Cim 20071001 oct_2007

Contents Zoom In Zoom Out For navigation instructions please click here Search Issue Next Page Solutions for Premises and Campus Communication Systems Worldwide October 2007 www.cablinginstall.com _____________________ UTP cabling performance up close The not so intimidating OTDR Contents Zoom In Zoom Out For navigation instructions please click here Search Issue Next Page

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F Exceptional optical performance comes naturally. Nothing is more treasured in field termination than exceptional optical performance. The secret to UniCam® Pretium™- Performance Connectors is inside – a laser-cleaved, factory-polished fiber stub that ensures outstanding connectivity in a no-epoxy/no-polish (NENP) connector. UniCam Pretium-Performance Multimode Connectors offer 0.1 dB insertion loss. And UniCam Pretium-Performance Single-Mode Connectors enable 0.2 dB insertion loss. That’s exceptional optical performance in less than a minute per fiber, from the most widely deployed NENP connector on the market. Naturally ... Customer-focused innovation is second nature at Corning. www.corning.com/cablesystems/cimls © 2007 Corning Cable Systems LLC / LS-02413 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F ICC’s delivery! Competitor’s delivery. ALL NEW 10 Gig Fiber Optic Jumpers! Polarization-Maintaining alignment...better than 0.1° Lowest Insertion Loss of 0.2dB 10Gig laser optimized 100% individually tested Meets ANSI/UL 1666-1997 standards MPO, LC, and SC styles Save 40% or more... The difference? Excellent customer service, Toll Free: 888.ASK.4.ICC E-mail: csr@icc.com technical support, and product delivery! Web: www.icc.com PremiumProducts • ProvenPerformance • CompetitivePrices...ICC © Copyright 2007, ICC. ICC and ICC logo are registered trade name and trademark. All rights reserved. 1007 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F Our U.S. delivery area. No matter where you’re located, our fiber optic cable products are there. Optical Cable Corporation has built a network of reliable stocking distributors and a dedicated sales team committed to getting you the best fiber optic cables for your requirements when you need them...where you need them. For over 20 years, we have been manufacturing the broadest range of top-performing tight-buffered fiber optic cables for most applications in the government, military, and commercial markets. Your order is our top priority. Contact Optical Cable Corporation for a stocking distributor nearest you. We are where you are. 1-800-622-7711 5290 Concourse Drive • Roanoke, Virginia 24019 Phone 540-265-0690 • www.occfiber.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F COVER CONCEPT BY DAN RODD OCTOBER 2007 VOL. 15, NO. 10 ABOUT THE COVER Used primarily in long- haul OSP applications, features 9 fusion splicing is now an alternative to field A close examination of terminations in the data UTP cabling performance center due to its effectiveness Answers to many of the”why” questions associated in meeting critical density with the installation and maintenance of unshielded and performance demands. TO LEARN MORE, twisted-pair systems. JAMES ANDRESS SEE PAGE 27. 21 Using an OTDR: How to keep it simple Not just for use in public networks, the optical time- domain reflectometer no longer has to be an intimidating tool. CHRISTIAN SCHILLAB 27 The ins and outs of fusion splicing Still primarily for use in the outside plant, the technology is now seeing deployment in premises applications. BETSY ZIOBRON 35 Enclosures play a role in thermal management Dealing with heat close to its source takes several forms. PATRICK MCLAUGHLIN 39 Surveillance market seeing many IP rumblings Acquisitions, alliances, and increasing attention are more evidence of the shift to Internet Protocol-based systems. PATRICK MCLAUGHLIN departments 6 Editorial 45 INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT ■ Berk-Tek unveils smaller diameter LEED by example 51 New Products fiber cable for data centers 58 Product Focus: ■ A pioneering 40-Gbit optical active cable PATCH PANELS ■ Hybrid connector solution developed for harsh environments ■ Structured cabling system aimed at home, small office markets CABLING INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE (ISSN 1073-3108), a trademark, is published 12 times a year, monthly, by PennWell Corporation, 1421 South Sheridan Road, Tulsa, OK 74112; telephone (918) 835-3161; fax (918) 831-9497; Web address www.pennwell.com. Editorial offices: 98 Spit Brook Road, Nashua, NH 03062-5737; telephone (603) 891-0123. © 2007 CABLING INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE. All rights reserved. Authorization to photocopy items for internal or personal use, or the internal or personal use of specific clients, is granted by CABLING INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE (ISSN 1073-3108), provided that the appropriate fee is paid directly to Copyright Clearance Center, 222 Rosewood Drive, Danvers, MA 01923 USA; (978) 750-8400. Prior to photocopying items for educational classroom use, please contact Copyright Clearance Center, Inc., 222 Rosewood Drive, Danvers, MA 01923 USA; (978) 750-8400. For further information, check CCC Online at the following address: http://www.copyright.com/. All rights reserved. No material may be reprinted. Bulk reprints can be ordered from Diane Troyer, telephone (603) 891-9135. Corporate officers: Frank T. Lauinger, Chairman; Robert F. Biolchini, President and CEO. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: CABLING INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE, Circulation Dept., P.O. Box 3280, Northbrook, Il 60065-3280. Return undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: P.O. Box 1632, Windsor, ON N9A 7C9. Periodicals postage paid at Tulsa, OK 74101 and other additional offices. Subscriptions: In the U.S.: one year $74; Canada/Int’l surface : one year $84; International via air: one year $100. If available, back issues can be purchased for $16 in the U.S. and $21 elsewhere. We make portions of our subscriber list available to carefully screened companies that offer products and services that may be important for your work. If you do not want to receive those offers and/or information, please let us know by contacting us at List Services, CABLING INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE, 98 Spit Brook Road, Nashua, NH 03062-5737-“Canada return address: PO Box 122, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6S4”. www.cablinginstall.com ______________ Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ October 2007 ■ 3 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F Chief Editor / Patrick McLaughlin (603) 891-9222 • patrick@pennwell.com Executive Editor / Steve Smith LEED by example (603) 891-9139 • stevesm@pennwell.com Senior Editor / Matt Vincent (603) 891-9262 • mattv@pennwell.com At the most recent BICSI Conference, tions, it would be in their best inter- Circulation Manager / Michelle Blake held the second week of September in est to acquire the ability to bid on and (603) 891-9360 • michellb@pennwell.com Las Vegas, I enjoyed the presentation carry out LEED-based contracts. Art Director / Kelli Mylchreest delivered by Bill Weekes, a Registered Even so, I couldn’t shake the irony Lead Illustrator / Dan Rodd Communications Distribution Design- of my own actions immediately fol- er with Fancom Network Integrators lowing that presentation. I got out of Senior Vice President/Group Publishing Director Mark Finkelstein (www.fancomni.com). He provided my chair, grabbed my empty water (603) 891-9133 • mark@pennwell.com firsthand, practical information on a bottle, and looked for something I Associate Publisher/National Sales Manager topic that might knew I wouldn’t find—a recycle bin. Ed Murphy (603) 891-9260 • edm@pennwell.com not be extremely So, I threw the bottle in the trash bar- familiar to many rel, on top of paper products and alu- CABLING INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE in the cabling in- minum cans that also occupied it. EXECUTIVE AND EDITORIAL OFFICES dustry—the Unit- A few years ago, at a different con- PennWell ATD 98 Spit Brook Road ed States Green ference in Las Vegas, I wanted to Nashua, NH 03062-5737 Tel: (603) 891-0123, fax: (603) 891-9245 Building Council’s deposit my empty aluminum can Internet: www.cablinginstall.com Leadership in En- into a recycle bin, so I asked a ergy and Environ- member of the convention center’s SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES: For subscriptions or to change your format to print mental Design (LEED) program. maintenance staff where I could find or digital, please go to: www.cim-subscribe.com. Weekes was not familiar with one. Based on the look she gave me, I Subscriptions outside the USA are available in digital format only. LEED when he first got involved in initially believed she did not under- it, as he freely admitted during his stand English. In fact, she spoke the presentation. In fact, if I remember language fluently as far as I could his story correctly, he was commit- tell; it was the notion of a recycle bin CORPORATE OFFICERS ted to carrying out a certain project that put such a perplexed look on her Chairman / Frank T. Lauinger before learning it would be LEED- face. That’s when I realized the city’s certified, so had to take a crash course punchline of a motto was true on sev- President and Chief Executive Officer Robert F. Biolchini in the topic to go along with on-the- eral levels, and in this case could be Chief Financial Officer / Mark C. Wilmoth job training. That’s where much of the changed to, “What happens here, gets value in his BICSI presentation comes landfilled here.” ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY DIVISION from. Here was an RCDD speaking Expecting a place known as Sin Senior Executive Assistant Carol Woodward to other RCDDs about what it’s really City to provide a positive example of Tel: (603) 891-9112, fax: (603) 891-9287 going to mean to them when they get environmental stewardship is unre- carolw@pennwell.com involved in a project that is gunning alistic. But, as Weekes’ presentation VP Audience Development / Gloria S. Adams for LEED certification. pointed out, when those controlling It doesn’t matter where a project’s the purse strings are thinking envi- ATD PUBLISHING SERVICES DEPARTMENTS tradespeople stand on the sociopo- ronmentally, the dynamic changes. Art Director / Meg Fuschetti litical spectrum when it comes to I’ll be interested to hear more about Production Director / Mari Rodriguez (603) 891-9193 • marir@pennwell.com environmental causes; if the project our industry’s take on LEED. is aiming for LEED certification, and Marketing Communication Manager Kristen Jones these trades want to be paid, they’ll (603) 891-9425 • kristenj@pennwell.com comply with the building owner’s Ad Traffic Manager / Jackie Linker demands for enviro-friendly materi- (918) 832-9314 • jackiel@pennwell.com als, processes, and systems. So, while PATRICK McLAUGHLIN Mc some who saw Weekes present last Chief Editor PRINTED IN THE USA GST NO. 126813153 month might scoff at LEED’s inten- patrick@pennwell.com Publications Mail Agreement Number 40052420 4 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F THE PRESENTATION. THE SIGN-OFF. THE LAST HURDLE TO THE FINAL APPROVAL OF WHAT YOU BELIEVED WAS ALREADY OVER. There comes a moment in every project when each decision you’ve made is put to the test. Success and failure hang in the balance, as closing one deal takes longer than pitching the next. At moments like these, your most crucial decision was actually one of your ﬁrst: your distributor. If it’s Graybar, you’re not on your own. Our nationwide supply chain, local support network and trusted suppliers stand ready for any ‘moment of truth’ you encounter. So keep pushing forward; we’ll be right there. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT GRAYBAR.COM/CORNING OR CALL 1-800-GRAYBAR (472-9227). ___________ C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F Turn your cable tester into an OTDR N E T W O R K S U P E R V I S I O N C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F and watch the transformation begin. See how the DTX Compact OTDR Module can turn your cable tester into an OTDR and your staff into fiber experts – to completely transform your fiber business. Imagine. A cable tester that becomes a compact, easy-to-use, full-featured OTDR. Better yet, imagine what that means for your business. A single tool to test copper and fiber. An OTDR your current technicians can easily use. Fiber jobs you couldn’t do before. Just snap the DTX Compact OTDR module onto a DTX mainframe – the industry’s benchmark for cable certification – now you’re ready to test like a fiber expert. Perform Basic (Tier 1) and Extended (Tier 2) fiber certification. Perform powerful single-ended troubleshooting. Deliver professional documentation. Win jobs that require OTDR testing and watch your revenue and profits increase. Get the new DTX Compact OTDR and watch the transformation begin. Go to www.flukenetworks.com/seehow to enter to win a DTX Compact OTDR and see a live demo. ©2007 Fluke Corporation. All rights reserved. 02177 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F Mohawk’s pre-terminated fiber optic Plug’n Play solutions combine ease of installation with the flexibility to work with any corresponding fiber cassette. Whether long runs or short runs, Mohawk’s Plug’n Play fiber solutions complement data center performance with its compact cable size and maximum flexibility. Features and Benefits: • Pre-terminated cables for premium performance. • Small diameter and bend radius for installation in high density environments. • The MPO terminations allow the cables to plug into any corresponding fiber cassette. • Compliant to TIA-568-C.3. MOHAWK For more information or a copy of our Application Note visit www.mohawk-cable or call 800-422-9961. Cabling Excellence for Open Architecture C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F www.cablinginstall.com design A close examination of UTP cabling performance M ost of us are familiar with the installation specifications that have been Answers to many of the “why” questions associated with the installation and maintenance of UTP systems. written for unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cabling sys- Any information that is transmitted involves the use tems. These specifications include such topics as pair of frequencies or bits, even including 60-hertz alternat- untwist, bend radius, and pulling tension. And while ing current (AC) power. Information includes voice, mu- we are familiar with these standard requirements, sic, radio, data, video, television, or even light, as in fiber many—especially those new to the trade—may wonder optics. The more information we have to transmit, the why such handling restrictions exist. What happens if the specifications are not followed Hertz vs. bits exactly? And why are the specifications more critical, and 4 Hz 4 bits/sec more restrictive, when transmitting higher data rates? The key point of this entire article is: installation 1 second 1 second quality and correctness. They are vital, and they are entirely up to you. Let’s fi rst consider that the twisted pair was designed several decades ago to transmit a voice signal at 4,000 Hz. Over the past 15 to 20 years, to accommodate computer and data networking traffic, the design has been upgraded to allow transmission rates to go from 4,000 bits/sec to millions and poten- tially billions of bits/second. And, of course, installation Although the relationship between hertz and bits is not always methods have had to be upgraded accordingly. 1:1, there is a correspondence between the two. Shown on the left is a cycle of 4 hertz/second; on the right is a cycle of 4 The lexicon of data transmission bits/second. Throughout this article, I will use the terms “frequency,” “hertz,” “megahertz,” “megabits,” “gigabits.” Let’s more hertz, or bits, it takes to do so, and the more com- ensure we know what they all mean. plex the technology required to transmit it. Hertz, or cycles per second, is an analog term. A hertz In the computer and data business, all of the informa- is one electrical energy cycle, above and below the cen- tion seen on the computer screen is converted to electri- ter line, occurring in one second of time. In digital cal, or ones and zeros—a bit represented by a one and the terminology, we use the term “bit,” which is one elec- absence of a bit represented by a zero. But there are other trical energy pulse, above or below the center line or a types of information sources, such as data transducers, combination of both, occurring in one second of time. industrial devices, and cameras that are frequency-based. Multiple hertz, or bits, can occur—four, forty, thousands, In most of these cases, the frequencies are converted to even millions—in a single second. bits before they are transmitted. Often, there are significant differences between hertz JAMES ANDRESS is an engineering consultant for telecommunications and bits concerning how they are processed and convey at New Mexico State University’s Physical Science Laboratory. information; but considering our discussion on ➤ www.cablinginstall.com Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ October 2007 ■ 9 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F Signal-to-noise ratio examples Resistance (R) is the resistance of the conductor to the passage of electric current. Resistance is constant along the con- Analog signal Digital signal ductor, controlled primarily by the size of the wire (the larger Good Good S/N the wire, the less resistance it has) and the type of material S/N Poor Poor S/N (copper being the almost universal choice), and is measured in S/N ohms(Ω). Another contributing factor to overall resistance is the type, thickness, and density of the insulation. Collectively, these resistance factors result in less signal received at the receiver, a poorer SNR, and a higher bit error rate. Leakage or conductance (G) is the conductance of the insu- Noise Static lation on each conductor to the passage of current leaking out Hum to the adjacent conductor of the pair, or to the other pairs, or Crosstalk to ground. It is almost negligible in its electrical effect on the Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is a critical electrical performance parameter, circuit, but it is there nonetheless and needs to be mentioned. and shown here are examples of good and poor SNR in analog trans- Being very high in value, it is measured in megohms, or mil- mission (left) as well as digital transmission (right). lions of ohms. It combines with resistance to weaken the signal along the pair, and is also constant along the conductor as cabling-installation specifications and practices, we can deal well as controlled by the type of insulating material, its thick- with the two terms interchangeably. ness, and its density. Another term we will use when talking about cable perfor- Inductance (L) and its current-flow-inhibiting effect, induc- mance is signal-to-noise ratio, or SNR. This is simply a num- tive resistance (X L), are also significant characteristics. Induc- ber expressing the difference between the power level of the tance is the magnetic effect of alternating current signal flow information signal in a circuit, and the power level of the noise, in a conductor. It opposes the applied signal voltage, which in hum, static, crosstalk, or other undesired interfering signals turn reduces the signal current flow, which then results in less that are also in the circuit. SNR is expressed as a ratio; the signal into the receiver, and then to a poor SNR and poorer larger the number, the better the circuit quality. BER. Inductance is also constant along the conductor. But in Directly related to SNR is bit error rate (BER). As the bit this case, the higher the signal frequency or bit rate, the higher power level gets down close to the noise level, the receiver may the current-inhibiting effect. Although inductance is inherent have difficulty deciding if there is a one or a zero at a given in any conductor, it is significantly increased when the con- period of time. If the receiver makes a mistake and reads ductor is curved or formed into a coil. The sharper the curve, a one instead of a zero, or vice versa, we have a bit error. or more rotations in a coil, or the smaller the diameter of the coil, the greater the inductance. These factors relate problems Twisted path of twisted pair resulting from tight bends or kinks in the cabling. The twisted pair is a rather high-tech precision piece of hard- Capacitance (C)—and its signal coupling effect, capacitive ware. Two areas of concern and how they relate to each other reactance (XC)—is the coupling effect of alternating current are: 1) the physical construction of the cable, and 2) the elec- signal flow between electrical conductors and components. trical characteristics of signal transmission. It allows signal coupling between the wires of a pair and The cable’s physical construction incorporates four signifi- between pairs. The common effect is crosstalk. Capacitance cant characteristics: is inherent in a conductor or component. It is also increased 1. The diameter of the conductor and conductor material; by closer spacing or by a larger-size conductor or component. 