There are several reasons why fiber cables are replacing copper cables for many computer room applications. The most important reason is the need for much higher bandwidth for HDTV systems and high-definition conferencing. This requires higher speeds to meet information needs, and fiber cable has much more available bandwidth than copper cable.
Another important reason for this trend is that the connectors of fiber cables (especially LC) are smaller than those of copper cables and require less space on the backplane of servers, switches and routers necessary for the data system. This is why manufacturers are switching to LC connectors on some of their servers and switches.
Fiber cables are preferable in many cases where power lines run in close proximity to data cables to avoid electromagnetic crosstalk to which fiber cables are immune. Where there are air conditioners and/or fan motors, which may be required for the computer system and are close to data cabling, the use of fiber cables will prevent crosstalk interference with data signals.
Distance considerations are also of great importance in setting up a computer room data system. With fiber cables, we can extend the distances that we can run high-speed data compared to copper cables. Where there are legacy copper cabling systems that need to remain operational, there are media converters that interface with the fiber system with MTP 12 fiber bulk termination connector ports and also have multiple RJ 45 ports on the front that interface with the Copper cables. Smaller media converters are also available that interface with one or two copper duplex ports on the input and convert the signal to one or two fiber duplex output ports for 10/100/1000 gigabit Ethernet systems. By utilizing these devices, the existing legacy system can be expanded to interact with more remote systems than was previously possible.
If you have hundreds of copper cables running from the servers to the switches, it may impede airflow under the computer room floor. If you’re dealing with a smaller, thinner fiber cable, you don’t set up a huge blockage to airflow. If you have to go through walls between computer rooms, the holes needed are much smaller and easier to stop. The weight of the cables supported by the rail at the top of the cabinets is also considerably less and considerably less bulky.
The LC Cassette Module is a compact, high-density fiber optic solution for saving equipment cabinet space and allowing data to travel longer distances. The LC cassette module is a distribution module that has one or two twelve fiber MTP connectors on one side connected to twelve or 24 fiber connectors, such as LC, on the other side. It is protected in a metal box that gives good protection to the fiber. The cassette can be easily changed during a maintenance cycle. The LC connector is half the size of the SC connector, helping to reduce the space required.
The cassettes reside in rack-mount or wall-mount fiber distribution cabinets that house 3, 6, 9, or 12 cassettes. Each cassette can handle 12 or 24 fibers. Fiber optic cables are high-density multi-fiber trunk cables terminated in MTP connectors that can be quickly pulled or routed from point A to point B. Using a cassette or transition cable assembly, the data center designer can divide the 12 or 24 fibers of each MTP connector in simplex or duplex connectivity. Fiber is pre-tested, pre-terminated, and essentially plug and play. The error that can occur from pulling individual strands through multiple floors, as well as polishing and finishing, does not occur. To expand to new servers, you can drop a trunk cable with MTP connectivity and be up and running very quickly. All cabling or cassettes do not have to be installed upfront with the necessary capital expense. MTP fiber cables include 24, 36, 48, 72, or 144 fibers. The network can be implemented as servers and switches increase.