Enhance Your Network With 40G QSFP+ AOC

To meet the requirements for higher bandwidth and throughput, 40 Gigabit Ethernet has become a trend for data transmission. A series of 40G equipment are designed to achieve the seamless interconnection in the 40G network. Devices like 40G fiber optic transceivers and 40G direct attach cables are widely used for the high speed transmission. 40G direct attach cables (DAC) are optimal solutions for short range connectivity. It can be further divided into the direct attach copper cable and active optical cable (AOC). This article will focus on presenting you some cost-effective 40G QSFP+ AOC solutions to improve your network.

Basic Knowledge of Active Optical Cable

AOC is a cabling technology that accepts the same electrical inputs as a traditional copper cable, but uses optical fiber “between the connectors”. It adopts electrical-to-optical conversion on the cable ends to improve speed and distance performance of the cable without sacrificing compatibility with standard electrical interfaces. AOC is especially used for short-range multi-lane data communication and interconnect applications. It is made up of the multimode optic fiber, control chip and different connectors with one end terminated with QSFP+ connector and the other end terminated with QSFP+, SFP+, LC or else connectors.

Reasons for Choosing 40G QSFP+ AOC

However, why do we often use 40G QSFP+ AOC instead of 40GBASE-SR4 QSFP+ module? In fact, 40G QSFP+ AOC has many benefits that will provoke your interest for choosing it. First is the lower cost compared to the module since the AOC saves the need for extra fiber patch cables. Second is the low insertion and return loss. Although it is used for the same transmission distance, the repeatability and interchangeability performances of 40G AOC are better than 40GBASE-SR4 module. Thirdly, under the four-quadrant test, which is used to test whether the product still keeps better performance even under the lowest and highest voltage and temperature situations, the AOCs are qualified to meet all the demands.

40G QSFP+ AOC Solutions

Here provides some common 40G QSFP+ AOC solutions that are welcome in the market.

• Solution 1: 40G QSFP+ to QSFP+ AOC

Each end of this AOC has a QSFP+ connector used for 40G data propagation. The maximum length can reach up to 100 meters. It is a 40 Gbps parallel active optical cable which transmits error-free parallel 4x10 Gbps data over multimode fiber (MMF) ribbon cables.

• Solution 2: 40G QSFP+ to 4xSFP+ AOC

QSFP+ to 4x SFP+ AOC is a breakout cable offering the professionals a cost-effective interconnect solution for merging 40G QSFP+ and 10G SFP+ between devices of adapters, switches and servers. Users can install this AOC between an available QSFP+ port on their 40Gbps rated switch and feed up to four upstream 10G SFP+ enabled switches.

• Solution 3: 40G QSFP+ to 8xLC AOC

This is also a breakout AOC with a QSFP+ connector on one end and 8xLC connectors on the other. It is a high performance, low power consumption, long reach interconnect solution supporting the 40G Ethernet compliant with the QSFP+ MSA and IEEE P802.3ba 40GBASE-SR4. It is an assembly of 4 full-duplex lanes. Each lane is able to transmit up to 10 Gbps data rate providing an aggregated rate of 40 Gbps.

Conclusion

Along with the popularity of 40G Ethernet, the market of 40G QSFP+ AOC has been growing over the years. It is definitely a better choice for high speed transmission over short distances. Additionally, if you are looking for higher bandwidth AOCs, there are also 100G QSFP28 AOC and 120G CXP AOC suitable for your needs.

source:http://www.fiber-optic-cable-sale.com/enhance-network-40g-qsfp-aoc.html

How to DIY Ethernet Cables?

Buying the Ethernet cables in stores is probably a common way for average people. However, have you ever met the problem that the cable length is too long or too short? It is so difficult to find the most appropriate cable length at ordinary stores for your network. Especially when the cable is too long, the extra length may end up becoming a mess at your place. In order to solve this issue, why not make your own Ethernet cables? You can create your desired length and the procedures are fairly simple. This post will guide you to make a DIY Ethernet cable.