2. The type of insulating material along with its density and These factors relate to problems resulting from crushing, twist- thickness; ing, and bends that bring the conductors closer together. 3. The spacing between the insulated conductors of the pair as Impedance (Z) is a frequently discussed characteristic. well as the spacing between the four pairs in the cable; Expressed in ohms (Ω), it is a mathematical result of com- 4. The twist rate, or number of twists per inch, of the two con- bining the values of resistance, inductive reactance, and ductors of a pair—but also the relative twist rate of each of capacitive reactance. It is also a design value of all major the four pairs in the cable, each pair in a given cable having circuit components, such as transmitter, cable pair, and a different twist rate. receiver. In designing and installing a circuit, try to keep all com- The electrical characteristics of signal transmission include ponents and connections as close as possible to the design imped- the following items, each of which is complex and requires ance, which in the case of network circuits is 100 Ω. In contrast, detailed explanation: older data and telephone circuits were 600 and 900 Ω, ➤ 10 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F Panasonic recommends Windows Vista® Business. LEGALLY, WE CANNOT SAY EVERY SINGLE CALL WILL BE A TRIPLE PLAY. A laptop computer like the Toughbook® 19 can help you trounce the competition more than a pencil and paper ever could. At least that’s the word on the street. We built the fully-rugged Toughbook 19 to help you service customers, manage work orders, and increase productivity on-site like never before. It comes with a drop-resistant magnesium alloy case to protect the 80GB shock-mounted hard drive, a water-resistant keyboard and easy-to-read LCD. Plus, it has an optional GPS to get you where you’re going faster. All powered by the Intel® Core™ Duo Processor U2400. The Toughbook 19. It lets you crank out orders more than we can legally say. panasonic.com/toughbook/broadbandcable 1.800.662.3537 THE RUGGED ORIGINAL. Intel, Intel logo, Intel Centrino, Intel Centrino logo, Intel Inside, Intel Inside logo and Pentium are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries. Toughbook notebook PCs are covered by a 3-year limited warranty, parts and labor. To view the full text of the warranty, log on to panasonic.com/business/toughbook/support.asp. Please consult your Panasonic representative prior to purchase. ©2007 Panasonic Corporation of North America. All rights reserved. TriplePlay_CABLE_FY07-1 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F the circuit. All of these characteristics working Excess pulling tension together (or, in another sense, working against Correct form and spacing Elongation with reduced density and diameter one another) determine the electrical performance of the UTP cable. They collectively affect the smooth flow of current, which makes up the data signal, through the cable. High-tech cables are designed and constructed Excess pulling tension elongates a twisted-pair cable’s conductors and insulation which, as very precisely. The dimensions and com- this exaggerated-for-effect illustration shows, reduces the diameter of both components. position of the conductors and insulation are carefully controlled. We are respectively. From a practical viewpoint, when installation speaking of dimension tolerances of thousands-of-an- errors occur, such as tight bends and tie wraps, damaged inch and material compositions in parts-per-million. This is cable or components, or poor joints, the component and over- also related to the relative placement of each conductor and all design impedance is changed. And when all circuit com- its placement in the cable. So, any physical factor that distorts ponents are not working at 100 Ω, one or more impedance or affects these tolerances, even ever-so-slightly, changes the mismatches occur. inductive and capacitive design parameters, which in turn These cause, at the location of the mismatch, signal reflec- affect the electrical reactive values, which then affects the flow tions back toward the transmitter and a reduction in signal of signal current through the cable. In these cases, impedance power going to the receiver. The worse the cumulative mis- mismatches and reflections cause crosstalk, signal loss, noise, matches, the less the signal that is actually sent to the receiver, and then bit errors. resulting in poorer SNR or BER. The signal reflections are Let’s look at some of the installation specifications and see called return loss, and are expressed in dB. The higher the how even small mechanical distortions can affect transmis- dB number, the fewer installation problems and the better sion performance. • Excess pulling tension—One action that can adversely affect signal transmission is exerting too much pulling tension or, stated differently, stretching the cable. The Telecommunications In- dustry Association sets the maximum pulling tension at 25 pounds. When installers exceed that limit, it results in elongation of conductors and insulation, which in turn reduces the diameter and density of those components (the insulation more so than the conductor). Exerting too much pulling tension also lengthens the twist rate of not only each individual pair but also the relative rate between each of the four pairs. In both cases, it would likely occur in isolated sections, not the total cable length, depending on the nature of the pull. • Bend-radius violations—Violating mi- imum bend-radius limits by bending the cable too tightly or even kinking also has deleterious effects on signal transmission. Current specifications call for a minimum bend radius of four times the cable diam- ________ eter in horizontal applications. Often, you will see two values: static and dynamic. The static value is the minimum bending 12 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F radius of the cable after it is positioned or placed in its permanent location, with no further movement. The dynamic value is the minimum bend radius to be observed when the cable is being pulled and placed into position. This is the larger of the two num- bers because of the added stress being placed on the cable as it is being installed. Ignoring the bend-radius specification results in stretching or elongating the pair twist on the outer edge of the cable, and compression or buckling of the smooth lay and pair twist on the inner edge. The normal concern is for cable in trays and race- ways in long horizontal runs. The worst problem exists when excess slack is pushed back into a pullbox or outlet box, where very tight bends or even kinking could occur. Kink- ing, which can occur even when pulling the cable out of its supply box, is, of course, a severe case; once done, a kink really cannot be completely undone. In any case, a kink produces a severe inductive-reactance spike. It also likely will cause the conductors to be pushed closer together. • Cinching too tightly—Fastening cables too tightly with tie wraps, clamps, or staples is a specification violation. Generally, specifications are rather subjective about this matter, but the overall creed is not to cinch the cables so tightly that the cable cannot be gently pulled under the fas- tener, or so that the tie wrap cannot be slid along the bundle. Failing to adhere to this guideline can result in crushing the cable, thereby increasing the density and reducing the diameter of the insulation surrounding the conductor, as well as the cable sheath. Additionally, it reduces the spacing between the conductors of a pair and the ___________________ spacing among the four pairs of the cable. Finally, in extreme cases (as with a staple), the conductors can be bent or kinked. ➤ www.cablinginstall.com Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ October 2007 ■ 13 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F receiver so that the original signal can be properly detected Example of cinching cables and decoded. If there is too much difference in the rela- Wires kinked and pushed together with insulation diameter and density crushed and reduced tive data length of each of the four pairs, some bits will be delayed too much and get recombined out of their proper order, with resultant bit errors. The specification allows for differences in propagation delays due to the different twist rates on each of the four pairs; however, when cutting the four pairs to the same length, extra care must be taken so that the retained slack does not become kinked nor violate the minimum bend radius specification. • Cable combing—Combing the cable installa- Cinching cable bundles too tightly by any means may kink or crush tion—installing or laying the cables in a tray conductors, adversely affecting their performance. neatly, side by side—is a practice not addressed in specifications yet, but may soon be. It is, without question, a tech- • Insulation, jacket removal—Specifications also address the nical-performance concern. In long runs of several cables, untwisting of the twisted pairs prior to termination. Specif- it is customary to install the runs in an orderly, straight, ically, installers are told to untwist as little as possible, but in and side-by-side manner. This technique provides a very no case exceed ½-inch or extend beyond the rear of the con- neat and professional appearance; however, particularly at nector. And although it is unavoidable at the point of connec- very high data rates, it also allows the inductive reactance torization or punchdown, this action, even for a very short coupling of electric fields surrounding the conductors distance, untwists the conductors of the pair and sometimes increases the spacing between them. This concern is also Combed vs. random bundles true for the four pairs in the cable. Depending on the type of Combed installation Random lay installation connector block, specifications vary concerning how much insulation may be removed from the conductor, as well as how much sheath may be removed from the cable. Generally, specifications say to remove only as much as is absolutely necessary. The ideal case is with punchdown blocks, where no insulation is cut back at all. Disregarding the specifications about insulation removal will cause a small change in the cable’s impedance, because the insulation on a conductor is one factor that determines impedance. Addition- ally, the sheath is the key factor in holding the four pairs in place and in relative position to one another. So, removing the sheath also removes this stabilizing factor. • Effects on delay skew—Even delay skew, an electrical characteristic most closely associated with the material used to insulate conductors, is subject to variation, depending on installation technique. Workmanship involves terminat- While aesthetically pleasing, neatly combed bundles are proving detri- ing the pairs of the cable in such a way that each pair is cut mental to cable performance. Randomly laid cables may not look pretty, to length in the connector or terminal block. Mechanically, but yield better results. this avoids having extra-length pairs bunched up in the connecting area. In so doing, however, each of the four pairs to more easily combine and build up, and the capacitive ends up having a slightly different length. Specifications call for reactance coupling between the conductors to further mini- a 45-nanosecond maximum delay skew, among the four cable mize. The main concern is not totally between the four pairs pairs, along a 100-meter span. That is the difference in time, in a given cable, but the cable-to-cable coupling directly among the four pairs, one to another, for the signals to prop- affecting alien crosstalk. By using a random lay, the cables agate through the cable from the transmitter to the receiver. are constantly changing their relative spacing and crossover Erroneous installation methods can have a detrimental effect. position. This reduces the chances for a long exposure to Very high data-rate signals that are divided into four parts inductive and capacitive coupling. In fact, coupling fields must be recombined in the proper order, or sequence, at the can actually experience some cancellation as they wander 14 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F Are you ready to feel the speed? Super fast testing with the WireScope Pro LAN Cabling Tester Agilent’s WireScope Pro tester sweeps a full 1GHz in a few seconds, boosting your test speed to new industry leading Cat 6A and Cat 7 autotest times of 9 seconds. It also accelerates your copper and fiber testing with dual- wavelength fiber probes, the elimination of field calibration, and a new auto-increment capability. The WireScope Pro tester is the only handheld to provide Alien Crosstalk (AXT) measurements simultaneously on multiple ‘exciter’ cables, as well as produce final results on the spot, so you can quickly handle any future AXT field testing requirements. Alternative approaches could take hours to complete and require PC post processing to see the results. With simple software upgrades and a robust hardware platform operating at 1 GHz frequency, you’ll save on the cost of test because you’ll stay state-of-the-art for many years, eliminating the need to buy new testers every year or two. u.s. 1-800-829-4444, ext. 5465 Experience the speed of the WireScope Pro tester now at canada 1-877-894-4414, ext. 5465 www.agilent.com/find/wirescope or by talking to one of our _____________________ www.agilent.com/find/wirescope __________________________ engineers by calling our 800 #s. © Agilent Technologies, Inc. 2006 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F in a random fashion along the cable tray or rack. the greater the reactance, or current-inhibiting effect, or induc- Even if you have followed the installation specifications per- tive reactance X L. As the data rate, frequency, or inductance fectly, it is more difficult to get good BERs at high data rates increases, XL also increases. than at lower rates. (Please note that the following formulas This can be expressed mathematically with the following for- only illustrate relationships, and should not be used for actual mula: XL=2ΠfL. 2Π is a constant with a value of 6.28; f is the circuit calculations). Critical factors are inductive and capac- data rate or frequency; and L is the inductance of the pair or itive reactance. other component at a given point in the circuit. Remember that inductance is constant along the conduc- XL exists even in all good circuits, but its effect is made worse tor; however, the higher the signal data rate, or frequency, by problems with too-tight bends, kinks and, to some extent, with staples and tie wraps. Capacitance is also constant along the conductors. But in this case, the capacitive resistance, XC, in contrast to XL, decreases as the signal data rate increases. So, with a smaller XC, or opposing effect to signal coupling, crosstalk can increase as the data rate, or frequency, increases. This also can be expressed: XC = 1/2ΠfC. 2Π is the constant 6.28; f is the data rate or frequency; and C is the capacitance between the pairs or other components at a given point in the circuit. Like X L , XC is a factor in well-established circuits, but its effect can easily be made worse by problems with crushing, twisting, bends that bring the conductors closer together, and long installation runs of combed cable. The resistance effect also increases with higher data rates, although it is not quite as contributory as is inductive reactance. The increasing effect is due to the way the higher-frequency energy propagates along a conductor—a condition called skin effect. Also of importance is the chemical com- position of the insulating materials, which affects the impedance characteristic of an insulated conductor. Higher frequencies are attenuated more so than the lower ones. This effect is related to the insulation dielectric constant. (Please note that when discussing signal transmission, most specifications and other literature refer to resistance factor as attenuation.) Quality control Installation quality and correctness lead directly to maximum signal-to-noise ratios and minimum bit errors. In that sense, sys- __________________ tem performance is up to you—the installers and operators of cabling systems. 