of SFP+ module to achieve the connection. In order to meet the higher bandwidth requirements, users can use a high-density QSFP+ high-speed cable to complete the connection, by increasing the data transmission rate of each channel and increase the port density to meet customer’s high bandwidth requirements.

11 Common Networking Cable Mistakes

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Network cabling is one of those things that seems easy on paper but ends up being hard once you apply it in the real world. Most people tend to ignore it but do not realize how much it will cost them in the long run. You could find yourself paying extra costs that were unnecessary in the first place, wasting time on running maintenance tests that never needed to be performed if the job was done right, poor network performance, and much more.

 

Close up of network cables connected to switch

 

The most surprising thing about networking cable mistakes is that there aren’t thousands of little mistakes that are being made. Many IT professionals agree only a few fundamental mistakes are responsible for the majority of the problems.

 

Here is a short list of the 11 most common networking cable mistakes that are seen in the IT industry: 

 

1) No cable management. This is where it all starts. Forget testing and other things – you can’t expect solid network performance if you are not properly managing your cables. This means that you will have to do the necessary work of properly labeling your cables and organizing them in a way that they can be easily accessed. Whether you use a rack or some other means, it is important to get this crucial mistake out of the way. It will be far easier to manage the cables, and maintenance will take up less of your valuable time.

 

2) Failing to plan. Before you even begin to take your cables and start connecting them to every port in sight, you need to know how everything is going to be laid out. Planning out your cable organization in advance is the first step to properly setting up your network.

 

Network cable bundle

 

3) Ignoring the rules. The best cable setup in the world is meaningless if you are breaking the rules! There are certain laws, standards, and codes that you have to abide by at the local, state, and federal level. Read up on the standards that pertain to you and your company. It’s one thing to have a safety hazard because you ignored the rules and another thing to pay hefty fines! 

 

4) Failing to control atmospheric temperature. The environment in which you set up your cables makes a huge difference. If the cables heat up too much, it could lead to the failure of the entire network. Likewise, moisture can also lead to network failure and compromise the safety of nearby workers. You need a system in place to keep all of your cables cool and dry. Cooling systems, air conditioning – whatever it takes to get the job done: Do it.

 

5) Ignoring distance limits. In general, 100 meters is the limit for the length of a cable. Keep in mind that this distance also includes path leads. Each cabling has its own limits, however, so you need to mindful of the cabling that is being used for your network.

 

6) Running cables near interference-causing devices. Believe it or not, there are many ways for interference to mess up your cabling setup. There are several types of interference (magnetic, electrical, etc.) that can be caused by seemingly harmless things like motors and fluorescent lighting. The pathway you set up for your cables should be free of these types of hazards.

 

7) No space for cable removal. The IT environment is dynamic in nature, and changes are going to be happening all the time. Adapting rapidly to change means that you should be able to easily remove cables at any time. If not, you are paving the way for operational hazards. When in doubt, always leave a little more space than you think is necessary.

 

8) Using separate cabling for data and voice. The traditional way of designing a cable network was to use separate set-ups for data and voice. Due to the different needs of the end user, this is no longer a viable option. Your best bet is to use twisted pair cabling.

 

9) Running cable parallel to electrical cables. This is a common mistake that usually leads to interference in data transmission from one point to the other. This can be remedied by crossing them in perpendicular instead of parallel.

 

10) Failing to test your network before activating it. Once everything has been set up, and you are happy with your layout, don’t forget to test your network before activating it. This will help you catch any errors you may have missed and address problems regarding data transmission and safety. Make sure to use the appropriate tools.

 

A bunch of network cables in a data center

 

11) Failing to ask for help. Sometimes, when all else fails, and you don’t know what to do, you need a second pair of eyes to look at what you have done. Call a licensed, experienced professional to help you set up your networking cable in a way that is safe and helps to transmit data efficiently.

 

Those are the 11 most common mistakes that you are going to see with networking cable. As long as you are aware of them and pay extra attention during the setup, you should be good to go on the first try! If not, look back at each mistake individually and check to make sure that you did not miss anything.

Uses for Ethernet Cable

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Ethernet cables are standard wires that connect computers to a network. These cables are specifically designed to facilitate easy communication between disparate electronic equipment. These electronic devices can either be fax machines, printers, scanners, or personal computers.