Essential Tools and Materials

Before you get started, there are some necessary tools and materials needed during the procedure. Wire cutter or wire stripper is used for the task of cutting and stripping wires. RJ45 cable crimping tool can make your cable’s data plug a permanent part of your new cable. RJ45 data plugs are important materials which can be found at many cable stores. Some plugs are labeled specifically Cat 6 or Cat 5e, you can buy specific ones if your network needs one or the other. And you should prepare the bulk Cat 5, Cat 5e, Cat 6 or other Ethernet cables according to your needs. Sometimes, having a cable tester is better since it will save time and prevent headaches down the line when you have a problem with a cable or connection.

Which Wiring Schemes?

Ethernet cables have several standard wiring schemes. T568A and T568B are the common wiring schemes which define the order of the individual wires and pin-outs for eight-pin modular connectors and jacks. If the cable is used for home-networking connections, T568B wiring scheme is recommended. T568A wiring scheme may be employed for the preexisting residential network wiring or other similar projects. The following figure presents the different wiring orders of T568A and T568B.

Ethernet Cable DIY Steps

After all the preparations, now you are ready to make your own Ethernet cable. Follow these steps and you will soon have your first self-made cable.

• Step 1, measure the cable to the proper length you want. And don’t forget to add an inch or two because you may lose a bit of cable during the process. Then use the tool to cut down the cable.

• Step 2, remove the outer jacket of the cable. A good way to do so is to cut lengthwise with snips or a knife along the side of the cable, away from yourself, about an inch toward the open end. Also leave an inch to an inch and a half if you are green hand.

• Step 3, untwist and straighten the wires, then arrange the wires into the desired scheme order.

• Step 4, once your wires are in the correct order, trim the excess away. Only leave slightly less wire to be fit inside the RJ45 clip. And hold the wires in place with your fingers and insert them all at once into the data plug.

• Step 5, place your data plug into your crimping tool and give it a firm squeeze. And you just finally complete your Ethernet cable.

Conclusion

If condition permits, using the cable tester to test the Ethernet cable before installation is recommended. Getting this new skill, you will no more worry about the cable length, you can make them as long or as short as you want. Enjoy using your DIY Ethernet cable!

source:http://www.fiber-optical-networking.com/diy-ethernet-cables.html

How to Install Aerial Fiber Optic Cables?

When you walk on the street, have you noticed at the fiber cables hanging on the poles overhead? These cables are commonly called as aerial fiber cables, which are widely used for outside plant (OSP) installation on poles. Aerial fiber cables are designed to accommodate the severe environment preventing the destruction of the nature and man-made damage or theft. There are also different types of aerial fiber optic cables. This article will describe the common installation ways and things to notice during installation.

Types of Aerial Optical Cables

Aerial fiber optic cables can be classified into the catenary wire style and the self-supporting style according to different installing ways. The catenary wire style refers to the general outdoor loose tube cables which can be lashed into a messenger. The self-supporting style refers to the ADSS (all-dielectric self-supporting) cables. They are made to support their own weight and environmental conditions such as wind and ice. Figure 8 self-supporting aerial fiber optic cables are the common ADSS cables designed for easy and economical one-step installation over long haul network communication.

Aerial Cable Installation Guides

Before Installation

• Point 1, before the aerial cable installations, making a proper plan is very necessary. All the parties including utilities, street department and so on should be present in the cable route survey. And the plan should be approved by all the parties.
• Point 2, sufficient clearances must be maintained between fiber optic cables and electrical power cables on joint-use poles.
• Point 3, existing dead-end pole must be evaluated to see whether they can withstand the stresses during aerial cable installation. You have to evaluate whether temporary guying is needed in order to relieve the temporary unbalanced loading during cable installation.
• Point 4, splice locations are usually selected during the cable route survey. They are chosen to allow for the longest possible continuous cable spans and a minimum number of splices. They should be easily accessible to a splicing vehicle.
• Point 5, remember aerial installation should never be done in wet conditions. And make sure all personnel are properly trained for pole line work.