16 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F ___________________________ _____________________ C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F WE MADE ROOM FOR A LOT OF INNOVATIONS. INTRODUCING THE 2008 DODGE SPRINTER > The most technologically advanced commercial van on the market† > Adaptive Electronic Stability Program (ESP)‡ on all models which includes Load Adaptive Control and Electronic Roll Mitigation to help assure safer handling > Available front and rear ParkSense® helps reduce the risk of vehicle damage when parking § > Unique cargo securing features and available lashing rails help secure your cargo > For more info, visit dodge.com/sprinter, or call 800-4ADODGE. *2500 models only. †Based on Automotive News classification. ‡Always drive carefully, consistent with conditions. Always wear your seat belt and obey traffic laws. §Always check entire surroundings before backing up. Properly secure all cargo. C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F Chrysler Financial is a business unit of Chrysler Financial Services. C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F 48 REASONS to use our Modular Patch Panel. al ons s recit be ction necti e s of Y tions ls e gam m in buplers rt ouTu rs ositi / oppe tion g labe ails 8-po cal p tated ber c ip dapte nce r con tion onne on a ed r s Acce onfigura ice m 15 m configur Acce amping t eo Acce module Leagu n ’s da o nd 4 verti ets in ro -facin Tailga t configura natio Acce rts page -Vid Tucki s coaxial c CA a er vo r ort a s ghte ty Flexib bezels inute pts c laugh led c pts S termi pts fi Little front pts R ng the ly c te par ble l -in Few Out 24-p spo ility Dau Ang Fami Varia Snap t h More Front t Accep Large Son’s The 6-por Straig UL an 1U an Multip icons for U Snap-o For hig Clear Indepe TIA/EIA-6 ANSI Singin Going Stopp the dog Walkin d 2U d cUL Indepe Quick le colo label c n Gettin h-spee Accep / ndent Remem g alon Accep ing to out to config Long g listed Accep er serv ndent rs for overs g to yo ries outlets ts UN d netw Rear t A seco outlet g with ts LC, smell t bering uratio a mov An ho The sk weeken ts BN er upt UNJ- ies outlets outlet ermin NJ-ser J se ur own orks nd cup remov 06-A the rad SC & ns ie he ros your a ur at t C adap i slope ime series d install ation al compli “to do ST co of cof es io he gym nniver outlets s ation ters nnecto ” list ant fee sary rs Uniprise® Solutions make your work easier and faster, allowing you to get to the things you enjoy. That is because CommScope’s complete line of Uniprise solutions is designed with simplicity in mind. Copper. Fiber. Cable. Connectivity. To find out how CommScope can make your life easier, ask for your free copy of our 172-page Enterprise Design Guide at http://up.commscope.com/designguide. There are many reasons to use Uniprise Solutions. What are your reasons? © 2007 CommScope, Inc. All Rights Reserved. All trademarks identified by ® or TM are registered trademarks or trademarks, respectively, of CommScope. C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F www.cablinginstall.com installation Using an OTDR: How to keep it simple C ommunications networks never go slower, never get simpler, and never stay Not just for use in public networks, the optical time-domain reflectometer no longer has to be an intimidating tool. the same. Likewise, certifica- A typical OTDR setup tion testing for fiber-optic cabling has also changed. Launch Tail New test equipment and enhanced testing regiments cord Cabling under test cord OTDR help ensure that cabling can support the new demands placed on networks. Born from legacy test equipment 0 for telecommunications networks, some of these fiber testers were difficult to use. But a new generation of -5 fiber test equipment is designed to make it easy to certify Local interface Remote fiber to the latest standards. -10 insertion interface Not long ago, the state-of-the-art for fiber-optic loss insertion loss cabling was the 100Base-FX standard from the Institute -15 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE; www.ieee. Source: Fluke Networks org), which supported a bit rate of 100 Mbits/sec over a __ channel with an attenuation of 11 decibels (dB). Today, According to ISO-14763-3, the correct setup for an OTDR uses for IEEE 10GBase-S to support a transmission rate 100x both launch and receive (tail) cords, but no measurement device higher than 100Base-FX, the transmission channel must on the far end. The gaps in red show the loss at each connector. attenuate the light by no more than 2.6 dB. It is this tight- ening of requirements for the physical media that repre- test with an OLTS is an essential part of fiber installa- sents a challenge for all components used to build and tion. Every link needs to be tested to ensure it is within test a transmission path. the loss limits. But an OLTS will only show if a link has A standards-compliant connector can contribute up passed or failed. If it fails, the OLTS will not show you to 0.75 dB (0.5 dB typical) to the total loss. This would why it failed, or where. mean that if you patch two fiber segments together, there For these answers, an optical time-domain reflec- would be a total of four connectors, which could—even tometer (OTDR) comes into play. Using an OTDR need though each individual segment is compliant—result in not be complicated or confusing. Understanding a few worst-case loss of 3 dB (4 x 0.75). This exceeds the loss basic concepts will make OTDR use as straightforward budget left for the entire link, and with a negative allow- as using a copper certification tool. ance left for the fiber itself. Testing fiber links as defined by national and international standards, such as the TIA/EIA-568-A and More than a loss measurement ISO-11801 specifications, includes the use of an OLTS. It is here where new test methods are required. Installers Recently updated standards that focus on test methods who work with optical fiber are, no doubt, familiar with for installed fiber links, such as ISO-14763-3 and TIA the optical loss test set (OLTS). Performing a loss-length TSB-140, now recommend the complementary use of an OTDR. These new standards add the use of an OTDR to CHRISTIAN SCHILLAB is segment product manager with Fluke verify not just that the link has passed, but to ensure the Networks, Europe (www.ﬂukenetworks.com). ____________ quality of each installed component on the link. ➤ www.cablinginstall.com Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ October 2007 ■ 21 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F Newer OTDRs will create an image of the thinkingis in contrast to the certification of twisted-pair copper cabling systems, where after setting proper setup configuration. You merely need the correct standard, a single press of the autotest button does everything. to make connections and have the instrument Fortunately, the actual use of the OTDR is not as challenging as it appears. Making sure that test “learn” the launch and receive fibers. leads, launch fibers, andreceive fibers are in a crisp Two levels of testing are defined in these updated stan- condition, and are clean and correctly connected, will always dards: Basic (or Tier 1) testing uses an OLTS. Extended be your responsibility. But the remainder of the setup steps (or Tier 2) testing involves the use of an OTDR and an OLTS. can be taken care of by the instrument. Newer OTDRs will The following example helps demonstrate how an create an image of the proper setup configuration. You extended test regime can help to ensure consistent merely need to make connections and have the instrument quality during installation. Assume that the first con- “learn” the launch and receive fibers. nector in a 2-connector, 100-meter fiber link performs After this step, the tes- Launch and receive extremely well, while the second connector is poorly installed ter will be ready to certify Set Launch Method or contaminated. In such a circumstance, the measurement links and all included Launch Only components for their A compliant link with a “bottle neck” Launch + Receive compliance. Often, a Launch + Fiber + Receive Component Limits [dB] Actual [dB] project-specific standard, First connector 0.3 0.05 which is derived from 100-m fiber 0.35 0.31 the manufacturer’s data Connect fiber(s) Last connector 0.3 0.57 sheet or reference imple- as shown. Total 0.95 0.93 mentation, will be used to set these limits. Highlight method, with an OLTS may show that the link passed by a slim mar- Press TEST gin of 0.02 dB, but does not identify the second connector as Pass, fail, or squeak by View a bottleneck (noted in bold). When the tester is proper- Settings Identifying bottlenecks is the strength of an OTDR, which ly configured, the tests are The OTDR will learn the launch and sends a pulse of light into fiber and measures the light as simple as copper certi- receive fibers, thereby allowing it to reflected back at each component as the light lost at that compo- subtract their loss contribu- nent. The same is true for backscattered light along the length A reported link failure tion from the overall link of the fiber itself. OTDR Results FAIL measurement. DCO-DUBLIN-03 Little setup required Multimode 62.5 fication. The most com- An OTDR can produce accurate, highly detailed measurements, Dual 850/1300 nm mon situation should be if the correct setup and necessary accessories are employed. End 1: DATA CENTER that the link passes, and Recent versions of standards like ISO-14763-3 make an attempt a “pass” indication on the to specify all necessary elements for a correct measurement Length 49.5 m summary screen will in- Overall Loss 1.07 dB with an OTDR, eliminating common sources of measurement dicate the tester evaluat- X Largest Event 0.92 dB error, including: ed all elements of the link. • Specifications for launch and receive fibers; Results are stored for later • Correct use of launch and receive fibers; reporting. The instru- • Instructions detailing how to position the cursor for the cor- View View View ment also automatically rect reading of link, component, and segment attenuation; Trace Events Limits subtracts the contribution • List of conditions under which it is vital to measure each This is a report of a link that failed even of the launch and receive fiber in both directions. though the overall loss was below the fibers from the total link, You may view these setup requirements as overly complex, allowable limit. The reason for failure showing only the total which may explain why many consider the OTDR to be a tool was the single largest event of 0.92 dB, overall loss. for experts only. This is also why installers and contractors which was outside the design specifica- While this example is may choose not to bid on projects that require an OTDR, or tion. Standard loss-length tests would sufficient information for subcontract this work to a company specializing in fiber. Such not identify this single event. a passing link, you ➤ 22 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F Room to Successful data center design requires more than Grow simple, high-density solutions. ADC’s Managed Density™ approach not only minimizes valuable floor space, but allows logical and orderly growth as well as easy maintenance and access. Space Savings ADC’s entire copper and fiber product lines provide the maximum density in any situation. Improved Reliability The critical bend radius and physical protection provided by our products avoid cable pile-ups and mishaps – maximizing uptime Exceptional Manageability With ADC, you can expand and manage your data center without stranding network capacity. Green Technology Proper cable management also enhances airflow and cooling in the data center – bringing energy consumption down and assisting with LEED certification. ADC’s Data Center Tap into ADC’s years of experience designing the Optical Distribution Frame (ODF) world’s largest data centers. Contact us today to - also available in plug-and-play versions get your Free Managed Density Overview. ADC’s ODF modules provide single circuit access in a high-density environment, bend radius protection and 1-800-366-3891 intuitive cable routing in the most advanced and efficient or +1-952-938-8080 cross-connect system on the market. www.adc.com/truenet ©2007 ADC Telecommunications, Inc. All rights reserved. C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F It’s already known will need to dig deeper A detailed link trace as the easiest ever! and get more-detailed information if the link OTDR Trace DCO-DUBLIN-03 dB 850 nm 1X End 1 1X (or parts of it) failed the 10.5 specified limits. 5.8 You can see, for 1.2 example, that the loss -3.4 may be 1.07 dB and -8.1 m 0.0 49.4 within the limits, but a Event: 49.5 m Receive Event single bottleneck con- 0.92 dB FAIL tributes 0.92 dB to the Cursor Event overall loss. Press ENTER to Set Mark A fully automatic View Change Next Events To Zoom Trace OTDR automates the test to the same level This OTDR trace of a link with a 0.92-dB as a copper field tester, event at 49.5 meters provides a using internal expert great deal more detail than could be diagnostics to inter- obtained from an OLTS. pret all the information from the OTDR test, and presents the results in a simple, New Megger SCT2000 easy-to-understand table. Structured Cable Tester Everyone’s an expert The SCT2000 is the first tester to truly uncomplicate the Many react negatively when they hear the term “OTDR.” But certification and evaluation of copper and fiber cabling rather than thinking of words such as “complicated” and “ex- installations. It is simply the must intuitive and easy-to- pensive,” you could think phrases such as “just like my cop- operate LAN certification tester on the market today! That alone makes it a tester to try. per tester,” and “a chance to grow my business.” Installing Now, add all of these other impressive features: and testing fiber may be new to some contractors, but the 1 to 1,000 MHz frequency range. Certifies twisted pair right equipment can make the job easier. to all approved ISO and TIA standard, including ISO Class F. An expert reader of this article will recognize the trace Powerful diagnostics pinpoint the distance to link shown in the illustration above. The launch and receive disturbances on each measured pair. Unique “connector-less” recessed copper and fiber optic events are clearly visible to the left and to the right of the link. adapters eliminate virtually all potential adapter or tester Rather than thinking of words such damage…keeping your SCT on the job. Unparalleled result storage capability. Internal memory stores over 5,000 certification test results, or 100 graphic as “complicated” and “expensive,” you results. Powerful certification management software organizes, could think phrases such as “just like edits, views, prints, saves or archives test results by job site, customer, campus building and more. Large color VGA LCD display provides a rich graphical user my copper tester,” and “a chance to interface, speeding users through twisted pair and fiber optic cabling certification and diagnosis. grow my business.” “Talk” feature allows two-way voice communication between the main and remote units. Also visible is the 0.92-dB receive event at 49.5 meters. But Really? How easy is it? the key to today’s OTDRs is that you don’t have to be an Request a live demonstration at your location today by calling expert. If you are an installer of copper cabling systems, an 1-800-723-2861 ext. 8518, email us at dean.craig@megger.com or go online to www.megger.com/sct for complete product specifications. OTDR will offer you three qualities: 1. Expert diagnostics that make the OTDR work much like your familiar copper certification tool; 2. A means of bidding on more jobs, growing your business and increasing profits; 3. The ability to move your knowledge of copper systems WWW.MEGGER.COM ____________ into a new area and become a fiber expert. 24 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F CABLING SYSTEMS MANUFACTURING AND DISTRIBUTION cabling systems Modular Plugs Patch Cords Copper Cables Patch Panels Fiber Optic Cables Optical Connectors Cross Connection Cable Trays Installation Accessories Access Floor Cabinets and Racks Tools EXCELLENT QUALITY, COMPETITIVE PRICE, FAST DELIVERY Hyperline Systems 2212 Gladwin Crescent, unit C7, Ottawa, Ontario, K1B 5N1, Canada Phone: 1-613-736-8500, toll-free: 1-866-63-HYPER (1-866-634-9737), fax: 1-613-736-9752 www.hyperline.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F See what our experts have to say... Lyle Menard breaks down the features and benefits of pre-terminated copper and fiber trunking cable assemblies ➤ Watch his video at: www.siemon.com/lyle LYLE MENARD Structured Cabling Specialist RCDD/NTS CONNECTING THE WORLD TO A HIGHER STANDARD W W W W .S S I I EE M O N . .C C O M W W . M O N O M _________________________ C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F www.cablinginstall.com technology The ins and outs of fusion splicing T he process of fusion splicing has been around for several decades, and in out- While primarily for use in the outside plant, the technology is also seeing deployment in premises applications. side plant (OSP) applications, it remains the most common and trusted method for permanently fusing together the ends of two optical fibers to realize a specific length or to repair a broken fiber link. But while fusion splicing is primarily used on singlemode fiber in long-haul OSP applications, it also occurs in premises LAN applications for both singlemode and multimode fiber types. And in data centers, the emphasis on density and performance combined with the need to ensure a return on investment has some installers opting to fusion splice rather than perform field terminations. New prices and trends Fusion splicing involves the use of localized Fusion splicers are small and portable enough for the data center and central heat to melt together or fuse the ends of two ofﬁce. The Fujikura SpliceMate (FSM-11) is one of the world’s smallest and optical fibers. The preparation process involves most portable fusion splicers. removing the protective coating from each fiber, precise cleaving, and inspection of the fiber end- “The core alignment splicer is the primary choice of any faces. (Inspection is critical since splice loss is directly contractor doing fusion splicing, because you never know related to the angle and quality of the endface.) Once what type of specifications and loss budgets you’re go- the fibers are properly prepared, they are placed into the ing to be required to meet,” says fusion splicer, aligned, and fused together. Greg Pickeral, product man- Fusion splicing yields a very low loss of typi- ager of fusion splicing for cally less than 0.02 dB and, therefore, has lit- AFL Telecommunica- tle impact on overall link performance. tions, a subsidiary of The two basic types of fusion splicing tech- Fujikura Ltd. of Japan (www. ____ nology in use today are core and V-groove afltele.com). “When you’re _______ alignment systems, with the core type align- dealing with many fibers, a ing a single fiber and offering better accuracy multi-fiber V-groove and lower loss. splicer is a more efficient method, but the ➤ BETSY ZIOBRON is a freelance writer and regular contributor to Cabling Core alignment splicers, such as this Fujikura FSM-50s from AFL, Installation & Maintenance. She can be reached at: bziobron@comcast.net Maintenance. are popular for their accuracy and performance. www.cablinginstall.com Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ October 2007 ■ 27 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F Pickeral says the new splice-on connectors let service providers build customer drop cables to length so they don’t have to deal with slack storage at the curb or customer location. Behind closed doors The first and primary use of splicing in the telecommunications industry is to link fibers together in underground or aerial outside-plant fiber installations. Over the past 15 years, several innovations have drastically reduced the amount of fusion splicing taking place in the premises environment, including advancements in field installable no-epoxy/no-polish connectors and indoor/outdoor cables. According to Warren Hicks, manager of marketing strategy and development for private networks at Corn- ing Cable Systems (www.corningcablesystems.com), “It used to be very common to do fusion splicing at the building entrance to transition from outdoor-rated to indoor-rated cable, because the NEC specifies that Mass fusion splicers, such as the Fujikura FSM-50R12, are based on outdoor-rated cable can on- V-groove technology and can splice 12 ﬁbers at a time. ly come 50 feet in- to a building design engineer must understand the tradeoff in accuracy and loss estimation, and properly design around it.” Today’s fusion splicers range in cost from $7,000 to $40,000. The highest-priced units are designed for specialty optical fibers, such as polarization-maintaining fibers used in the production of high-end non-electrical sensors. The lower-end fusion splicers, in the $7,000 to $10,000 range, are primarily single-fiber fi xed V-groove type devices. The popular core alignment splicers range between $17,000 and $19,000, well Corning Cable Systems’ UniCam MTP connectors offer a no-epoxy/no- below the $30,000 price of 20 years ago. polish ﬁeld-installable MTP/MPO style that provide an alternative to “The prices have dropped dramatically due to more effi- fusion splicing or preterminated trunk cables in the data center. cient manufacturing, and volume is up because fiber is no longer a voodoo science and more people are working in that due to its flame rating.” He adds, “The advent of plenum-rat- arena,” says Pickeral. “Recently, we’ve seen more fiber being ed indoor/outdoor cable has driven that transition splicing to deployed closer to the customer premise with higher splice- a minimum. But that’s not to say that fusion splicing in the loss budgets, which results in a greater participation of premise isn’t going on.” Verizon and AT&T installers who are purchasing lower-end Hicks believes that longer