 

An Ethernet cable facilitates communication between the internet servers and your personal computer. The cable provides stable internet connection. This means that you can work all day and download and upload your files without stress. Here are a few things you need to know about Ethernet cables:

 

How to connect Ethernet cables

An Ethernet cord can connect two devices using the Ethernet ports on each. The cable is locked into place by a modular plug. Connecting your device using these cables requires patience because modular plugs tend to break easily. The first thing that you need to do is to hold the cable firmly and then turn it so that the small plastic plug faces up. Insert the cord into your computer's Ethernet port. A computer has several ports, but an Ethernet port is usually bigger than the other ports. Firmly push the cable into the port until the plug locks into the place. You need to be careful when pushing the cable to the port to make sure that you don’t break the modular plug.

 

After inserting your plug, you need to check whether the internet is working. If it is not working, you should check whether the cable was inserted well in your computer and in the internet port. This connection process will only take you less than 5 minutes and you are good to go. You can use the Internet to download and transfer large files without any interruptions.

 

Benefits

Installation simplicity

These cables are easy to install because they come in different sizes. So, you can choose the size that fits your needs. For example, if you buy a hub or a router from one of your local computer shops, you can easily insert the cables into each port on the hardware devices. Computers come pre-built with Ethernet network adapters. This means that you can easily insert cables into the computer even if you don’t have knowledge in network administration.

 

Speed

Contrary to what most people believe, an Ethernet network is fast. This means that you can use cables to connect several computers in your home and enjoy surfing at a reasonable speed. This cable network connection is fast enough to transfer large files within a short time. This speed is also reliable because cables are not subject to breakdowns such as the case with modems and other wireless devices.

 

Availability

Ethernet cables are readily available. The cables are also cheaper compared to other types of cables such as coax and fiber. You can easily find a replacement in our selection if you accidentally break your cable. FireFold is here to help if you have any questions!

How to Create a Cat 6 Patch Cable

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Cat 6 cable (listed in the standard as Category 6) is a standardized cable for 1000GBASE-T (Gigabit Ethernet) that is backward compatible with Category 5/5E and Category 3. It is also suitable for 10GBASE-T (10-Gigabit Ethernet), 10BASE-T, and 100 BASE-TX (Fast Ethernet). New installations often specify Cat 6 cable. It is important for professional installers to understand the requirements of the newer standard and know how to create a standard cat 6 patch cable.

 

Differences With Cat 5 Cable

Whereas Cat5E cable is only characterized up to 350 MHz, Cat 6 allows up to 550 MHz operation. The greatest performance improvement for Category 6 cable is its increased immunity to alien crosstalk. This type of crosstalk is coupling between nearby connections. In some cases, users can hear other people’s conversations on their line, thus the term crosstalk. The biggest foil to crosstalk is that the 8 cable wires are matched in sets of 4 twisted pairs. Each pair is fed differentially, and common-mode signals (signals which are the same on both wires, such as crosstalk coupling) are rejected. A second technique for reducing crosstalk is to use digital signals, which are inherently resistant.

 

Physical Characteristics

It is easy to differentiate Category 6 cable by the printing on the side of the sheath. Connectors use either TIA standard T568A or T568B pin assignments. Some technicians get away with alternate configurations. This works as long as both ends of the cable are connected the same way. However, it is not a recommended practice in case another technician comes in to repair one end of the cable later.

 

Although Cat 6 connectors have the same 8P8C look as Cat 5E and other earlier versions, it is important to use cat 6 rated jacks, connectors, and cables, or the improved Category 6 performance will be degraded.

 

Installation Caveats

In order to meet Cat 6 specs, installation is everything. Make sure not to kink the cable. This can happen if the bend radius is less than four times the cable diameter. A common installation mistake is to strip the insulation back more than 0.5 in (12.7 mm). Another common problem is allowing the twisted pairs to unravel past the skin point, creating a crosstalk vulnerability point at the connector.

 

High EMI (electromagnetic interference) environments require special handling. This type of environment may occur when cabling is within a few feet of a power plant, a high power electric motor, high power switches, or other heavy EMI generators. Cable shielding preserves the Category 6 specs and is enhanced by connecting to a drain wire. This wire runs through the actual cable alongside the groups of twisted pairs.

