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The constant rise in data traffic, demands for high levels of performance, along with the increasing adoption of smart devices, are continuing to put a strain on data center capabilities, with many organizations considering fiber optic networks. In this article, we look at five key benefits of investing in MPO/MTP cable solutions – just in case you haven’t already. But, before we do, here is a quick overview of MPO and MTP and some common uses.
MPO or MTP terminated cables provide an easy-to-install cabling system, dispensing with the need to have each multi-fiber cable connection to be welded by a skilled technician.
The terms MPO and MTP are used interchangeably. MPO is the fiber optic connector at the end of the cable, with MPO standing for “Multi-fiber Push On”. MPO connectors were originally developed to conform to IEC standards. MTP (Multi-fiber Termination Push-on) is a high-performance MPO connector that is manufactured by US Conec and conforms to the MPO specifications. So, MTP is a specific brand of MPO with some enhancements. Both of the connectors are used in MPO cable solutions and are 100% compatible with each other.
Typically used in data centers, MPO / MTP cable systems are modular in design, which makes it easy to install them and easy to add extra fiber capacity, increase to higher data rates or expand the network as the need arises. Read on to find out more about some specific areas where MPO / MTP cable systems can really make a difference.
01. Increase cabling density with MPO/MTP cable systems
Traditional cables only have a single pair of fibers. MPO/MTP cables are available in configurations from 8 to 32 fibers in a single cable, so, it is probably stating the obvious (but worth underlining), that one of the key benefits in moving to the technology is enhanced data rate performance – with MPO/MTP cable systems increasing density by up to 32 times.
02. Simply bridge the gap between existing 10G or 25G systems to newer 40 / 100G
With constant changes to technology, upgrades and new installations, maintaining a data center is always a challenge. MPO/MTP breakout cables can help bridge the gap between existing 10G or 26G systems and newer 40G/100G, with an MPO/MTP connector on one end, and “break-outs” of LC connectors (8 or 12) at the other end. Integrating the two systems can reduce the cost and time taken to upgrade and transition old to new. What is more, standardized pre-terminated cables can save all the time and effort that would normally go into crimping RJ45 cables, and streamline complex cabling into carefully arranged stacks. This should save more than a few minutes of your time!
03. Drastically reduce the amount of cabling in your data center
Replacing this complexity (and the cocoons of cables that seem to infest some data center racks using traditional methods) with a reduced number of higher fiber density MPO/MTP cables which take up less physical space, also has the added advantage of allowing air to flow more efficiently around the data center and therefore reducing cooling requirement. Feel the breeze!
04. Modular pre-manufactured / terminated systems save a lot of time (no onsite splicing!)
The modular approach to MPO/MTP cable solutions, with pre-manufactured adapter panels and cassettes also makes life easier by guiding all those tiny fibers, which would normally need to be individually arranged in every switch, into organized bunches or segments. With the huge number of cables required in a typical data center, this modular approach can help get you organized and save yet additional time. No on-site splicing, less headaches and, potentially, more weekends off!
05. Reduce signal offset for super high fiber optic performance
If your business (you are in high-frequency trading, for example) demands a high performance/low latency network, one important thing to consider is signal offset (alternatively known as “delay skew” or “propagation”). To maintain high performance within a fiber optic connection it is crucial that the signal offset or skew between the parallel connections is kept to an absolute minimum. This is the only way that the information being sent can be synchronized and re-combined successfully at its final destination. MPO/MTP cable systems enable signal offset to be measured and minimized. Job done!
Before MPO/MTP
After MPO/MTP
Weekends off…
MPO/MTP cable systems are definitely the way forward, with key advantages in organizing, managing and structuring the data center, simplifying upgrades and installations, integrating old with new, as well as reducing precious resource time and improving network performance.
Learn more about MPO cable systems and solutions here >
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With the continuing need for access to higher bandwidths for residential and business users, PON continues to be important for Fiber to the Home (FTTH) and Fiber to the Building (FTTB). Read the blog to find out more.
Read more >We look at where to consider using low-cost, quick to install AOC cabling and the differences between AOC and DAC.
Read more >High-performance Direct Attach Cables (DAC) offer a very cost-effective, efficient and simple way of connecting between network equipment.
Read more >Our comprehensive portfolio of fiber optical networking solutions enables us to offer our customers a solution tailored to their specific network demands.
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