distances in the outside plant could splicers to accomplish their jobs.” mean that sticking with standard outdoor-rated cable and According to Pickeral, in fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) fusion splicing at the building entrance could be the more eco- applications, fusion splicing is now being used to install con- nomical choice. nectors for customer drop cables using new splice-on connec- “It’s important to do the math,” he says. “If it’s a short run tor technology and lower-end V-groove splicers. between building A and B, it makes sense to use newer indoor/ “Historically, the choices were to either fusion splice on a outdoor cable and come right into the crossconnect; however, pigtail or install connectors in the traditional hand-polishing because indoor/outdoor cables are generally more expensive, method where consistency, insertion loss, and other perfor- if it’s a longer run with lower fiber counts between buildings, mance measurements are determined by the installer’s abil- it could ultimately be cheaper to buy outdoor-rated cable and ity,” says Pickeral. “The newest fusion-installable connectors fusion splice to transition to indoor-rated cable, even with the use fusion splicing to connect the ferrule to the fiber, and then additional cost of splice materials and housing.” the connector is assembled around the splice.” Hicks continues, “It often comes down to who’s driv- ➤ 28 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F Installation is easy with Cope’s Cat-TrayTM cable tray products. The Kwik-LatchTM design is integral to connecting Cope’s Cat-TrayTM cable tray sections. Cope’s Kwik-InstallTM accessories completes the product package to insure Kwik and easy installations on any project. The Kwik-InstallTM accessories and tools offer an endless variety of solutions to suspend Cat-Tray from overhead or below a raised floor and speed field modifications. Cat-TrayTM makes your cable tray installations flexible, quick, and easy! Cat-TrayTM – The Trusted Name in Wire Basket Tray Systems Ask your local sales rep for the Cat-TrayTM catalog today! Or, get it online at: http://www.alliedeg.com/cope Allied Tube & Conduit • AFC Cabling Systems® • Power-Strut® Metal & Fiberglass Framing • Cope® Cable Tray Cat-Tray, Kwik-Latch, Kwik-Install, Cope, Allied Tube & Conduit, AFC Cable Systems, Power-Strut, and Tyco are trademarks or registered trademarks of Tyco © 2007 T.J. Cope, Tyco International. International and/or its affiliates in the United States and in other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective owners. C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F __________________ ing the boat. If it’s the contractor, and he has access to a fusion splicer, he may take the time to do the calculation and determine which option is less expensive, because that can mean a higher margin for him. If the end user is driving it, they may decide they don’t want the loss associated with the transition splice and choose the indoor/outdoor cable.” While fiber-to-the-desk applications remain rare, it is another situation that may call for fusion splicing in the premises environment. “If you want to go the full 300 meters in a fiber-to-the-desk application, you have to either fusion splice or do an interconnect; however, an interconnect can introduce 0.75dB of loss while the fusion splice is typically less than 0.02dB,” Hicks explains. “Therefore, the easiest way to minimize the amount of loss on a fiber-to-the-desk circuit is to bring the individual fibers from each workstation back to the closet and then splice to a higher-fiber-count cable.” This approach also enables cen- tralizing electronics for more efficient port utilization. Fusion splicing in the premises is more common with singlemode fiber applications because many customers are still uncomfortable with field-installing singlemode connectors. “We have some customers futureproofing with singlemode Some installers choose fusion-splice ﬁber pigtails, like these factory- terminated LC ﬁber pigtails from Ortronics. fiber, and instead of the more difficult task of field-polishing singlemode connectors, they have chosen to fusion-splice preterminated pigtails,” says Rudy Montgelas, senior product manger of fiber optics for Ortronics/Legrand (www. ____ _________ “There’s more variation and higher loss when ortronics.com). field terminating fiber connectors, while the factory-terminated connectors on a pigtail ensure a premium polish and better performance. Because fusion splicing can provide very low loss, fusion splicing to factory-terminated pigtails can result in better performance.” An option for data centers A significant increase in the number of applications supported by data centers has resulted in more cables and connections than ever, making available space a chief concern. As a 30 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page Contents Zoom In A 7 Installation Maintenance Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F manager for fusion splicers with Sumitomo Electric Lightwave (www.sumitomoelectric.com). “Fusion splicing provides permanent low-loss connections that are performed quickly and easily, which are definite advantages over competing technologies. In addition, current handheld fusion splicers are designed to provide enhanced features and high-quality performance, and be very affordable at the same time.” According to Ortronics’ Montgelas, splicing in the Each fusion splice is protected with a splice sleeve. data center involves the use of a splice tray for stor- ing and organizing the splices. “Splice trays can be result, many data center managers are turning to higher-den- located in the back of a patch cabinet, or for very high-density sity solutions like MTP/MPO (mechanical transfer pull-off/ splicing, the splice trays could be located in a separate splic- multi-fiber push-on) connectors and multi-fiber cables that ing cabinet,” says Montgelas. “The tradeoff between the labor, take up less pathway space than running individual duplex equipment, and materials involved in fusion splicing versus the cables. Since few manufacturers offer field-installable MTP/ cost of the factory-terminated trunk cable needs to be consid- MPO connectors, many managers are selecting either mul- ered on a case-by-case basis.” tifiber trunk cables with MTP/MPOs factory-terminated on Montgelas adds: “When you select trunk cables with connec- each end, or fusion splicing to preterminated MTP/MPO or tors on each end, data center managers often specify lengths multifiber LC pigtails. a little bit longer because they can’t always predict exact “We are seeing higher usage of handheld V-groove-based distances between equipment and they don’t want to be short; fusion splicers for termination applications in the premise however, they then have to deal with excess slack. When there and data center environment,” says Josh Seawell, product are thousands of connections, that slack can create a lot ➤ There’s A New Cat In Town LYNX Precision Introducing the Fiber Optic Cleaver w. Illuminated Workstation FIS LYNX™ Precision Cleaver TM ! NEW LYNX Precision _______ Fiber Optic Cleaver LYNX Precision Cleaver Only $650.00 1.800.5000.FIS 161 Clear Road • Oriskany, NY 13424 LYNX with optional Work Tray Tel: 315.736.2206 • Fax: 315.736.2285 info@ﬁberinstrumentsales.com Only $695.00 www.ﬁberinstrumentsales.com www.cablinginstall.com Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ October 2007 ■ 31 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F of congestion and limit prop- MPO connector that is built er air flow and cooling. One around our Unicam technology,” alternative is to purchase a says Hicks. “The UniCam MTP multi-fiber pigtail and then can be terminated in the field in splice to a multi-fiber cable, about four minutes.” which some installers are While the UniCam MTP con- choosing to do.” nectors pass all industry stan- Sumitomo’s Seawell notes, dards and tests for optical “Projects utilizing MTP/ performance, each one involves MPO-style connectors cou- a mechanical splice, which con- pled with the use of ribbon tributes slightly higher loss than fiber or the ability to ribbon- Fusion splices are stored in a splice tray, like Ortronics’ 12-inch fusion a fusion splice. ize single fibers allow users splicing tray mounted either behind the patch panel or in a separate “If I already own a fusion splicer to experience significant splicing rack or cabinet. and space isn’t an issue, I may time savings by fusion splic- choose to fusion-splice factory- ing multiple fibers at once. Imagine splicing four, eight, or 12 terminated pigtails to achieve lower loss,” says Hicks. “But our fibers in the same time frame as splicing only one fiber. This stance is that the field-installable connectors are the most eco- is possible using mass- or ribbon-fusion splicers. Mass-fusion- nomical method because you’re eliminating the capital expense splicer technology has been around for decades and now is of a fusion splicer, eliminating the expense of additional splic- available in handheld models, such as Sumitomo’s Type-25eM ing materials and consumables, and maximizing density in the TomCat 4-ct ribbon splicer.” Seawell adds that another of his rack by eliminating the need to accommodate splice trays.” company’s products, the Type-66 TuffCat 12-ct ribbon splicer, can accommodate larger fiber counts. Making the choice Corning Cable Systems is one of the few manufacturers Today’s fusion splicers “offer many advantages in the premises offering a field-installable MTP connector, which is another environment, from being lightweight and compact to operat- option for those data center customers that don’t want to pur- ing on a battery,” says Sumitomo’s Seawell. “These new units chase pre-terminated trunk cables and deal with slack. “MTP/ minimize setup time and are ideal for use in locations where MPO connectors are difficult to terminate using the epoxy- space is tight. In addition, the total splice and heater cycle time polish method; however, we offer a no-epoxy, no-polish MTP/ is less than one minute, thereby enabling technicians to move through many termination locations quickly.” Adds Hicks: “We foresee fusion splicing decreasing, because ultimately, customers that can’t deal with slack are going to demand field-installable connectors. Many more will rely on the preterminated trunk cables and sacrifice the inconvenience of dealing with slack, because it offers faster deployment.” Montgelas says that preterminated solutions offer the most benefits: “It’s easy to install preterminated cables, and because they’re available in custom lengths, it’s easy to get the exact lengths required to limit the excess slack.” When deciding between fusion splicing and field-installable connectors, Montgelas says there are other factors to consider: “Fusion splicing is taking on more of an interest in the data center for singlemode applications, but compared to how much it will take off versus field-installable connectors remains to be seen.” He concludes, “As you get into significantly higher fiber counts, fusion splicing could save time over installing connectors; however, contractors and installers that don’t have Sumitomo Electric Lightwave offers single- and mass-fusion splicers, a fusion splicer or splicing experience may want to consid- including the Type-25eM TomCat 4-ct and the Type-66 TuffCat 12-ct er whether to invest in a fusion splicer and the cost and time ribbon splicers. required to train their staff.” 32 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F > Know the Network Task-Ready Tools from JDSU Help You Build it Right A lot rides on delivering reliable networking infrastructures. Bring them on line on time on budget–or else. Complicated tools with extra features just get in the way. With streamlined solutions from JDSU, your crew gets the job done right–fast–the first time. The JDSU line of tools for network cabling installation is built on expertise gained through decades of close partnerships with the world’s leading service providers. Because we know networks from the core through the premises, we engineer test complexity out and job confidence in. Get to know our full line-up of task-ready tools that are scaled to meet your exact test needs. – Telephone Test Sets: Lil’ Buttie™ Pro and DSL-safe Ranger™ telephone test sets WWW.JDSU.COM/KNOW _________________ – Tones and Probes: Tone, trace, and troubleshoot twisted pair, coax, and network cable – Cable Testers: Testifier™ wiring verifier, LanScaper™ network tester, and Tri-Porter™ combination tester TELEPHONE 1 805 383-1500 – Ethernet Speed Tester: Validator-NT™ Ethernet tester with Plan-Um™ planning software FAX 1 805 383-1595 – Fiber Testers: SmartClass™ series testers (OLP/OLS/OLT/OMK) and T-BERD® OTDR – Copper/xDSL Testers: HST-3000 Handheld Services Tester, SmartClass™ ADSL tester – Ethernet Field Test: SmartClass™ Ethernet tester Build it better with a free Validator! Enter to win: www.jdsu.com/validator > Telephone Test Sets • Tones & Probes • Cable Testers • Ethernet Speed Testers • Fiber Testers • Copper/xDSL & Ethernet Field Testers C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F P R E - T E R M I N AT E D , PRE-TESTED, PRE-ANYONE ELSE. PROVEN PERFORMANCE. PROVEN RELIABILITY. RAPIDNET. When it comes to pre-terminated network cabling solutions, HellermannTyton is the leader. Pioneering the first Category 6 pre-terminated network cabling system, HellermannTyton has, for years, delivered successful RapidNet installations across the globe – including leading US data centers in government, financial, healthcare, educational and enterprise applications. RapidNet is available in copper and fiber modular configurations and offers the time tested performance and reliability required for system critical applications. Assuring on-time project completion in the most demanding circumstances, RapidNet has been verified to reduce installation time by 85% over traditional methods. RapidNet has been proven in the field, now let us prove to you how RapidNet can enhance your business. Go online for more information and register for your free “Proven in the Field” t-shirt, www.hellermann.tyton.com/cm1 phone: [80 0] 822 4352 email: info@htamericas.com w w w. h e l l e r m a n n .t y t o n . c o m /c m1 _____________________ C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F www.cablinginstall.com data center Enclosures play a role in thermal management T he vexing problem of heat generation in the data center and, more specifically, Dealing with heat close to its source takes several forms. within racks and enclosures is top-of-mind and top-of- have much greater heat-transfer and -carrying capaci- agenda for professionals who manage such high-den- ties than traditional air.” sity computing environments. Villa further explains the liquid cooling package’s “The IT [information technology] world knows the two characterization as a closed-loop, close-coupled system: critical concerns in the data center are power availability “‘Close-coupled’ means the heat transfer and removal and cooling capacity,” says Herb Villa, technical manager process is adjacent to the heat-producing component. with Rittal Corp. (www.rittal-corp.com). The two are ‘Closed-loop’ means air in the enclosure is circulated interrelated in that the equipment required to cool these through the enclosure,” via fans. spaces consume significant amounts of power. Four or five years ago, the prospect of introducing Dense servers known as blades are the primary sources chilled liquid so close to a data center’s central nervous of this concentrated heat. Quite often, blade servers are system made many feel, well, nervous. “Customers would stored in enclosures or cabinets. Over the past several say, ‘I’m not bringing water into my data center,’” Villa years, and with increasing frequency more recently, recalls. “Yet they already had water in their data center enclosure manufacturers are designing their wares to deal in many other aspects,” including sprinkler systems. with concentrated heat loads in some form or fashion. Happily, he reports, “We have overcome the water big- Villa notes that Rittal offers a full breadth of products otry. People realize they need to consider these solutions with thermal-management capabilities: “You have to be for high-density cooling.” Whereas a half-decade ago, able to support customers who will put a few servers in Villa’s potential customers would ask him why they’d a cabinet in a data room, as well as high-end users.” The ever put water into their enclosures, today, they’re ask- products and technologies designed to support low and ing other questions. Namely, he says, “How do we get it medium heat-load densities are pretty well established, installed, and what is the total cost of ownership/return he says, and include server cabinets with characteristics on investment? (TCO/ROI)” that include perforated doors and mounting rails. Typ- Villa reports that Rittal has completed one study and is ically, enclosures of this sort can accommodate 8 to 10 working on another that can, in fact, quantify TCO and kilowatts of heat per cabinet. ROI. Savings can be realized, Villa explains, by reducing the number of enclosures needed to house servers, thereby Liquid-cooled method saving floorspace. Additionally, the water-cooled system The technology that has gotten Rittal the most press the lets users turn off and/or not have to purchase computer past few years, however, has been its closed-loop close- room air conditioning units (CRACUs), which can, above coupled solution. This proprietary liquid-cooled solution and beyond saving the costs of these units, entitle some uses water rather than air as the cooling agent. “Every- data centers to rebates from their electric utilities. one understands the physics of water versus air,” Villa states. “We know that refrigerants, such as water and gas, A versatile approach Panduit (www.panduit.com) recently introduced the Net- PATRICK MCLAUGHLIN is chief editor of Cabling Installation & Access Server Cabinet, adding it to a product line that Maintenance. Maintenance. already included the Net-Access Switch Cabinet. ➤ www.cablinginstall.com Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ October 2007 ■ 35 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F While the two systems’ dimensions are the same, the compo- “Everything that’s done in the data center, when you follow nents within them make them appropriate for housing either industry understanding of best practices, is really designed to sep- switches or servers. arate the supply air from the return air as much as possible. That’s Panduit’s business development manager, Charles Newcomb, why you want to seal off access cutouts, floor tiles, blanking tiles, explains: “Thermal management is very different for each and locate your cooling units in hot aisles so you prevent your application. In general, switches breathe side-to-side while return air path from migrating into the cold-aisle space.” servers breathe front-to-back. Cable management is key in Seaton continues, “All those design considerations and best these environments, and it is important to have a cabinet that practices that we define as ‘best practices’ are geared to ac- allows you to properly route cables—to route them away from complish as much separation as possible to keep supply air, as switch exhaust and intake.” delivered to equipment, from exceeding the clinical definition Newcomb says that switches “typically do not comply with hot- of what a hotspot would be.” aisle/cold-aisle designs, so the Net-Access Switch Cabinet was Chatsworth’s solutions continue on those best practices, specifically designed to provide large pathways for cable routing Seaton says, but take them to an extreme. The company’s pas- and airflow. To optimize switch performance, exhaust ducting sive cooling system represents one of three approaches to hot direct hot air from the switch out of the cabinet to the