 

According to Cat 6 directives, the cable shielding is connected to true ground at each cable end through jacks. Unfortunately, this violates the rule of only grounding one side of a shield in order to avoid creating a ground loop. Installers must be careful to place each cable to avoid having a voltage differential from one end of the cable to the other. If this happens, extraneous currents may be generated in the cable, increasing system noise.

 

How to Make a Patch Cable

 

Start by assembling the proper tools:

 

• Category 6 cutter/stripper

• Plugs – these are different for stranded or solid connectors. They are nearly impossible to differentiate visually, so be sure to keep them separate after you make the purchase.

• Crimper

• Boots (optional)

 

Cat6 Crimp ToolNow complete the following steps:

 

• Cut the cable to length and strip to 0.5”. Use the boots facing outwards, if desired.

• Carefully untwist the cable pairs – do not go further than the strip.

• Bend the center spine away from the conductor wires and cut at the strip.

• Bring the wires together and cut at a sharp angle.

• Bring the wires together and insert them into the loadbar. Use a 568B wiring diagram. (For a crossover cable, follow the 568A wiring diagram at one end only.)

• Check the wire order one more time, and then make a perfectly straight cut 0.25” past the loadbar.

• Place the connector onto the loadbar assembly. Make sure the copper connectors are up and the locking clip is facing down.

• Make the crimp, squeezing all the way down.

• Repeat the procedure at the other end.

 

Test the Assembly

Be sure to perform a continuity check religiously with each cable assembly. Consider using a high-quality four-pair tester. If the cable fails, try giving another crimp at each end. If necessary, check the wires by color for the proper positioning. Make sure each wire extends to the connector end and that the pins are pushed down fully. If it still does not work, clip off one connector and try again. If there is still a problem, repeat the examination, focusing in on the end with the original connector. Finally, high-performance 10GBASE-T will need to be tested in situ for alien crosstalk.

 

If we at FireFold can help in any way, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Should You Choose Copper or Fiber Patch Panels?

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There is no doubt that patch panels are extremely important in cabling systems. You simply cannot have a business or home network (no matter how big or how small) without the use of patch panels. It has been said that patch panels are basically the “nerve center” for a cabling network, and they allow you to terminate cable elements. They also allow the signal to be connected to the final destination.

 

Patch panels are so critical to a system that if anything goes wrong with them, the entire system may fail. That means that they are very important to your networking system! Patch panels also play a big role in the administration of the telecommunications network. Some believe that they are the absolute only way to successfully transfer lines from one office to the next office.

 

Since they allow such easy management of cables, it makes sense to choose patch panels carefully. There are copper patch panels and fiber patch panels available. If you use both, it is best to separate the cabling made out of fiber from cabling made from copper. But what if you want to choose between copper and fiber patch panels? Which kind is best?

 

First, you should know that patch panels are used in fiber cabling networks as well as copper cabling networks. So is there a difference between these two types of cables as far as performance is concerned? Well, most professionals don’t see any differences. But others believe that the fiber patch panels are better, even though they are more expensive than their copper counterpart. In fact, they can be up to 40 percent higher in cost.

 

When it comes to copper patch panels, each pair of wires has a port. Fiber patch panels require two ports, but no hardwiring is needed. Fiber patch panels are a lot easier to install because of this. The fiber is fed through a coupler.

 

In addition, most professionals are in agreement that fiber is a lot faster than copper patch panels. Both types of patch panels must perform according to the same TIA/EIA standards that are needed to produce speed and signal performance for the rest of the cabling network.

Benefits of Fiber Optic Technology

by www.fiber-mart.com

Advances in communication technology have led to the introduction of a new means of communication that is not only faster, but also more efficient and lighter on the environment. This technology, known as fiber optics, has greatly increased the speed at which people can now communicate. Let’s take a closer look at some of the advantages of fiber optic technology and what makes it the best means of communication.

 

Immunity

For one, fiber optics is immune from electromagnetic interference. This means that the signal that is sent from one end is the exact same one that is received on the other end. Other factors such as lightning and heavy industries emitting waves have no effect on fiber optics signals, making the technology a very conducive means of communication. Fiber cable signals cannot be interfered with by signals from outside, making them great for sensitive information.