Installation Methods

According to different aerial cable types, there are generally two installation ways. First is to lash a fiber optic cable to a steel messenger. A steel messenger is first installed between the poles. Then a cable reel trailer and truck are used to pull the cable along the messenger. A cable guide and cable lasher are used to wrap around both the messenger and the fiber cable to secure the fiber cable to the messenger. Following the cable lasher is an aerial bucket truck which makes necessary adjustments. At each pole, the fiber optic cable forms an expansion loop to allow for expansion of the messenger. The expansion loop's sizes have both a length and a depth, and its length should be larger than twice its depth. The fiber cable should also maintain its minimum bending radius at all times.

Another way is the direct installation of self-supporting figure 8 aerial cables. It greatly simplifies the task of placing fiber optic cables onto an aerial plant. The self-supporting figure 8 cable incorporates both a steel messenger and the fiber cable into a single jacket of figure 8 cross section. The combination of strand and optical fiber into a single cable allows rapid one-step installation and results in a more durable aerial plant.

During Installation

You should watch out for your safety during cable installation. Here are some tips for you to follow:

• Tip 1, ensure that the tools and equipment used for the cable installation are in proper working order. Improperly functioning equipment may damage cables or cause injury to personnel.
• Tip 2, be careful when working near electrical hazards if electric lines are passing through or near the right-of-way where installation is being performed.
• Tip 3, before pulling cable directly from a figure 8 configuration, make sure that the area inside the loop of the cable is clear of personnel and equipment. Failure to do so may result in injury to the personnel or damage to the cable.

Conclusion

Installing cables is not an easy thing, especially for aerial cable installations. Extra concentration and patience are needed during the installation. The actual situation is usually much more complex than we talked right here. You need to adjust your plans according to real conditions.

source:http://www.fiber-optic-cable-sale.com/install-aerial-fiber-optic-cables.html

40G QSFP+ Fiber Optic Transceiver Selection Guide

Demand for higher bandwidth has never stopped. Along with the IEEE 802.3ba 40Gbps Ethernet standard published in 2010, 40G QSFP+ (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable) fiber optic transceivers have been designed to solve the issues during 40G migration. Today, many kinds of 40G QSFP+ modules are widely applied to data centers. However, do you know which one is most suitable for your network? Don’t panic, this article will guide you to know the basic considerations for 40G QSFP+ transceivers selection.

Common 40G QSFP+ Transceiver Types

Here are some ordinary 40G QSFP+ types. Let’s have a look at their differences:

• 40GBASE-SR4

It reaches 40 Gbps Ethernet over four short-range multimode fiber optic cables and supports link lengths of 100m and 150m respectively on laser-optimized OM3 and OM4 multimode fiber cables. Because of the 850nm vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) modulation limits, the multimode fiber uses parallel-optics transmission instead of serial transmission. Parallel-optics transmission uses a parallel optical interface where data is simultaneously transmitted and received over multiple fibers and the interfaces are 4x10G channels on four fibers per direction.

• 40GBASE-LR4

It reaches 40-Gbps Ethernet over four wavelengths carried by a single long-distance single-mode fiber optic cable and supports link lengths of up to 10 km over single-mode fiber with duplex LC connectors. It operates at a wavelength of 1310 nm. The 40 Gigabit Ethernet signal is carried over four wavelengths with 10G on each wave. Multiplexing and demultiplexing of the four wavelengths are managed within the device. It is designed to use in switches, routers and data center equipment where it provides higher density and lower cost when compared with standard SFP+ modules.

• 40GBASE-CR4

It is a direct attach cable segment with the QSFP+ modules attached to each end of the cable. It reaches 40-Gbps Ethernet over four short-range twinaxial copper cables bundled as a single cable and supports link lengths of up to 10 km over a standard pair of G.652 single-mode fiber with duplex LC connectors. The QSFP+ modules are plugged into the QSFP+ ports on the switch or computer interface. Before you choose to use the 40GBASE-CR4 , please make sure the QSFP+ modules on the cable support the QSFP+ port on your switch or computer interface.

