A Tutorial on Centralized Optical Fiber Cabling Networks

Figure 1 In the traditional cabling design, cables run to active telecommunications closets locatedA Tutorial on within 328 feet of users. Each closet contains active network electronics. Therefore, the spacerequires power, air-conditioning and grounding. Category 5 copper cables connect closets to users.CentralizedOptical FiberCabling Networks HUBHUBHUBby Douglas E. Harshbargerand George SellardHUBHUBll-optical fiber centralizedlocal area networks (LANs)HUBA are the present wave in net-work cabling. In increasing num-bers, network planners are takingHUBadvantage of optical fiber’s virtuallyFIBERunlimited bandwidth and low sig-OPTICSHUBnal loss (attenuation) to implementa centralized design. All data elec-tronics are housed in a single loca-HUBtion and optical fiber cablesprovide direct connections to everyworkstation outlet in the network. n Passive patch panels use jumper of failure and reduced telecommu-Contrast this with the traditional and intrabuilding cables in inter- nications closet build-out costs.design, where active electronics, mediate closets. Consolidating network electronics,hubs, concentrators and switches With direct connections between analyzers, uninterruptible powerare housed in telecommunications network hardware and desktops, sources (UPSs), cross-connects andclosets that are distributed through- maintenance and troubleshooting servers in a single communicationsout a building and within 328 feet are vastly ...