 

Secure communication

Given the fact that fiber optic cables use light instead of electrical currents for communication, they are more secure when used in communication. It is very difficult to do a fiber optic equivalent of a wiretap since there is a great deal of information that flows through these cables. Fiber optics is much more secure, and when it is used for communication, the information that is passed is protected from tapping by malicious users.

 

Cables are non-conductive

Fiber optic cables are made of glass or plastic. Both of these materials do not conduct electricity, so they cannot be interfered with using electrical currents. If lightning strikes a fiber optic cable, nothing is distorted in the cable, and communication goes on as usual. This makes fiber optic technology an excellent means of communications, especially in areas where lightning and other natural hazards are common.

 

Easy to install

Given the fact that fiber optic cables are just a fraction of the weight of traditional copper cables, they are extremely easy to carry from one location to the other and also easy to install. They need less manpower to install, which means smaller installation costs. The ease of installation also makes the deployment of fiber optic networks easy and much faster. Since fiber optics are lighter, it is very easy to carry them around during the installation process. Leaving them out in the open at night does not expose them to rust and other environmental factors that are experienced by traditional copper cables.

 

High bandwidth

Since fiber optic cables use light to transmit signals, a lot more information can be carried through the cable. This increased bandwidth can now be used for more efficient communication and transfer much more information. The increased bandwidth means that people can download files much faster and communicate more efficiently.

 

As you can see, fiber optics technology has made it easier for people to access the internet with a high bandwidth and to get access to information globally.

Fiber Optic Terminology

by www.fiber-mart.com

Fiber optic is a technology used in the transmission of telephone, internet, and cable television signals. During transmission, this signal is usually in the form of light within the carrying medium. This technology is becoming very popular nowadays because of its advantages: It has very low loss of signal during transmission, it does not have ground currents, and it carries high capacities of data. There are many fiber optic products available at FireFold.

 

Some technical terms are associated with fiber optic technology. The following are some of these terms and their meanings:

 

The first term is analog to digital converter, which is commonly referred to as ADC. An ADC converts analogue (continuous) signals into digital (discrete) signals. This conversion is usually very important in the transmission process.

 

Another important fiber optic term is absorption, which is the loss of part of a signal being transmitted due to its conversion from an optical form into heat. Such losses are usually very minimal in optical transmission and are caused by impurities with the transmitting medium.

 

Next, an active device is one that can only operate if it is supplied with some power. Moreover, it usually has an output that depends on signals within the transmitting medium at an earlier stage before getting to the device. An example of an active device is an amplifier. An amplifier is a device that increases the strength of an optical signal in order to minimize absorption effects. An amplifier is usually placed between a transmitter and a receiver.

 

A receiver detects and converts optical signals at the end of a transmission line. This device also converts a signal from its optical format to an electrical format. A device that complements a receiver is the transmitter. It is found at the source of a signal and has driving capabilities in order to ensure that signals are sent to their intended destinations. One of its main functions is to convert electrical signals into an optical format. Another important term in fiber optic communication is channel. It refers to a path that signals follow from a transmitter to a receiver.

 

Associated to a channel is the term channel coding. Channel coding is a technique used in maintaining the integrity of data being transmitted, which is achieved by encoding of the data and error correction.

 

The material used to transmit optical signals usually has cladding. Cladding is the material that surrounds the part of fiber optic cables that carries signals (core). Cladding has to have a lower refractive index than the core in order to enhance internal reflection. Internal reflection is important to ensure that an optic signal remains within the core during its transmission. Refractive index is a number associated with materials' ability to allow light to pass through them. It is a ratio of light's velocity within free space to its velocity within a certain material.

What is a Patch Panel and What Is Its Purpose?

by Fiber-MART.COM

These days, it seems that just about everything is wireless. But to take advantage of the blazingly fast Internet now available in most homes and businesses, a wired network often will allow you to achieve speeds much closer to the promised maximum.

What Is A Patch Panel?

A patch panel is essentially an array of ports on one panel. Each port connects, via a patch cable, to another port located elsewhere in your building. If you want to set up a wired network that includes multiple ports in various rooms, a patch panel in a central location can provide a neat and easy-to-manage solution.

How Do Patch Panels Work?