Aspects to Consider During Selection

Cable Type

Cables used with fiber optic transceivers should be matched with each other. As for 40G QSFP+ transceivers, 40GBASE-LR4 can be used with single-mode fiber cables for long distance transmission. And 40GBASE-SR4 is recommended to be used with OM3 or OM4 in short distance with lower insertion loss and higher bandwidth.

Connector Type

From the interface of 40G QSFP+ transceiver, we can know the right connector type. Usually, 40G QSFP+ modules uses the MTP (a high performance MPO connector) and LC connectors. But some special transceivers such as 40GBASE-PLR4 and 40GBASE-PLRL4 will use the MPO interfaces.

Transmission Distance

Just like the common transceivers, 40G QSFP+ modules have different transmission range, such as 100m, 150m, 300m, 1km, 2km, etc. You can decide your transceiver type according to the transmission distance you need.

Wavelength

Wavelength is also an important aspect to consider which 40G QSFP+ transceiver to choose. For example, 40GBASE-SR4 transmit and receive channels in the 832nm to 918nm wavelength range. Make sure the transceiver is working at the right wavelength for your network.

Conclusion

Certainly, many other parameters should also be considered as selection basis. If you are not sure which type to choose, better ask the professionals for help. In order to achieve a high speed network, 40G QSFP+ modules are the necessary solutions. The right selection will contribute a lot to your network transmission.

source:http://www.sfp-transceiver-modules.com/wiki/a/116/40G-QSFP+-Fiber-Optic-Transceiver-Selection-Guide

Applications of 3G-SDI Video SFP

At the data rate of 3 Gbps, using HD-SDI (high-definition serial digital interface) fiber converter may cause problems for video displaying, such as splash screen, black or blue screen and lagging frame. Is there any good solution to solve this problem? Definitely, 3G-SDI video SFP (small form-factor pluggable) transceiver is designed to meet the relevant demands. This article will guide you to know the basic information about 3G-SDI video SFP and its common applications.

What Is 3G-SDI?

With the wide deployment of fiber optics, the HD (high-definition) video transmission over fiber is no longer a dream. We are familiar with the HD video interface such as HDMI (high-definition multimedia interface), HD-SDI, HD-CVI (high-definition composite video interface) and so on. But what is 3G-SDI?

3G-SDI is an updated version of HD-SDI which can offer nominal data rates of 1.485 Gbit/s (dual link) and 2.970 Gbit/s serial link, respectively. 3G-SDI system can support the digital video signals with SMPTE424M, SMPTE292M, SMPTE259M, SMPTE297M , SMPTE305M and SMPTE310M standards, as well as the DVB-ASI (EN50083-9) format digital video signals. Similar with HD-SDI, 3G-SDI is generally used for the television broadcasting. But as the technology advances, it is now widely applied in global security applications such as high-end surveillance or unmanned systems, allowing simple designs or upgrades with full HD cameras.

3G-SDI Video SFP & Related Products

A variety of 3G-SDI video products have been launched in the market. These equipment include 3G-SDI extenders, 3G-SDI distribution amplifiers, 3G-SDI matrix switchers and so on. They are adopted with 3G pathological signal but can also be compatible with 1.5G pathological signal for long-distance transmission, meeting the diversified demands of users.

However, though there are many 3G-SDI equipment in the market, most of the products cannot pass the SDI pathological-code test. In this case, if the video signals are transmitted in an irregular bitrate, the issues that are mentioned in the beginning of the article may occur. This phenomenon will happen especially under the operation of 3Gbps (i.e., 1080p application) rather than 1.5G (720p or 1080i application). Why? Excluding the factors of equipment quality and brand differences, the cost factor may be the main reason. In the current market, most of the HD-SDI converters employ the ordinary SFP optics, namely the 1.25G or 2.5G digital SFP to replace the specific video SFP. Inevitably, the error rate increases when transmission bit rate is irregular. Since the application field of HD-SDI converter requires higher quality frames, it is very necessary to use the specific 3G-SDI video SFP to avoid these problems and ensure the high definition and smooth frames of the video.