hot aisle.” air/cold air isolation: “You can build a room around a cold aisle He adds, “A server application is very different. It is important and keep it separate from the rest of the data center so your return air is in free space and returns to CRA- “Cable management is key in these environments, CU, without mixing with the cold aisle. Or, you can build a room around a hot aisle, and and it is important to have a cabinet that allows you duct the air out of the room directly back to to properly route cables—to route them away from youCRACU, a solution like ours, taking Or, the can use thereby keeping separation. ad- vantage of your suspended ceiling plenum switch exhaust and intake.” space and accomplish the same thing.” to block airflow between the cold aisle and hot aisle. Blanking The CPI system employs several accessories to accomplish panels ensure air cannot pass from cold aisle to hot aisle.” hot-air/cold-air isolation, including raised-floor grommets, Cable management is important here too, Newcomb says, snap-in fi ller panels, mounting rails to seal the front of the but it presents a different set of challenges. “A server cabinet cabinet from the back, and a vertical exhaust-duct system. contains lots of cables, but of different types—power, as well as These three manufacturers offer a sampling of the many copper and fiber communications cables,” he notes. “It is criti- enclosure products available with some form of thermal man- cal to provide cable pathways to route cables away from server agement built into them. Importantly, each vendor says their fans and remove airflow blockages behind servers. Those block- individual systems are not standalone solutions to the heating/ ages trap air inside, and force the server to operate at a higher cooling issues affecting data centers. temperature. A way to eliminate that is to allow the flexibility Next month, we will have further commentary from these to mount patch panels vertically. The width of the Net-Access and other industry experts on the topic of taking a holistic Server Cabinet allows patch panels to be mounted outside the approach to thermal management. traditional 19-inch area.” Marc Naese, solutions development manager with Panduit, Cabling Installation & Maintenance adds, “The lifecycle of equipment in a data center can be two to three years; the lifecycle of a cabinet is much longer. Users Tell us your story. expect their cabinets to be able to grow with the infrastructure, and serve them every time they change out equipment.” We’ll tell the world. If you have taken part in the design, instal- Consequently, notes Naese, “most data center managers are lation, or maintenance of an interesting or moving away from 24-inch cabinets and going to a wider cab- unique premises-cabling project, let us know. We inet, where they can efficiently manage more equipment.” may feature your story as an article in Cabling Installation & Maintenance. Sealing off access The merits of isolation between hot air and cold air are also For more information, contact senior associate editor Patrick McLaughlin at evident in the TeraFrame series of enclosures from tel: (603) 891-9222 or Chatsworth Products Inc. (CPI; www.chatsworth.com). Ian e-mail: patrick@pennwell.com. Seaton, the company’s technology marketing manager, reflects, 36 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F DSL? Triple-Play? Ethernet? You’re covered for the long run. Meet the SharpTESTER Access Line, the new authority in access network testing. Featuring a powerful multiservice testing approach, the AXS-200 SharpTESTER goes beyond traditional performance assessment and fault characterization: it provides accurate pinpointing for every part of your network—a ready-made solution for delivering flawless broadband services. Integrated test platform Ethernet Copper/DSL/triple-play Optical-link characterization EXFO ruggedness for the access network Weather-proof Outside-plant-certified Intuitive interface One-touch test functions Clear pass/fail assessment: or Color transflective screen Discover it at EXFO.com/sharp. www.EXFO.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F Pigtail Splicing Redefined Poli-MOD ™ 24 Fiber Poli-MOD with optional Poli-MODs in LanSystem™ Universal Mounting Bracket 4RU Patch Panel Increase rack density with AFL Telecommunications’ Poli-MOD With the capability to convert a standard 4RU high patch panel into a patch and splice configuration supporting up to 288 fibers – yielding 2,592 terminated fibers in a standard 7 foot rack – Poli-MOD redefines fiber density, splice organization and flexibility. www.AFLtele.com © 2007 AFL Telecommunications LLC. C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F www.cablinginstall.com security Surveillance market seeing many IP rumblings O ver the course of just a couple of months, several announcements from the Acquisitions, alliances, and increasing attention are more evidence of the shift to Internet Protocol-based systems. surveillance industry un- tric Building Automation business unit, adds: “The com- derscore the notion that the technology is increasingly bination of our companies will create a unique portfolio moving in the direction of Internet Protocol-based of products, services and solutions in the building man- delivery. The often-used-but-rarely-defi ned term “con- agement industry. Pelco’s unique position in IP-based vid- vergence” is typically invoked to describe a setup in eo security represents a tremendous additional organic which several systems run over a single, structured in- growth opportunity. With this acquisition, a very impor- frastructure, and that term applies to several of the re- tant additional step is made to further reinforce our lead- cent happenings in the security/surveillance industry. ership in open and integrated solutions for building IT.” On August 1, Schneider Electric (www.schneider- ___________ The financial aspects of the acquisition break down ________ announced it was acquiring security-sys- electric.com) as follows: The price to be paid for Pelco is $1,220 mil- tems provider Pelco (www.pelco.com) for $1.54 billion lion, expressed as an enterprise value on a cash-free/ in a deal expected to close this month. debt-free basis. In addition, Schneider Electric According to the companies, Pelco will pay to the sellers the net pres- will report into Schneider Elec- ent value of a tax benefit tric’s Building Automation busi- resulting from the ness unit, encompassing power and step-up of Pelco’s heating, ventilation, and air-condition assets, representing (HVAC) control plus electronic security and $320 million. As a fire safety applications, and will assume leadership of consequence, the Schneider’s present Fire & Security product division. total price paid in “This acquisition significantly reinforces our build- cash at closing will be ing automation business unit,” comments Jean-Pascal $1,540 million. Pelco had a net debt of Tricoire, CEO of Schneider Electric. “Pelco systems will roughly $139 million as of June 30. integrate gradually into our power and control solutions As the acquisition awaits T-crossing and I- for buildings and infrastructure. Security offers a highly dotting, Pelco continues to bring to market attractive growth profile and video is becoming the key new IP-based video surveillance technol- application in the building management market.” ogies, some of which are designed to pro- Arne Frank, executive vice president of Schneider’s Elec- vide a bridge between existing analog and new digital systems. Last month, the com- While this network camera from Axis Communications can point at pany expanded its Endura IP video secu- many points within an enterprise, companies including rity system with the addition of a CommScope are pointing their attention at alliances with new software version, mapping security-system providers like Axis. tools, intelligence encoders, a gateway, and wireless encod- MATT VINCENT is senior editor and PATRICK MCLAUGHLIN is chief ers and transmitters. editor of Cabling Installation & Maintenance. Maintenance. “Whether customers are ➤ www.cablinginstall.com Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ October 2007 ■ 39 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F looking for a sensible migration path from analog to digital, a According to Peterson, as part of CommScope’s Alliance digital extension to an existing analog system, or a full digital program, the relationship with Axis Communications is system, the solution built on the Endura platform can evolve expected to open opportunities for CommScope to promote to meet customers’ demands,” says Rob Morello, Pelco’s senior the idea of an intelligent building infrastructure to customers product marketing manager for digital systems. around the world by linking them to an expert in converged surveillance operations. Other forms of partnership “In order to allow our customers to deploy a high-quality, Meanwhile, a major name in the IP-surveillance market- top-performing, and seamless network for all IP devices, Com- place has partnered with the market-share leader in struc- mScope is combining our strengths in the physical infrastruc- tured cabling systems. In mid-August, CommScope (www. ____ ture space with the strength of companies that have their own commscope.com), provider of the Systimax and Uniprise ___________ unique expertise,” he continues. “In the security space, Axis brands, announced an alliance with Axis Communications has the clear leadership and expertise in IP-based video sur- (www.axis.com). veillance. We believe that the alliance represents a great way “In order to be more diligent and efficient with security to help our customers receive exceptional intelligent build- programs, many companies are merging physical security ing solutions.” departments with IT departments,” comments Mark Peter- The two companies plan to engage in cross-training pro- son, senior vice president of enterprise global marketing at grams with their sales force. “We believe the training will CommScope. “In addition, many organizations are planning assist with the delivery of prompt responses to customers’ to add more intelligence to buildings, where data, building needs,” says Peterson. “In addition, this alliance may culti- automation and safety and surveillance systems all con- vate the need for more education within the consulting com- verge on a single infrastructure platform. With this alliance, munity about convergence, recognizing the potential benefits CommScope and Axis help bring the intelligent building to from the collaborative designs of surveillance systems and IT customers.” network infrastructures.” ➤ _______________ 40 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS BF BECAUSE YOUR BUSINESS RUNS THROUGH US All New Cable Design From Berk-Tek! A New Breed of Fiber Optic Cable All of the cool data centers are using it. Berk-Tek’s new patent-pending MDP fiber optic cable has been designed Finally, a fiber optic cable designed specifically for data center and storage area exclusively to deliver best-in-class micro-cabling technology specifically network applications. Berk-Tek’s Micro Data Center Plenum cable construction to indoor-only DC/SAN and building provides a 50% smaller cross-sectional area than equivalent fiber count indoor backbone environments. fiber optic cables. This prevents cabinet and pathway congestion and allows for Intelligent Design enhanced airflow. The result: more efficient cooling. Available from 4-72 fibers Over 50% smaller than ribbon cable All Berk-Tek MDP cables are offered in multimode and single-mode fiber No preferential bend, as is common constructions, including GIGAlite™, GIGAlite-10 and GIGAlite-10XB, the in ribbon cable Incorporates all-dry loose-tube industry’s highest performing laser optimized 50 micron fiber. Engineered to technology reduce cabinet and pathway congestion and to make installing, terminating Available with aluminum or steel interlocking armor and subunit handling easier, MDP is the choice for all your DC/SAN installations. Improved ease of installation, termination and subunit handling For more information on Berk-Tek’s patent-pending Micro Data Center Plenum fiber optic Available pre-terminated with cable, call 1-800-BERK-TEK or visit www.berktek.com, Quick Search Term: MDPFOC. multifiber or single-fiber connectors NEW 48F 48F STACKED MDP CABLE RIBBON CABLE (0.231“ OD) (0.520“ OD) MICRO DATA CENTER PLENUM (MDP) www.berktek.com Illustrations enlarged for detail. C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS BF

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F “CommScope is helping us communicate more effectively Users taking notice to our customers the importance and benefits of an intelli- End-user organizations from many vertical markets are tak- gent building network system where all applications, from ing particular notice of the theme of IP convergence. The pro- servers to video surveillance system, are converged onto one fessional organization ACUTA (www.acuta.org) is an example infrastructure platform,” remarks Fredrik Nilsson, general of such attention. The abbreviation originally stood for the manager of Axis Communications. “We are thrilled to have Association of College and University Telecommunications an opportunity to build upon CommScope’s expertise while Administrators, but in time, the group’s scope went far beyond delivering the latest converged video security solutions to our telecommunications technologies. While it has kept the name customers.” by which it has become known, today, ACUTA bills itself as the Association for Communications Technol- ogy Professionals in Higher Education. ACUTA recently announced the agenda for its fall seminars, being held this month in Minneapolis, MN. Educational sessions concentrating on converged mobile communications will address topics such as campus Wi-Fi, wireless local networking, mobile phone financial issues, and mobile integration. On the business continuity and disaster recovery side, presenters will cover topics that include campus emergency response, emergency notification options, • Smart Solutions: NVR, IP software, hybrid systems and campus security issues. A “simulated IT • Powerful monitoring features included department disaster” will also be staged. • Megapixel IP cameras and analog cameras “This year’s Fall Seminars will deal with • Open integration with other systems some of the most pressing issues facing • Simple, cost-efficient IP camera licensing ACUTA member colleges and universi- ties,” comments Jeri Semer, the organiza- • One easy to use, powerful interface tion’s executive director. “How to cope with the surge in wireless communications and deal with emergencies on their campuses are major concerns today. In our seminars, the educational sessions combine with extensive networking opportunities, so communications technology professionals can learn from each other, developing information sources and contacts that benefit them and their institutions.” More and more, professionals concerned with enterprise communications systems and their infrastructures are required to become knowledgeable of several different systems. While those systems still include voice and data transmission, sometimes voice and data are one and the same, as in Voice over Internet Protocol. Ad- ditionally, security applications of many www.exacq.com • 317.845.5710 stripes, including surveillance, emergency response, and access control, are now within the realm of communications systems managers’ responsibility. 42 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F Don’t trust your cabling to just anyone. Choose the experts in Cable Management. Whether you are upgrading your current infrastructure or designing a new installation, trust the experts at Chatsworth Products, Inc. (CPI), to deliver the most comprehensive line of Cable Management Products in the industry. Over 500 Standard Cable Management Products • Extensive selection to satisfy various applications • Provides vertical and horizontal options in a variety of widths, heights and depths • Available to meet project scheduling needs Critical Cat 6a Support • Designed to meet ANSI/TIA/EIA installation guidelines for Cat 6a cabling and fiber • Proper bend radii ensures maximum quality of data transmission • Meets high-density cabling requirements Cost Effective Solutions • Quality products that simplify network maintenance and costs • Easy moves, adds and changes to save time and money • Supports future growth and cabling demands At CPI, we don’t just take your order. We work with you personally to find a solution for your specific project. If you need a design that we don’t currently offer, CPI will create a custom solution to fit your exact requirements. www.chatsworth.com or techsupport@chatsworth.com 800-834-4969 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page Contents Zoom In A 7 Installation Maintenance Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGSF Leviton makes it easy When reliability and performance are of the utmost importance, choose Leviton connectors featuring Retention Force Technology® (RFT). This state-of-the art patented technology (available in our CAT 5e+, CAT 6 & CAT 6A connectors and patch panels) includes a polymer spring to support tines against deformation from 4P and 6P plug insertions. Damaged connectors are expensive to replace, an estimated $150 for one connector. With Leviton’s RFT, users are guaranteed long term reliability and performance; eliminating costs involving customer service calls, new connectors, contractor wages, technical support, and delivery. Leviton makes it easy and reliable with RFT. For more information, call 800.722.2082 or visit www.leviton.com __________ RETENTION FORCE TECHNOLOGY Available in our Cat 5e+/Cat 6/Cat 6A jacks & panels Reduced tine contact failure RFT Long-term network reliability and performance Patented polymer spring Saves $150 per jack in replacement costs Minimized labor costs leviton.com :: 800.722.2082 :: FAX 425.483.5270 ISO 9001:2000 registered quality manufacturer :: © 2007 Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGSF

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F Compiled by Steve Smith Berk-Tek unveils smaller diameter fiber cable for data centers I ncorporating a patented dry loose- tube technology in a smaller outside diameter, Berk-Tek’s new Micro Data Center Plenum (MDP) fiber-optic cable technology is designed to relieve congestion in the data center and storage area The MDP cable design for data center and SAN installations incorporates Berk-Tek’s patented dry loose-tube technology in a smaller outside diameter. A pioneering 40-Gbit optical active cable network (SAN). The MDP cable’s patent-pending con- B lazar, a 40-Gbit optical active cable (OAC), and billed as the world’s first CMOS Photonics product, will combine the benefits of optical modules and copper cables to deliver a high-bandwidth interconnect solution for InfiniBand and 40-Gbit struction provides 50% smaller cross-sectional area than comparable fiber-count indoor cables, which Berk-Tek claims proprietary rack-to-rack interconnect applications. will help prevent cabinet and pathway With support for Quad Data Rate (QDR), congestion by enhancing airflow and the singlemode cable’s 40-Gbit band- allowing more efficient cooling. width and extended reach up to 300 With plenum ratings up to 72 fibers, meters is designed to overcome speed the MDP cables are available with alu- and range barriers that have limited In- minum or steel interlocking armor, as finiBand applications to small computer well as pre-terminated cable assemblies clusters. Developer Luxtera (www.luxtera. with multi-fiber MTP/MPO connectors com) says Blazar will enable InfiniBand ___ or single-fiber type connectors (e.g., SC, to become “a ubiquitous data center Blazar, said to be the industry’s first 40-Gbit ST, and LC). interconnection” for a wide range of appli- optical active cable, combines optical “The MDP boasts a size and weight that cations that require higher capacity and modules and copper cabling to provide is half that of competing cable designs, performance. high-bandwidth interconnection to the data and has made possible specific enhance- “This is a groundbreaking technology,” center. ments to system performance, reliability, says Jag Bolaria, senior analyst at The modularity, and flexibility in the NetClear Linley Group (www.linleygroup.com). “Migration to 40G connectivity allows for denser [partnership with Ortronics] solutions clusters, and the 300 meter range extends the reach of these clusters. This should for high-density data centers and storage have a positive impact for high-performance computing and data centers.” area networks,” says Beni Blell, RCDD, Luxtera says Blazar will enable data center managers to fully populate racks with fiber-optic product business manager at servers and switches, eliminating the need to expand physical facilities to increase Berk-Tek. computing capacity. In addition, the cable’s power consumption is rated at 2.2 “When combined with the Ortronics watts per cable end, resulting in 0.05 watts per gigabit of data, reducing the overall (www.ortronics.com) 12- or 24-fiber MPO power consumption required by data centers to power network equipment, and sig- low-loss cassettes and cable management nificantly reducing cooling costs. systems,” Blell claims, “a far superior By permanently attaching fiber cable to optical transceivers, and powering four offering to the data center/SAN system transmitters with a single hermetically sealed laser, Blazar is designed to reduce designer has now been made available.” installation and maintenance costs while providing more reliability compared to typi- Berk-Tek says that, compared to tra- cal VCSEL-based technologies. ditional ribbon interconnect, premises Blazar connects to a system via a QSFP MSA-compliant connector cage. The elec- distribution, and indoor/outdoor loose trical cage is SFP+ compliant, which enables it to support data rates of 1 to 10.5 giga- tube cables, the MDP offers “improved bits per transport lane, for a total throughput of up to 42 Gbits/sec. density, ease of installation, termination, Luxtera will begin sampling Blazar later this year, with production quantities avail- and sub-unit handling.” able in 2008. Cables are offered in multimode and singlemode fiber construction. www.cablinginstall.com Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ October 2007 ■ 45 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F Hybrid connector solution developed for harsh environments A pplied Optical Systems (AOS; appliedopticalsystems.com) has developed a long-distance hybrid ca- occ.com) MX-Series Messenger Cable, the pull strength on the F-Link solution exceeds 250 pounds, and functions well bling system built to carry electrical in an outdoor environment. and multi-channel fiber optics for Sound & Signal Systems replaced LAN and wireless LAN (WLAN) the previous broken connections in harsh environments. with F-Link products on approxi- The F-Link family of products is mately 40 portable buildings and, equipped with up to 34 fiber-optic according to Ahlgrim, there has not channels and a fiber-optic backshell, been a single breakage problem since. plus plug-and-play connectors and He adds that the system has reduced terminals. While comparable opto- overall costs from tens of thousands electrical systems have connectors that of dollars to just hundreds of dollars can withstand 20 to 30 pounds of strain, per relocation. the F-Link connectors are designed with “We now have about 400 to 500 a strain resistance of 250 to 400 pounds F-Link systems deployed within the dis- (depending on quality of fiber or compos- Applied Optical Systems’ F-Link long-distance trict, and it’s growing every day,” says ite cable), making it suitable where high hybrid connector system carries both electri- Ahlgrim. “Though the district is not real- winds or rough handling may occur. cal and multi-channel ﬁber optics for LAN and ly seeing the huge savings yet, they’ll start In addition to many industrial ap- WLAN applications. seeing it as they move from area to area plications, F-Link is also being used in connections, and vandalism. Research- and experience the savings based on the portable classrooms for school districts, ing a supplier of plug-and-play opto-elec- ease and simplicity of un-plug and re-plug, where frequent handling and vandalism trical technology led Ahlgrim to AOS, saving on labor, repair, and replacement are issues. The Albuquerque, NM Public whose products include ‘tactical’ fiber- costs. Plus, connector inventory is greatly School District, for example, owns more optic connectors conforming to mili- simplified, and maintenance personnel than 1,300 portable buildings, and each tary specifications. can be trained on a single, easy system.” year, 150 or more of them are relocated. “AOS tailored their F-Link platform to As a result of the success of the F-Link Substantial costs result from hiring a con- keep the cost down while also provid- connector in the portable classrooms, tractor to disconnect and re-connect the ing a system that is robust and rugged the Albuquerque school district has de- data communication lines that integrate enough for the environments we’re put- cided to use it for its intercom, fire alarm, the classroom with the school. ting it in,” Ahlgrim says. “Continuous security, and phone systems throughout “It costs tens of thousands of dollars vandalism of the previous ‘quick discon- all of its facilities. every time we have to cable a group of nect’ product led the school district to re- portables,” explains Doug Ahlgrim, solve the issue with the first installation (Freelance technical writer Ed Sullivan of RCDD/NTS, of Albuquerque-based of the F-Link interconnect system. When Hermosa Beach, CA contributed to this Sound & Signal Systems. “That was used with Optical Cable Corp.’s (www. article.—Ed.) ____ much too wasteful, so we developed a ‘quick disconnect’ plug-and-play design Cabling Installation & Maintenance that would facilitate hooking up or un- Editorial Mission hooking a hybrid plug-and-play design Installers of premises and campuswide communications systems face constantly evolv- that would facilitate connection or dis- ing standards, products, and technology. Keeping pace with these changes requires connecting all low-voltage systems.” access to current inform-ation from informed peers who are knowledgeable in fiber To ensure lasting performance and and copper technology relative to premises communications. Cabling Installation & Maintenance provides peer-to-peer perspective in its interpretation of standards and durability, Ahlgrim’s team had to technology, its presentation of installation techniques and in the selection and use of address New Mexico’s seasonal temper- products in premises communications. ature extremes, rough treatment of the 46 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F ON-TIME DELIVERY IS NOT AN OPTION. To call it an option implies we offer something else. At ScanSource Security, our 600,000 square foot warehouse, ﬁlled with the most up-to-date products, like Panasonic video surveillance products, is located right on the property of one of the world’s largest overnight delivery companies. And because our logistics team is focused on speed, accuracy, and accountability, we’ve been able to achieve a 99.7% shipment accuracy rate, even while offering free shipping on most orders. Which means you can keep your promises to your customers. And we can keep our promise to you. 800.964.8994 | www.scansourcesecurity.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F Structured cabling system aimed at home, small office markets D esigned for managing high-bandwidth content within a small office or home network, Telect’s (www.telect. Color-coded connectivity within Telect’s Media Gateway lets small office and home network users match Category 5e and RF video connectivity com) Media Gateway system address- ___ numerical and color-corresponding and distribu- es the need to distribute, manage, and wall outlets with ports in the panel for tion compo- deliver ever-increasing data rates quick connection or simplified recon- nents, along throughout a small network. figuration for future service changes. with wall out- Featuring a flexible design and a color- lets for each coding system to simplify connectivity, signed for simplified structured cabling office or home location. It sup- Media Gateway includes central distri- management. ports distribution of video-on-de- bution panels, wall outlets, cabling, and “A well-designed network is absolutely mand, high-speed data, IP video, and accessories to enable triple-play (voice, crucial for successfully delivering high- VoIP applications. Enhanced cable video, data) distribution throughout an bandwidth content,” says Mark Hawley, management in the panel includes cable office or home. The color-coded connec- Telect’s broadband solutions program tie-downs to keep installations clean, and tivity system helps users match numeri- manager. “The Media Gateway will ap- space for jumpers and other cabling. cal and color-corresponding wall outlets peal to everyone, from service providers Media Gateway systems support with ports in the panel, while clearly la- to developers, home builders, installers, applications ranging from new housing/ beled connectivity modules, splitters, and end users.” greenfield developments to retrofits in and other devices in the panel are de- The patent-pending system features existing homes and office spaces. ___________ 48 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F Short runs… RICHARDSON, TX—Network infrastructure developer CommScope Both were unaffected, with the LANmark-10G cable continuing (www.commscope.com) has formed an alliance with network to meet all requirements of the draft TIA 568-B.2-10 Augmented video solutions provider Axis (www.axis.com) to deliver intelligent Category 6 specifications. “The performance of the LANmark- building solutions to its customers. “To be more diligent and 10G cable combined with the co-engineered Clarity 10G efficient with security programs, many companies are merging termination products from Ortronics allows the NetClear GTX physical security departments with IT departments,” says Mark channels to be intermixed with channels of lower category Peterson, senior vice president, global marketing/enterprise at performance, without interference,” says Jim Frey, Berk-Tek CommScope. “In addition, many organizations are planning copper products manager. to add more intelligence to buildings, where data, building DUBLIN, IRELAND—A newly released study from Research and automation and safety and surveillance systems all converge on a Markets, “2007 Global FTTH—Fibre Networks Becoming a Reality” single infrastructure platform. With this alliance, CommScope and (www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/544344), finds that fiber- Axis help bring the intelligent building to their customers.” to-the-home deployment worldwide “will be much faster in areas NEW LONDON, CT—Following tests conducted at the Nexans where there are clear business models for it,” and that “education Data Communications Competence Center, Ortronics/Legrand is just one of the important social aspects of fibering up countries— (www.ortronics.com) and Berk-Tek (www.berktek.com) say interactive video is going to add that special element to education, their warranted NetClear GTX 10G UTP cabling system can be which will make fibre-optic networks even more important for installed alongside existing NetClear structured cabling systems community social structures.” The report provides insight and within the same pathway without performance degradation of analysis into the trends and developments taking place in the FTTH either system. The tests placed Berk-Tek’s (a Nexans company) sector, taking a global overview, as well as providing information LANmark-10G Augmented Category 6 in the same raceway as targeting North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, LANmark-1000 and LANmark-2000 Category 6 cables. and Asia Pacific markets. _________________________________ www.cablinginstall.com Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ October 2007 ■ 49 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F NAIL DOWN L OW VO LTAG E B R AC K E T THE SAVINGS LOW VOLTAGE MOUNTING BRACKETS LVN1 w/ nails for CLASS 2 WIRING LV1 Just nail or screw these Single-gang Low Voltage brackets to a wood or Mounting • Seats wall plates steel stud – and you’re flush with Bracket ready to install low mounting surface voltage Class 2 wiring! • Adjusts to fit Recessed • Lower cost than 1/4" to 1" thick Screw Hole extension rings drywall or paneling seats wall plate flush with wall • Non-conductive • Installs faster surface • Eliminates costs less than metal! pushback Thin 3-gang Front Lip LV3 Faster to install 2-gang seats better than mud rings! LV2 on drywall © Arlington Industries, Inc. LVN2 © 2003, Rev 2007 Arlington Industries, Inc. Also available: Screw-on LVS1 & LVS2 for steel Oval 4-gang Hole LV4 for final shifting, straightening of device Patented Patented Arlington 800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com Arlington 800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com EMT BUSHINGS THE LOOP L OW- C O S T H A N G E R ™ THE BEST CABLE PROTECTION f o r C O M M U N I C AT I O N S C A B L E 5" • Fast & easy press-on installation 2.5" TL50 Flexible and 2" • Holds tight as cables are pulled TL20 TL25 non-metallic, • Protects cable from abrasion The LOOP holds a 2" to 5" • Can be substituted for costly fittings diameter bundle when used just for wire of CAT5 or fiber optic cable for 1/2" to 4" without sagging, bending or damaging EMT • Rigid • PVC the cable! TL50 for a 5" diameter The 2.5" TL25 holds bundle the same amount of cable as a J-hook at 1/2 the COST! © 2001-2006 Arlington Industries, Inc. © 2001, Rev 2006 Arlington Industries, Inc. Listed for Air Handling Spaces Listed for R Air Handling R Spaces Patented. Arlington 800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com Arlington 800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F New Products Compiled by Steve Smith Handheld OTDR agement of large cable bundles. Available charger are included. SC, FC, ST, and Weighing in at 1.7 pounds, the Noyes sizes are: 42U/600-mm, 48U/600-mm, universal 2.5-mm adapter tips are OFL 250 is a singlemode handheld and 42U/750-mm. available. OTDR with integrated optical power APC FIBER INSTRUMENT SALES meter (OPM), laser source (OLS), and www.apc.com www.ﬁberinstrumentsales.com visual fault locator (VFL). Featuring Interlocking armored cable Universal splicer short dead zone This 12-strand, 62.5-μm multimode The Universal Mechanical Splice (UMS) and mid-range optical-fiber cable needs no pre-installed system can splice fiber from 250 to dynamic range innerduct, providing a single-pull solu- performance, the tion that can reduce labor and cost. The OFL 250 is suited for testing optical fibers in FTTx networks. It supports automatic and man- 900-μm with a single-hand action. The ual set-up, precision event analysis, and lightweight, handheld wedge tool device, multiple wavelength testing. Other fea- cable’s aluminum interlocking armor is measuring 142 × 57 × 22-mm, offers a tures include 12-hour battery life, inter- designed to provide maximum protec- cost-effective alternative to pre-connec- nal data storage, and USB connectivity. tion in remote or harsh environments. torized cables for FTTx installations. All models come with a carry case, SC Especially suited for Gigabit Ethernet The UMS has been tested in accordance and FC adapters for the OTDR/OLS backbones where ruggedness and rodent with Telcordia GR-765-CORE generic port, 2.5-mm universal adapters for the resistance are required, the lightweight, requirements for singlemode optical OPM and VFL ports, USB cable, AC pow- flexible cable is UL-listed and plenum- splices and splicing systems, demonstrat- er adapter with country-specific power rated, and is available in customer-spec- ing maximum insertion loss of 0.5 dB cord, and a user guide. ified lengths. and an average return loss of 40 dB. AFL TELECOMMUNICATIONS BLACK BOX FUJIKURA EUROPE www.aﬂ tele.com www.blackbox.com www.fujikura.co.uk Deep enclosure Scope with probe Digital balun for A/V The NetShelter SX This compact, handheld video fiber-optic The digital FatCAT series of precision 1200-mm deep enclo- microscope includes a 200× probe baluns is designed for distributing HDMI sures, built for deeper that’s designed for inspect- servers and larger vol- ing adapter umes of cable in data panels. The mi- centers, is five inches croscope fea- deeper than a standard tures a bright 1070-mm enclosure. It 3.5-inch dis- includes an additional play, variable pair of cable channels coa x ia l i l- video in the back that en- lumination, and audio sig- able organization of more power and data and contrast nals over Category cables, and additional room to mount up 5 or 6 cable. Incorporat- to four vertical rack power distribution ing a proprietary HDMI Path technology units on the side of the enclosure. This en- that prevents EDID miscommunication closure also features larger cable openings and results in a clean HDMI signal transfer along the sides of the roof to enhance cable and bright- from source to display, the FatCAT series access, while an enlarged center rear open- ness control. Li-Ion supports video resolutions up to 1080 p ing is designed for better routing and man- batteries and AC and meets the HDMI 1.3 standards ➤ www.cablinginstall.com Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ October 2007 ■ 51 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F New Products for fully high-definition performance cision mechanical termination of sin- capability. Both the transmitting and glemode and multimode fiber. No receiving units are available in either proprietary tools, epoxy, or hand-polish- free-standing or wall-plate versions. (The ing are required, resulting in quick field wall-plate version includes an additional termination. FastCAM is available in LC, coaxial digital audio signal port.) SC, or ST singlemode or multimode (50/ KEY DIGITAL 125-μm, 62.5/125-μm, and Laser Opti- www.keydigital.com mized 50/125-μm) configurations terminated on 250 or 900-μm buffered fiber. Pre-polished LCs cess. It features a 125° C temperature LEVITON VOICE & DATA DIVISION FastCAM LC fiber-optic pre-polished www.levitonvoicedata.com rating, high proof test level, and max- connectors are designed to provide pre- imum resistance to moisture in such Hard coating 62.5-μm applications as utility control rooms, This 62.5-μm optical-fiber cable with factory automation, indoor and out- hard clad silica (HCS) fiber coating is door industrial manufacturing, and designed for high bandwidth communi- infrastructure industries. Bandwidth is cation in industrial environments, and greater than 200 MHz-km at 850 nm. especially suited for environments with OFS/SPECIALTY PHOTONICS DIVISION high pull forces. The fiber is available www.ofsoptics.com cabled and preterminated from the factory or can be field-terminated with Rear-loading panels ST and SMA connectors using the com- Available in flat and angled versions, Clar- pany’s simplified “crimp and cleave” pro- ity individual jack panels use reduced- MicroScanner 2. Envision cable verification raised to a higher power. Introducing MicroScanner2 – a revolutionary way to verify voice/data/video cabling and services. It streamlines verification testing by displaying key results – wiremap, pair lengths, cable ID and distance to fault – all on one bright oversized screen. Plus, its built-in RJ11, RJ45, and coax ports test virtually any low-voltage cable with no need for adapters. With all this plus 10/100/1000 Ethernet, POTS, and PoE service detection, it’s clear this is one high-powered tester that’s going to streamline your voice/data/video testing in a blink of an eye. Take a virtual demo today. Visit www.flukenetworks.com/SeeMicroScanner2 and find out how you can win one for yourself. MicroScanner2 C a b l e Ve r i f i e r N E T W O R K S U P E R V I S I O N ©2007 Fluke Corporation. All rights reserved. 