Patch panels bundle multiple network ports together to connect incoming and outgoing lines — including those for local area networks, electronics, electrical systems and communications. When patch panels are part of a LAN, they can connect computers to other computers and to outside lines. Those lines, in turn, allow LANs to connect to wide area networks or to the Internet. To arrange circuits using a patch panel, you simply plug and unplug the appropriate patch cords. Troubleshooting problems are simplified with patch panels since they provide a single location for all input jacks. They’re frequently used in industries that require extensive sound equipment because they work well for connecting a variety of devices.

Managing the Tangle

The primary advantage of using patch panels, also known as patch bays, is improved organization and easier management of your wired network. For most newer patch panel designs, the main focus is on cable management. By using a front-access patch panel, for instance, you can get to all your cables and terminations easily. Front-access panels work especially well in tight spaces. For businesses, patch panels are often around found in areas that house telecommunications equipment and they play a central role in network functionality. By centralizing cables in one place, patch panels make it easy for network administrators to move, add or change complex network architectures. In a business environment, patch panels are the smart way to quickly transfer communications lines from office to another.

Copper or Fiber?

Patch panels can be part of networks with either fiber or copper cabling. While fiber is much faster than copper, networking professionals disagree on whether the materials show significant performance differences in patch panels. The primary role of the panels is to direct signal traffic rather than move signal at a required speed. There’s no question, however, that fiber panels cost more. All patch panels are subject to the same standards that provide signal and speed performance ratings for other network components.

It’s All About the Ports

Ports are a component of patch panels because they provide physical entry and exit points for data. Most patch panels have either 24 or 48 ports. However, panels can include 96 ports, and some specialty versions reach 336 or more. The number of ports on a panel is not subject to physical limit other than the room to place them. However, panels include modules with eight ports because it’s easier to perform replacements and maintenance on smaller groupings. When a malfunction occurs, smaller groups of ports mean fewer wires to connect to a new module.

Using Patch Panels

If you can wire an Ethernet jack, you can wire a patch panel. You’ll simply need to repeat the sequence multiple times for your various ports. A patch panel with eight ports should suffice for most home networks, but it’s easy to expand when you need more capacity. Panels with eight to 24 ports are readily available, and you can make use of multiple panels together to create a larger one. If you’re putting together a home or business network, can you get the job done without patch panels? Certainly, since patch panels serve more as a convenience than necessity. But by incorporating a patch panel — or several — you can expect better cable management and easier fixes when a network component inevitably breaks down.

Difference Between Composite and Component Adapters

by Fiber-MART.COM

When it comes to audio-visual cables that are used for video products within the market, there are two types that exist: composite and component. Although both of them are similar in many ways, such that they both use RCA connectors, there are also some key differences to be mindful of that will affect the type of cables that you plan to use, and, hence, the adapters that you will purchase. The type of device you use will also affect your choice because they are better suited to work with one type of adapter over the other.

 

Number of Connectors & Their Color

A composite adapter will come with three connectors: one yellow cable that is entirely responsible for analog video transmission, and two cables (red and white) that are dedicated to carrying the audio signal; left channel for the red cable and the right channel for the white cable. The video that you see on the device is a linear combination of hue, saturation, and luminance. You will see these kinds of connections being used in older TVs.

 

A component adapter is different in that there are five connectors: three colored cables (usually red, blue, and green) that are responsible for transmitting the video signal, with the other two used to carry the audio signal (usually red and white). This type of connection is supported by modern electronic devices. For both adapters, there is not a drastic difference in sound quality.

 

Make sure to read the instructions when you are determining which cable corresponds to what function – some manufacturers will design the cables differently and use an unconventional coloring schematic. This might explain why the picture on your device is not displaying properly, and this assumes that neither the device or cables are damaged.

 

Image Transmission

As previously stated, the composite adapter will take in the image data that is encoded within a single channel. All of the video comes entirely from the single yellow cable. In the case of the component adapter, it takes in three separate signals from separate channels: Y (Brightness, or the luminance of the screen), PR (difference between red and luminance) and PB (difference between blue and luminance), which is known in consumer electronics as YPBPR.

 

Resolution

In terms of the quality of the image on the screen, composite will only carry a resolution of 480i; 576i for the highest quality models. However, these are older standards and the component cables have since improved on the resolution of the picture, and they are able to optimally display high-definition images at 1080p or higher. The only real limitation on resolution comes down to the capabilities of the device presenting the video image.