3G-SDI module is designed in SFP package which is compliant with SFP Multi-Source Agreement (MSA) and SFF-8472. 3G-SDI module can be designed with different form factor such as dual or single transmitter, dual or single receiver, duplex or BiDi (bi-directional) transceiver (transceiver & receiver). According to the operation wavelengths, 3G-SDI module can be used in multimode or single-mode application—works on 850nm wavelength to support up to 300m transmission distance over multimode fiber and 1310 or 1550nm wavelengths to support 10km or 80km transmission distance over single-mode fiber. In addition, 3G-SID CWDM SFP modules are also available in the market. Furthermore, 3G-SDI SFP module also support DDM (digital diagnostic monitoring) function to monitor extensive output optical power, bias current, supply voltage and operating temperature etc.

3G-SDI Video SFP Application Cases

Similar to the ordinary SFP module that is used in the switch to transmit and receive the signals, 3G-SDI SFP module is for the same purpose but used in the HD-SDI equipment. It plays an important role in the application of digital video extension over fiber. Three classical 3G-SDI SFP application cases (over SMF) are shown in the following:

Case 1: Using a 3G-SDI SFP transmitter for transmitting the signals and a 3G-SDI SFP receiver for receiving the signals over a simplex SMF. This is the most basic case of the HD-SDI video transmission.

Case 2: Using 3G-SDI SFP transceivers which can both transmit and receive over a duplex LC SMF.

Case 3: Using a pairs of 3G-SDI BiDi SFP transceiver which can both transmit and receive over a simplex LC SMF. This solution can help save more cost on fiber.

Conclusion

3G-SDI SFP transceiver is a cost-effective solution for transmitting and receiving high-definition video signals. Our website provides a series of 3G-SDI SFP covering the wavelengths of 850 nm, 1310 nm, 1550 nm, CWDM band, BiDi 1310/1490 nm and BiDi 1310/1550 nm. Each one is tested to be fully compatible with Cisco, Arista, Juniper, Dell, Brocade and other brands.

source:http://www.sfp-transceiver-modules.com/wiki/a/115/Applications-of-3G-SDI-Video-SFP

Things You Need to Know About ADSS Fiber Cables

When it comes to OSP (outside plant) deployment, many types of fiber optic cables are used for different OSP applications. ADSS (all-dielectric self-supporting) cable is the type that is strong enough to support itself between structures without using conductive metal elements. It is often installed along aerial transmission lines to be a communication medium for electrical utility companies. Both single-mode and multimode fibers can be arranged in ADSS cables. And when using single-mode fibers, the cable can carry the maximum of 144 fibers. But do you know the basic structures of ADSS cable? What are the advantages of using ADSS cable? And how can you prevent ADSS cable from damage? This article will give you all the answers.

Structures of ADSS Cable

There are generally two kinds of structures for ADSS cable. One is called as central tube structure. From the following picture, the fiber of a certain length is placed in a PBT loose tube filled with water-blocking material. Then it is wrapped with aramid yarn according to the desired tensile strength and extruded with PE or AT sheath. This structure has a smaller diameter and lighter weight. But the fiber length is limited.

The other type of structure is called as stranded structure. The following picture shows that the fiber loose tubes are surrounding around a central strength member (usually as FRP material). And the rest parts are similar to the central tube structure. This type is able to obtain longer fiber length. Although the diameter and weight is relatively big, it is better to be deployed for large span applications.

Benefits of ADSS Cable

There are many advantages of using ADSS cable. The overall weight and diameter of the cable are small which is a relief to the towers and poles. And its total transmission range is large enough to reach up to 1200 meters. Using the polyethylene sheath will also protect the cable from corrosive effect. ADSS cable’s non-metallic structure makes it possible to be anti-lightning. And the aramid yarn helps the cable to have good tensile performance and temperature performance under extreme weathers. The maximum lifespan of ADSS fiber cables can even reach up to thirty years.