02114 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F New Products other discontinuities that can affect per- locate faults in up to formance and result in signal loss. It also 5 km of fiber. It ac- size aids end-to-end fiber identification within cepts all standard Clarity 6 and 5E a fiber bundle, or when looking for cracked 2.5-mm optical con- panel jacks that can be terminated fiber in splice cases. It pinpoints problem nector types for single- and snapped in place from the back of areas on an optical fiber by generat- mode and multimode the patch panel. The recessed design pro- ing a bright red glow at the fault site. operation. vides a low-mounted profile and directs The pen-size FFD100 uses a 635-nm PHOTONIC PRODUCTS LTD. patch cords to vertical management in red laser diode with CW operation to www.photonic-products.com limited rack space. These panels feature universal TIA-568A/B wiring and support 110 termination practices. ORTRONICS/LEGRAND www.ortronics.com Data center cabinet The NET-ACCESS server cabinet system is designed to manage, protect, and show- case cabling and equipment by providing open-rack accessibility with the aesthetics and security of a cabinet. The cable management design organizes power and data cables through vertically-mounted patch panels and power outlet units, reducing patch cord slack, improving airflow, and enhancing network reliability. A scalable thermal management design provides a migration path from initial power and thermal requirements to future higher heat densities. For added thermal management, a rear cooling door option leverages IBM cooling technology to eliminate hot spots and enable increased server density. ______________ PANDUIT www.panduit.com _______ Fiber fault-ﬁnder The battery-powered FFD100 fiber fault detector quickly locates breaks, bends, and www.cablinginstall.com Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ October 2007 ■ 53 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F Product Focus: patch panels Category 6A angled connectivity Test-built Category 5e and 6 panels CopperTen Augmented Category 6 (6A) angled patch panels Allen Tel patch panels undergo thorough in-house and optimize 10-Gbits/sec transmission performance with nationally recognized tests for channel compliance exceed- offset jack positioning to coun- ing TIA/EIA Category standards. A full array of Category ter the negative 5e and 6 patch panels are available, with Category 6A effects of alien panels pending. In addition, rack- and crosstalk. The an- wall-mount fiber-optic gled port design cabinets—the equiva- is built to improve all as- lent of copper patch pects of managing horizontal cable and patch cables while im- panels—provide the proving density when used with the company’s Glide Cable same reliability and flex- Management. This patch panel is designed to prevent ibility. All copper and fiber unintended disconnects and cable damage, and protects bend patch panels are available radius to avoid violations that can result in signal degradation. exclusively through Graybar The system’s patent-pending design also minimizes alien cross- (www.graybar.com). talk and insertion loss, and meets the performance require- ALLEN TEL ments of IEEE 802.3an and TIA 568-B.2-10 draft standards. www.allentel.com ADC www.adc.com Rack-mountable ﬁber termination 1U, 48-port system Light-Link LanSystem series of rack-mountable fiber termina- 10GX 48-port ultra-high-density patch panels fit into a 1U space, tion patch panels are available empty for complete field config- compared to similar systems requiring 2U. When used with uration, with adapters ready to accommodate field-installable the company’s high-density modular racking system, the 10GX connectors or factory preterminated cables, and preterminated patch panels deliver four times the density of standard panels. with cable stubs or pigtails. An aluminum construction is Units are available for Category 5e, Category 6, and Catego- designed to save weight and ease installation. Smaller 1U and ry 6A, and are suited for data centers, equipment distribution 2U panels can support patch, patch and splice, or splice-only, areas, and other high-throughput environments. The heart while the 3U and larger panels feature a removable master of the 10GX is modules that incorporate three patent- pending technologies: MatriX IDC locates each IDC connector at a right angle to its neighbor, effectively can- celing out alien near-end cross- plate and cable guide trays to simplify field provisioning and talk; FleXPoint provide unobstructed access to internal components. Patch PCB is a flexible printed circuit board configuration designed and splice panels feature a telescopic 48-position splice tray to provide excellent crosstalk performance up to 625 MHz; that provides full access to all splices without having to search X-Bar is a termination technology that enables precise, accu- through or unstack traditional splice trays. The LanSystem is rate positioning of each UTP pair for termination on the mod- available with densities ranging from 6 to 288 fibers, and rack ule’s IDC pins under typical field conditions. sizes up to 9U. BELDEN AFL TELECOMMUNICATIONS www.belden.com www.afltele.com 54 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F THERE ARE THOSE WHO WANT TO INSTALL THE BEST CABLE AND THOSE WHO HAVE TO When even the slightest delay can mean the difference between disaster and success, there’s no room for compromising on data cable. That’s why more network designers choose Superior Essex for critical environments. Our data cable products are engineered to outperform the industry standard on every level – for customers whose networks are anything but standard. For detailed performance information and real-life case studies, visit www.spsx.com/comm/performance C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F Product Focus: patch panels Housings for various connector panels, modules Pretium Connector Housings, feature a removable top that slides designed for the LAN and data center forward, providing unencumbered environment, accept numerous con- access to interior components. A nector panels and modules. Avail- rack-mountable Pretium 1U Housing, able in a wide variety of port counts with the capacity to hold 96 fibers, and connector styles, these housings fits into a 19-inch utility rack, while are four inches deeper than standard the Pretium 3-Module is a 1U hous- connector housings, and are shipped ing that holds three reduced-depth with everything needed for immediate Plug & Play System modules. When deployment. The Pretium 4U housing using LC duplex or MT-RJ adapters, accepts 12 of the company’s CCH connector panels or connec- 24 fibers per module are available, providing a total modular tor modules, and contains an integral hinged jumper manager 1U density of 72 fibers. on the front. The 1U and 2U housings accept two and four CORNING CABLE SYSTEMS CCH connector panels or modules, respectively. All housings www.corningcablesystems.com Preterminated and ready to go RapidNet ports to fit into the same footprint, allowing for more The RapidNet modular patch panel is a preterminated plug-and- network flexibility. According to the company, proven installa- play system requiring no on-site termination or certification test- tion time reductions of 85% or more have been achieved. The ing. Simplified installation is via RapidNet cassettes that snap company terminates and tests each link, and provides testing into the panel. The 1U modular panel accepts four cassettes, results with each order. while the 2U panel accepts eight cassettes. These panels, HELLERMANNTYTON which fit on standard 19-inch racks, allow both copper and fiber www.hellermann.tyton.com Cable management trays included The company’s copper and fiber patch panels comes with integral cable management trays for cable strain relief and cable dressing. Ports can be labeled or color-coded using an icon for site- specific administration. PowerCat 6 patch panels feature DataGate Plus, a spring-loaded RJ-45 connector with proprietary shutter designed to protect the connector from Rack-mount Category 5e, dust and contaminants, and to Category 6 panels eject improperly seated patch The Unity series of Category 5e and 6 patch pan- cords. PowerCat 6 angled panels is designed to exceed all standards performance els are built for high-density requirements, and built for maximum performance termination in open bay rack headroom plus optimum qual- installations where extensive ity and reliability. All panels side and end-of-rack cable man- are 19-inch rack-mountable, agement is needed. The an- support TIA/EIA 568-A and gled design eases port access 568-B installation require- and minimizes patch cord bend ments, and are compatible with 110 and Krone punch- radius. Other solutions include down tools. Patch panels are available in sizes ranging the C5e UTP high-density panel, 10G FTP and C5e FTP panels, multime- from mini-12 ports to 96 ports. Custom patch panels dia units, and C6 and C5e intelligent infrastructure management panels. are also available to meet proprietary needs. MOLEX PREMISE NETWORKS GRUBER INDUSTRIES www.molexpn.com www.gruber.com 56 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F The Kwik-LatchTM design is integral to Cope’s Cat-TrayTM cable tray products. Kwik-LatchTM allows the sturdy steel cable tray sections to quickly snap together for the easiest installation in the industry! This integral latch system makes even the most complex field installations a snap – change directions or navigate around obstacles with ease! Cat-TrayTM makes your cable tray installations flexible, quick, and easy! Cat-TrayTM – The Trusted Name in Wire Basket Tray Systems Ask your local sales rep for the Cat-TrayTM catalog today! Or, get it online at: http://www.alliedeg.com/cope Allied Tube & Conduit • AFC Cabling Systems® • Power-Strut® Metal & Fiberglass Framing • Cope® Cable Tray Cat-Tray, Kwik-Latch, Cope, Allied Tube & Conduit, AFC Cable Systems, Power-Strut, and Tyco are trademarks or registered trademarks of Tyco International © 2007 T.J. Cope, Tyco International. and/or its affiliates in the United States and in other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective owners. C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F Product Focus: patch panels Maximum density in 1U Clarity maximum density patch panels offer 48 ports of Cat- performance measurable in the link or channel. Icon-compati- egory 6 or 5e performance in 1U, suitable for data center ble for simplified port identification, the RoHS-compliant patch and other high-density installations. These patch panels are panels feature universal T568A/B wiring, and support standard 110 termination practices. They come supplied with 24 rear-loading dual port termination modules to service 48 ports. Individual dual port jacks in a range of colors, ETL-tested and verified plus unloaded panels, are also available to support field- to TIA Category 6 and 5e component specifications. They are configured installations. precision-tuned with Clarity patch cords, using the company’s ORTRONICS/LEGRAND center-tuned technology for improved crosstalk and return loss www.ortronics.com Zero-U patch panel The patent-pending VertiGO Zero-U patch panel consumes Power over Ethernet panel no rack space, eliminating interference with cooling racks or The DPoE 1Gig 24-port pow- other panels. VertiGO can be installed in server cabinets, free- er patch panel extends the standing racks, on a lad- capabilities of a network’s der tray, or in raised floor infrastructure by support- installations. A hinged open- ing Power over Ethernet ing makes this patch panel (PoE) devices, such as more adaptable to moves, IP telephones, wireless adds, and changes, and access points, and IP net- protects terminations when work cameras. The sys- the door is closed. A magnified label holder improves visibility tems offer scalability by inside dark or far-away spaces. VertiGO panels are available enabling network managers in the company’s QuickPort and Opt-X styles, and compatible to buy only the ports and with copper and fiber connectors to maximize versatility in a power they need, when they variety of media applications. The panels can also share mount- need it. Two power buss ing hardware with existing servers. inputs provide power redun- LEVITON VOICE & DATA DIVISION dancy, load balancing, and www.levitonvoicedata.com zero transfer time in the event of a power disruption. Built- in network manageability lowers operational costs by pro- Rack-mount RJ-45 alternative viding remote accessibility, usage and status information, The VisiPatch 360 system is both an RJ-45 alternative rack- and management of multiple sites with a single graphical mount patching solution and an optimized wall-mount system user interface. designed to make cable management easier. By protecting PANDUIT www.panduit.com cords away from the user and into the patching field, VisiPatch 360 makes the patch cord plug-end more accessible, and simplifies reading of labeling information for faster moves, adds, and changes. Built to reduce cord clutter and patch cord and cable congestion, the VisiPatch 360 system supports 10-Gbits/sec and 1-Gbit/sec applications. Snap-together components enable simplified installation, while a modular design provides versatility for both small and large installations. SYSTIMAX SOLUTIONS www.systimax.com 58 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F Advanced Fiber-optic Technologies WEBCAST While copper-based cabling systems reach new engineering heights to accommodate today’s fastest available data rates, fiber- optic systems can boast of having supported these applications for years. The relative stability of fiber gives many users the impression 7 ER 1 N that it is relatively dormant as a medium, with little technological CTOBISTRATIO webcast development taking place. And still, the perception exists that an O E REG optical infrastructure brings with it a significant cost hike over a FRE m/ .com install mixed fiber-and-copper plant. g ! .cablin NOW This web-delivered seminar produced by Cabling Installation & www N UP Maintenance seeks to clarify some misconceptions and detail SIG important information about the installation, use, and maintenance of fiber-optic cabling systems. From cost comparisons, to what’s in the short- and long-term future, to getting the most of the installed fiber plant, this seminar puts optical networking and cabling systems into perspective. Presentation 1: A cradle-to-grave cost examination of optical systems Presentation 2: Impending standards and the fiber solutions for each Presentation 3: Testing fiber infrastructure for today’s applications Moderated By: Patrick McLaughlin, Chief Editor Date: October 17, 2007 Time: 1:00 pm EDT/10:00 AM PDT Sponsored by: C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F Product Focus: patch panels Compact ﬁber distribution system Designed to meet cable management needs of larger fiber-optic The FDUs are designed to provide crossconnect and intercon- networks in data centers, telecom closets, and central offices, nect between fiber distribution cables and fiber-optic equipment. the 8400 Series fiber distribution system is a compact solution Available for rack-or wall-mount applications, the system uses a common set of coupling adapter plates available in common connector styles, singlemode and multimode, and simplex and duplex. Rack-mounted vertical jumper organizers with top and bottom troughs allow for simplified storage and access to jumpers and patch cords within or between racks. Rack-mounted FDUs are modular and accommodate from 24 to 144 connector ports. Three sizes of wall-mounted FDUs have lockable doors and accommodate from 12 to 48 fiber connector ports. All components are galvanized steel with options for customization and growth. The 8400 consists with baked powder-coated epoxy paint for long life. of individual fiber distribution units (FDUs) plus a broad range 3M COMMUNICATION MARKETS DIVISION of coupling plates and fiber cable management components. www.3M.com/telecom Speedy copper, ﬁber solutions The company’s line of patch panels provides fast network trans- Custom passive patch panels mission speeds (up to 10 Gbit) and supports a wide variety of White Sands Engineering builds custom passive patch applications with the functionality and compatibility found on panels to customer specifications, with ports for all types name-brand panels. Category 5e and 6 panels come in 12, 24, of connectors, including coax, telco, and fiber. Panel fea- or 48 ports, with 1U feed-through or wall-mount designs. The tures include 1U to 4U (or larger) height, standard or high- density port spacing, and custom screening or labeling. Blank panels, right-angle brackets, and lashing bars are company’s 16-port fiber-optic panels are available in LC/LC, also available. As a provider of cabling products for CMTS MTRJ/MTRJ, SC/SC, ST/SC, and ST/ST. Heavy-duty, 14-gauge (cable modem termination system) applications, the com- steel wall-mounted brackets are an alternative to a full-size pany specializes in panels designed to simplify head-end rack, while laser-cut metal construction keeps all edges smooth, wiring. reducing the possibility of injury or wear on cable jackets. WHITE SANDS ENGINEERING TRIPP LITE www.whitesandsengineering.com www.tripplite.com MTP-style 1U panel At 1U high, these MTP-style fiber- optic patch panels feature 16 MPT couplers, and are especially suited for data centers or where management of MTP ribbon fibers is required. In addition, the company also manufactures MTP panel-mount L-COM CONNECTIVITY PRODUCTS couplers, as well as MTP connector and coupler dust covers. www.l-com.com 60 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F New Products Surface-mount seal standard requirements, and are com- SS-60300 Series of Category 6A jacks in A surface-mount version of the Air Guard patible with standards-based RJ-45 out- patch panels and wall outlets. Cable Seal is designed to reduce cool-air lets, ensuring long-term resistance to STEWART CONNECTOR/BEL FUSE loss in data centers. Although packaged humidity-based corrosion, extreme www.belfuse.com/stewartconnector with mounting hardware, an adhesive temperature, and airborne contaminants. The cords use include a color- Ethernet, WAP device coded clip feature, allowing simplified SMCWEB-N EZ Connect can operate in patch field identification and manage- either wireless access point (WAP) mode ment. The MC plugs offer an ultra-slim to add high-speed wireless connectivity boot for tight side-stackability in high- to the network, or in Ethernet client mode density patching environments, and its cantilevered latch protection limits snagging while allowing the latch to be operated from further back on the plug. SIEMON www.siemon.com strip covered by a foal seal provides an Cat 6A, 7 termination block installation alternative. A 10 × 10-inch The SS-51 Series of punchdown blocks Air Guard covers irregular, existing cut- is engineered to allow field termination outs and protects cable arrangements of insulated 22 to 26 AWG solid copper in up to a 6 × 7-inch area. Overlapping wire in Category 6A and 7 applications to connect multiple Ethernet-enabled brushes seal cable openings to help pre- in which wires are individually shielded. devices simultaneously via an integrated vent under-floor contamination and Employing insulation displacement 4-port 10/100 switch. Featuring advanced overheating of critical equipment by im- contact (IDC) technology, the RoHS- performance and security features, this proving static pressure to cool data center device is