 

Even though the differences may appear to be slight, people are opting for component adapters because the technology used for composite adapters is dying out. They were used for older devices that do not support component video technology.

 

The only real drawback with component video is that signals are transmitted through waveforms, in comparison to DVI and HDMI cables that transmit clearer signals for both audio and video through binary code. This means that they are susceptible to interference from nearby equipment.

 

That’s not to say that component adapters are not heavily used, but, eventually, they will be phased out in favor of adapters and cables that transmit all their signals digitally. At the same time, it will be a few years before they start being phased out, so there is no need to worry about using outdated technology. Plus, component video technology still provides high-quality footage!

How to Keep Fiber Optic Cables in Premium Condition

by Fiber-MART.COM

In any discussion about telephone systems, cable TV, or the internet, you are likely to hear the term “fiber optic cables” thrown in at least a time or two. The reason that fiber optic cables are such a common topic is the sheer number of purposes they serve. These services range from enabling telephone, cable, and internet systems to function. As if that doesn’t cover enough ground, medical imaging, mechanical engineering inspection, and sewer line inspection are some of the many applications that also rely heavily on fiber optic cables.

 

What are fiber optic cables?

 

Fiber optic cables are long strands of optically pure glass with about the diameter of a human hair. These strands are arranged in bundles and used to transmit light signals that are capable of carrying digital information over long distances. Given their obvious value, it is particularly important for fiber optic cables to be maintained and kept in the best condition possible.

 

Fiber Optic Cable Care and Use

 

Fiber optic cables are durable, but if mishandled or not cared for properly, they will become worn and damaged over time and the quality of their performance will suffer. Sometimes, it’s just as important to know what you shouldn’t do as it is to know what you should do. With that in mind, here are a few of the main dos and don’ts when it comes to handling and maintaining fiber optic cables.

 

When removing the connector, do not pull or twist the cable. Pulling on the cable may cause the optical fiber inside the cable to break, or remove the cable sheath from the optical connector.

 

Be careful when bending, folding, or pinching the optical fiber cable. Much like pulling the cable, excessive bending, folding, or pinching can break the fiber optic inside the cable. An optical fiber cable should have a bend radius of 30 mm or more. 

 

Avoid hitting the end of an optical connector against any hard surface. Hard surfaces are not by any means limited to brick and concrete. Whacking the end of a connector on your desk or the floor can damage the end of the connector, degrade the connection, or lose the connection altogether.

 

Do not hang anything using a cable. This may sound obvious, but it can’t be stressed enough that hanging something by a cable can severely damage the inside of the cable.

 

Do not touch the end of a broken fiber optic cable. If a cable is broken, touching the end of it will do no good and may cause an injury by piercing the skin.

 

Keep optical connectors assembled. Disassembling the connectors may cause a part to break or lead to diminishing performance.

 

How to Store Fiber Optic Cables

 

Ideally, fiber optic cables should be stored inside, protected from the elements. The reel tag that comes with the cable should be kept so the cable’s origin can be traced in the future, if necessary. Fiber optic cable reels should be stored standing by or supported on both flanges. Sitting it one flange surface will cause strands of cable to gravitate toward one end of the reel. When the cable gathers at one end of the reel, the odds of it being damaged during the unwinding process increase exponentially. If you band your rolls of cable to pallets, the band you use should be placed through the hole in the middle of the reel. The flanges, not the cable package, should come in contact with the pallet. As we discussed, contact with any hard surface can be damaging to the cables.

 

Respooling Requirements for Fiber Optic Cables

 

There are a few simple rules when it comes to respooling cable. When choosing a reel size, ensure that it does not exceed the minimum bend radius of the cable. Also, when respooling the cable, make sure that it is evenly distributed evenly throughout the reel. Respool from and to the top of the reel, ensuring that the cable is snug on the respooler drum and that the cable is not being twisted as it’s being reeling up. Once you’re done respooling, allow a minimum of a 1 to 2 inches between the flange edges and the last cable wrap.

 

Conclusion

 

Fiber optic cables play a major role in our everyday lives, so it’s crucial that they’re kept in premium condition. By following careful handling, proper storage, and meticulous respooling practices, this is easier than it might seem.