Precautions for ADSS Cable Damage

• Point 1, since many cables are running through mountainous areas, it is inevitable that the cables will be scratched or bent when come across trees or rocks. Especially for the cable sheath damage, it will greatly harm the service life of cable because the surface can be corroded once exposed to the dust and salty environment. Thus, the cable installation should be under careful examination and monitoring.
• Point 2, due to the partial force during the line construction, common accidents like broken fiber and high loss point can be occurred. Lots of people think it is the problem of cable quality, but actually it is because of the wrong construction process. Therefore, taking control of the constant tension at a uniform speed during installation is very important.
• Point 3, another common damage is the broken fiber at strain towers. This is because of the wrong operation or partial force on fibers. During the construction, installers must pay attention to the proper angle and pulling direction of fibers to avoid such accidents.

Conclusion

ADSS fiber cable is ideal for installation in distribution as well as transmission environments. It does not need support or messenger wire, a single pass is sufficient for installation which make it a cost-effective and simple way of setting up fiber optic networks. With careful installation, this type of fiber optic cable can bring much convenience for the proper application.

source:http://www.fiber-optical-networking.com/things-need-know-adss-fiber-cables.html

Considerations for Setting up a Small Server Room

Generally speaking, data center is designed to keep the continuous operation of computer servers in an entire building or station. Likewise, server room is also devoted to this purpose but with a much smaller space. If you are only running a small business, then a small server room is enough. But you should not think that a small server room does not need proper building plan. Actually, having a solid design is very necessary to prevent future headaches. Well-organized server room ensures the effectiveness and viability of your business. This article will provide you with some considerations for setting up a small server room.

Select Right Sized Rack

With the growth of company, equipment may pile up day by day. It is dangerous to expose these equipment randomly to the working environment. A minor accident like coffee spill or stumble can cause great loss. Gladly, using server racks will effectively solve these unnecessary problems. But how to choose the suitable racks? Most importantly, server racks with sufficient inner space is beneficial to future equipment expansion. Today, server racks are usually in free-standing style or wall-mounted style. But you need to remember that no matter which type you choose, following the installation instructions can secure your racks from rack movement which may cause further disruption and damage.

Isolate Servers to Prevent Noise

If budget permits, having a separate server room can both effectively reduce the equipment noise and secure the equipment from theft, physical tampering, and accidents. However, small company may have no choice but to place the rack in the corner of the room. Therefore racks with sound-dampening properties are welcome to be set up within such small areas. Completely soundproofing is impossible, but overall sound reduction can be achieved.

Get Control of the Heat

High temperature in your server rack will dramatically shorten equipment lifespan or even lead to crashes or outages. For the safety of the equipment, environment and company, you need cooling strategies to control the heat. Installing air-conditioning units is a good way to keep your equipment cool and lower the surrounding temperature. Also, a structured cabling will contribute to the heat control.

Keep Good Cable Management

Do not regard cable management as an unnecessary trifle. Sometimes it is the hidden danger in the future. You’d better keep good cable management right from the start. Properly bundling cables together behind equipment allows easier access to servers. When bundling your cables, it’s common practice to bundle by server and then group those bundles together. Related tools such as cable ties can be used to support the management process.

Use Labels to Mark Everything

Another tip for managing your sever room in good order is to label all the cables. In this way, you can easily identify the right cable within a short time. Other accidents like systems being unplugged or restarted without warning can also be prohibited. When labeling your cables, you should include the information of where the cable connects to and from and a unique ID identifying the cable. Nowadays, many types of cable ties are available with the marking function.

Conclusion

Server room is an essential part of your company which contains all the important pieces that keep your business operating smoothly. Setting up a nice server room can keep your equipment away from damage and increase the working efficiency. Of course, if you are not professional, consulting a specialist for help is always recommended.

source:http://www.fiber-optic-cable-sale.com/considerations-for-setting-up-a-small-server-room.html