especially suited for multimedia equipment. Air Guard’s flame-retardant and security installations. Configuration ABS polycarbonate finish, solid construc- is via an installation wizard, web-based tion, and textured surface complement management interface, and slide switch all floor coverings. for selecting operating mode. PDU CABLES SMC NETWORKS www.pducables.com www.smc.com Hybrid RJ-45 patch cord Ethernet ﬁber multiplexer These 10-Gbits/sec-capable patch cords The TC8518 Ethernet and T-1/E-1 fiber feature a standards-recognized TERA compliant devices are designed for rap- multiplexer multiplexes 8/16/20/24 (Category 7) interface on one end and id mass termination of multiple wires for T-1 channels of 8/16/20 E-1 channels, a redesigned version of the company’s telecom and datacom systems. The blocks and three 10/100 Ethernet switch ports RJ-45-style MC plug on the other. The feature a notched-head design to secure over multimode or singlemode fiber- cord supports current network equip- the wires in the plastic housing before optic cable. (The three Ethernet ports ment, and future application speeds of termination, ensuring a mechanically support non-blocking 100 Mbits/sec 10-Gbits/sec and beyond. Featuring a stable connection between the conductor bandwidth.) The 1U high unit supports Category 7 stranded cable, the hybrid and the terminating contact. This allows distances to more than 100 km and patch cords meet or exceed all 10GBase-T for staggered pair-to-pair arrangements offers standard redundant power in multi-port designs to reduce alien and optics, including automatic ➤ crosstalk in Category 6A applications. The SS-51 Series is most commonly employed in network wall sockets, patch panels and distribution frames, and can also be used in conjunction with the company’s www.cablinginstall.com Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ October 2007 ■ 61 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F New Products switchover. Designed as a point-to- 3-phase 120/208-volt hardwire input/out- the need for heat guns or torches. While point solution for combining mul- put. A static bypass and manual main- shrink tubing must be slipped onto the tiple T-1/E-1 lines and Ethernet tenance bypass are designed to ensure wire prior to connection, X-Treme Tape over a single fiber, the multiplexer continuous availability by safely passing provides immediate insulation with a can extend signals from cell towers to through AC power if the UPS requires permanent air and water seal, no con- central offices, and add Ethernet service maintenance. Battery runtime is scalable nector damage, and allowing for quick to existing T-1/E-1 fiber-optic links. Set- from 5 to 31 minutes at full load with the access to repair or change a connection. up, diagnostics and control is accessed 20-kVA model. The systems are available No-melt capacity is 260° C, with flexibil- by a Web interface, serial console, tel- in 20- and 30-kVA base models, and two ity ranges to -50° C. net, or SNMP management. Diagnostics extended runtime models. VYPAR PRODUCTS include LED indicators, dry contact TRIPP LITE www.vyparproducts.com alarms, and local and remote loopback. www.tripplite.com Fiber optic connectors are SC, and stan- Security DVR dard power supplies are redundant and Insulated wrap For video surveillance installations, the hot-swappable 110/230 volts AC. An alternative to shrinkable tubing, Kollector Lite XG network DVR is de- TC COMMUNICATIONS X-Treme Tape is a self-fusing wrap signed for the company’s ViconNet dig- www.tccommunications.com designed to insulate connections ital and IP-based video management regardless of size or design, eliminating soft ware. Available in 60- and 120-fps 3-phase UPS model, and with up to 1 TB of local stor- SmartOnline 3-phase UPS systems fea- age, the DVR’s flexible frame rate adjusts ture what the company claims is the across the number of camera inputs, let- smallest footprint in their class. Power ting system designers accommodate and battery components have been combined into a single, compact module designed to save floor space. The UPS features on-line, double- conversion operation, required maximum viewing and record- IGBT technology that ing rates by adjusting inputs-per-unit. provides <3% total har- VICON INDUSTRIES monic distortion, and www.vicon-cctv.com Network simulator bulletin boards This 250-kilometer network sim- ulation module is designed as a platform for improved testing and measurement of fiber networks, test 10Gig Testing equipment, and optical subsystems White Paper requiring extended channel lengths. It requires less rack space than com- Learn about the testing parable simulators and eliminates White Paper challenges for 10Gig Without sophisticated frequency Near-End and for higher Crosstalk Figure 1 – returns to digital signal frequencies. Near-End the receiver processing Crosstalk side and techniques This phenomenon White Paper (NEXT) measures competes with “Signal B in the electronics, sets a limit to A” arriving at the same reliable transmission receiver over pair 2 that 2. Ethernet over copper daisy-chaining of multiple mod- cabling and see how new ing signal or NEXT measures in bandwidth is no longer is launched. the crosstalk for twisted-pair possible around ules to achieve longer length sim- multiple Figure 1 illustrates signal that cabling. that wire-pairs Near-End appears at Figure 2). as is the Crosstalk the same case in 1000BASE-T in a two end of the wire-pair cabling link and 10GBASE-T, system. If from which The crosstalk Far-End Crosstalk transmission the test or (FEXT) must simultaneously disturb- depicted takes place Crosstalk in figures be considered is the exact 1 and 2 and tested over same phenomenon, takes place between as well (see but the crosstalk wire-pairs Alien Crosstalk in one cable is a coupling (wire-pairs 10GbE application challenge for unshielded now occurs between wrapped in the same when using twisted-pair wire-pairs sheath). UTP cabling. cabling (UTP) in different, Alien Alien Crosstalk Figure 3 shows as it is the adjacent installation and testing most significant cabling links. will be measured the Alien the bundle as Alien NEXT Crosstalk disturbance upon the in a wire or noise source wire-pair between pair induced and Power under test wire by wire pairs for the Sum Alien FEXT (PSAFEXT) (usually referred pairs, as well as Alien in adjacent cables. Ethernet to as the FEXT. Since s for 10 Gb/s should be victim wire-pair) the combined computed impact of and evaluated must be assessed, many wire-pairs Testing Challenge for wire-pairs Power Sum in in a cabling Alien NEXT bundle. (PSANEXT) air Cabling ulation channels. Modules can over Twisted-P (AXTalk) Alien Crosstalk help combat and testing guidelines New installation guidelines help combat Ethernet over twist- Table of contents for 10 Gigabit/sec The standards T) are still in the to 10GBASE-T field cabling (10GBASE ...2 ed-pair copper Introduction ........... Many issues and requirements testing and certification development stage. and months; we expect the Alien Crosstalk in recent Figure Understanding ....2 have been defined 2 – Far-End 10 Gb/s performance be finalized and (FEXT) how it impacts Crosstalk Gb/s Ethernet will direction ........... ..4 standards on 10 measures of the transmitted Crosstalk . . the crosstalk an over- Testing Alien induced in This paper provides signal and competes wire-pair. . . . . . . . . 5 . . 4 that travels published in mid-2006. test strategy with the clarity the cabling Alien Crosstalk of “Signal . . . 6 length of the cable for the twisted-pair . . . . . . . 4” arriving at Receiver Alien Crosstalk. in the view of the requirements types. . . . . . the performance Applicable cable 4. be built to emulate virtually any measure and certify ........7 and methods to ........... Recommendations ..8 cabling system. ........... of the installed ........... Conclusion . Fluke Networks 3 www.fluke networks.c om Download our white network or scenario, with such paper today at www.flukenetworks.com/10Gig options as specific events at defined locations, multiple connection types, and multiple channels with varied lengths. NETWORKSUPERVISION _________ TIMBERCON ©2006. Fluke Corporation. www.timbercon.com 62 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance www.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F hot products Extend T1/E1 over: Ethernet IP/Ethernet Fiber Miles of Fiber Wire Up to Several Miles of 2-pair Wire www.textender.com 800-432-2638 Data Comm for Business, Inc. _____________ Protect your Connect INSPECT....... CLEAN...... RESTORE..... The NEWest concept in Field Connector Cleaning Kits. Now you have a cost effective Dirty Clean new compression tool for use with a wide variety of connectors including most 59, 6, 7 and 11 “F” connectors and many RCA and IEC connectors. Polished Scratched Compact and sturdy, the CT2 has spring-loaded handles with a push button lock and is designed for easy use in tight spaces. No Includes special adjustments, • Rugged carrying case for protection no adapters… just and organization of supplies • Video Inspector CI-1000 w/ 400x mag. reliable performance • MicroCare cleaning fluid and wipes day after day. For more for wet & dry applications • Ferrule Mate™ SFM-250 for 2.5mm info visit www.ripley-tools.com connections & SFM-125 for 1.25mm or call 860-635-2200 today. applications • Repair Mate™ SFP-Lite for restoration of connector scratches www.SeikohGiken.com Tel: 770-279-6602 46 Nooks Hill Road, Cromwell, CT 06416 USA www.cable-install.com Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ October 2007 ■ 63 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F INDEX OF ADVERTISERS COMPANY PAGE PHONE WEB ADC 23 800-366-3891 www.adc.com AFL Telecommunications LLC 38 800-235-3423 www.afltele.com Chief Editor / Patrick McLaughlin Senior Vice President/Group Publishing Director (603) 891-9222 • patrick@pennwell.com Agilent Technologies 15 800-829-4444 www.agilent.com/find/wirescope Mark Finkelstein ext 5465 Tel: (603) 891-9133; fax: (603) 891-9297 Executive Editor / Steve Smith Arlington Industries Inc 50 800-233-4717 www.aifittings.com mark@pennwell.com (603) 891-9139 • stevesm@pennwell.com Belden/CDT C3 800-BELDEN-1 www.belden.com Associate Publisher/National Sales Manager Senior Editor / Matt Vincent Ed Murphy (603) 891-9262 • mattv@pennwell.com Berk-Tek 41 800-BERK-TEK www.berktek.com PennWell Corp./ATD Byte Brothers 53 800-999-2983 www.bytebrothers.com 98 Spit Brook Road Circulation Manager / Michelle Blake Nashua, NH 03062-5737 (603) 891-9360 • michellb@pennwell.com Snake Tray 800-308-6788 www.snaketray.com Tel: (603) 891-9260; fax: (603) 891-9245 edm@pennwell.com Mylchreest Art Director / Kelli Chatsworth Products 800-834-4969 www.chatsworth.com Commscope 20 www.commscope.com/ Digital Media Account Manager Lead Illustrator / Dan Rodd Maureen Christenson designguide Tel: (603) 891-9423 Senior Vice President/Group Publishing Director Cope - Allied Electrical Group 29, 57 800-882-5543 www.alliedeg.com/cope maureenc@pennwell.com Mark Finkelstein (603) 891-9133 • mark@pennwell.com Corning Cable Systems C2 800-743-2671 www.corning.com/cablesystems Reprint Sales Diane Troyer Associate Publisher/National Sales Manager Daimler Chrysler Vans 18-19 800-4ADODGE www.dodge.com/sprinter Tel: Murphy Ed (603) 891-9385; fax: (603) 891-9245 Datacom For Business 63 800-432-2638 www.textender.com dianet@pennwell.com (603) 891-9260 • edm@pennwell.com Diamond Ground Products 63 805-493-3837 www.diamondground.com List Rental / Bob Dromgoole (603) 891-9128 • bobd@pennwell.com CABLING INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE Engineered Products Company 12 866-631-4238 www.pducables.com EXECUTIVE AND EDITORIAL OFFICES Exacq Technologies 42 317-845-5710 www.exacq.com INTERNATIONAL SALES PennWell ATD EXFO 37 www.EXFO.com Australia/New Zealand / Glenn Clarke 98 Spit Brook Road Fax: +61 NH 03062-5737 Nashua, 3 9 568 4955 Fiber Instrument Sales 31 315-736-2206 www.fiberinstrumentsales.com glennclarke@build.com.au Tel: (603) 891-0123, fax: (603) 891-9245 Fluke Inc. 6-7 www.flukenetworks.com/seehow Internet: wwww.cablinginstall.com France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Andora, Greece, Fluke Inc. 52 www.flukenetworks.com/ Spain, Portugal, Western Switzerland / Luis Matutano SeeMicroScanner2 Tel: +33 1 39 66 16INQUIRIES: 1 39 23 84 18 SUBSCRIPTION 87; fax: +33 luism@pennwell.com change your format to print or digital, For subscriptions or to Fluke Inc. 62 www.flukenetworks.com/10Gig please go to: www.cim-subscribe.com. Subscriptions outside Austria, Eastern Europe, Graybar Electric Company, Inc. 5 800-GRAYBAR www.graybar.com the USA are available in digital format only. Germany, Northern Switzerland / Holger Gerisch Tel: +49 8801-302430; fax: +49 8801 913220 Hellerman Tyton 34 800-822-4352 www.hellerman.tyton.com/cm1 holgerg@pennwell.com Hyperline Systems Canada 25 866-63-HYPER www.hyperlinesystems.com India / Rajan Sharma ICC Premise Wiring 1 888-275-4422 www.icc.com Tel: +91 11 686 1113; fax: +91 11 686 1112 rajan@interadsindia.com JDSU 33 805 383-1500 www.jdsu.com/know CORPORATE OFFICERS Israel / Dan Aronovic Leviton 44 800.722.2082 www.leviton.com Tel: +972 9 899 5813 Lauinger Chairman / Frank T. aronovic@actcom.co.il Live Wire & Cable 62 888-897-6008 www.live w-c.com President and Chief Executive Officer / Robert F. Biolchini Italy / Vittorio Rossi Prudente Megger 24 800-723-2861 www.megger.com/sct Tel: +39 0 49 87 Officer fax: +39 0Wilmoth 98 Chief Financial 87 584; / Mark C. 49 66 04 x8518 prudente@aviationweek.com Micro Care Corp. 49 800-638-0125 www.MicroCare.com/ ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY DIVISION Russia / Anton Antoniuk CableBandwidth Tel: +7 095 234 5678; fax: +7 095 234 5665 Senior Executive Assistant anton@ccc.ru Carol Woodward Mohawk 8 800-422-9961 www.mohawk-cable.com U.K.(603) 891-9112, fax: (603) 891-9287 Tel: & Scandinavia / Amanda Loftus Optical Cable Corp. 2 800-622-7711 www.occfiber.com carolw@pennwell.com Tel: +44 0 1793 862111; fax: +44 0 1793 862110 Paladin Tools 16 800-272-8665 www.paladin-tools.com amandal@pennwell.com VP Audience Development / Gloria S. Adams Panasonic PCSC 11 800-662-3537 www.panasonic.com/toughbook/ Asia Sales Manager / Adonis Mak Tel: +852 2 838 6298; fax: +852 2 838 2766 broadbandcable ATD PUBLISHING SERVICES DEPARTMENTS adonism@actintl.com.hk Panduit Corp. C4 800-777-3300 www.panduit.com/opt23 Art Director / Meg Fuschetti Japan / Manami Konishi Pulizzi Engineering Inc. 30 977-PULIZZI www.pulizzi.com Tel: +81 3 5771 8886; fax: +81 3 5771 8887 manami.konishi@ex-press.jp Rodriguez Production Director / Mari Quiktron 40 800-361-0471 www.quiktron.com (603) 891-9193 • marir@pennwell.com Korea / Paek Kwon Ripley Tools 63 860-635-2200 www.ripley-tools.com Tel: +82 2 420 1293 or 1213; Manager2/ 420 1294 Marketing Communication fax: +82 Kristen Jones Scan Source Security Distribution 47 800-964-8994 www.scansourcesecurity.com pkwon@kescor.co.kr (603) 891-9425 • kristenj@pennwell.com Seikoh Giken USA Inc. 63 770-279-6602 www.SeikohGiken.com Singapore,Manager / Indonesia, Thailand Ad Traffic Malaysia, Jackie Linker Grace 832-9314 • jackiel@pennwell.com (918) Leung Siemon Company 26 www.siemon.com Tel: +65 6 836 2272; fax: +65 6 735 9653 gleung@publicitas.com Superior Essex 17, 55 www.spsx.com/comm/ performance Taiwan / Anita Chen Tel: +886 IN8751 USA fax: +886 2 8751 8861 NO. 126813153 PRINTED 2 THE 5162; GST Superior Essex www.NextLANsystems.com anita_chen@globalitmedia.com Publications Mail Agreement Number 40052420 Western Telematic, Inc 48 800-854-7226 www.wti.com The index of Advertiser’s is published as a service. The publisher does not assume any liability for errors or omissions. 64 ■ October 2007 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance wwww.cablinginstall.com C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue Next Page EMaGS B F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F Belden and DuPont ® TM The Clear Standouts in Cabling Solutions Working together, From the new Belden System 10GX® to All of Belden’s limited Belden and DuPont innovative DuPont Abandoned Cable Services combustible cabling lead the industry in to the leading limited combustible cabling products use DuPont products available, Belden and DuPont lead Teflon® FEP insulation creating innovative the way in structured cabling solutions. and jacketing materials structured cabling to lower smoke generation by 2000% technologies and The Belden System 10GX, utilizing DuPont compared to conventional plenum-rated solutions. materials, isn’t simply tweaked Category 6 cable. In fact, no other structured cabling technology. It’s a revolutionary new system company uses as much Teflon ® as Belden! designed around four totally new enabling technologies that deliver on the two most Belden and DuPont clearly critical factors in 10 Gigabit service: reduction do stand out from the rest. of Alien Crosstalk and controlled performance For more information, up to a minimum of 500 MHz. please call Belden at 1.800.BELDEN.1 DuPont Abandoned Cable Services, supported by Belden, consist of a suite of www.belden.com services designed to make understanding and www.dupont.com/ responding to changing building safety codes cablingsolutions __________ and standards relating to cabling simple and affordable. These services identify and report on abandoned cable hazards and provide detailed plans for cable removal management and infrastructure improvement. ® DuPont, Teflon® and the DuPont Oval are a trademark or registered trademarks of DuPont and its affiliates. ©2006, Belden Inc. C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F or NEW Ceramic s e Ferrule Composit Consistent High Performance LC SC ST PANDUIT ® OPTICAM ® Pre-Polished Fiber Optic Easy-to-Use Universal Tool Connectors provide fast and consistent terminations with yield rates approaching 100%. OPTICAM ® Connectors continue to provide installers with a quick, high-yield PANDUIT is a Global Leader pre-polished fiber optic connector solution. New composite ferrules offer an Providing Innovative End-To-End option for behind the wall, fiber to the zone, and panel installations. All innovative, Network Connectivity Solutions patented OPTICAM ® Connectors utilize the same universal tool to achieve the that Enable the Deployment highest yield rates and optimum performance. Experience faster, more consistent of Technology. terminations and reduced installation costs by using OPTICAM ® Connectors. All LC, SC, and ST OPTICAM ® Connectors offer the following benefits: ■ Fiber Cabling Systems ■ Higher yield rates reduce scrap and lower costs ■ Copper Cabling Systems ■ Patented dual cam design effectively eliminates crimping ■ Outlets ■ Re-termination capability ensures consistent termination ■ Raceway Systems ■ 100% factory pre-tested assures high performance ■ Zone Cabling Systems ■ Easy-to-use universal tool virtually eliminates operator error ■ Network Management and Together these features deliver higher yield rates for lower installed costs. PoE Systems OPTICAM ® Connectors are available in singlemode or multimode (10GIG ™, 50μm, 62.5μm) types, in simplex or duplex variations, and with zirconia ceramic or ■ Fiber Routing Systems new composite ferrules (SC and ST, 50μm and 62.5μm) as part of the ■ Racks and Cable Management complete range of fiber optic connectivity solutions available from PANDUIT. ■ Network Grounding Systems ■ Network Identification Systems ■ Network Cable Ties and Accessories PANDUIT is a Technology Developer Partner for Storage Networking Hardware. Visit us at www.panduit.com/opt23 Contact Customer Service by email: cs@panduit.com or by phone: 800-777-3300 and reference ad # opt23 C Previous Page A Installation 7Maintenance Contents Zoom In Zoom Out Front Cover Search Issue B Next Page EMaGS F

Cim 20071001 oct_2007

by Carlos Bonatto

Accessibility

Categories

Upload Details

Usage Rights

Statistics

Cim 20071001 oct_2007 Document Transcript