Cable Pathways: A Data Center Design Guide and Best Practices

Industry Perspectives | Oct 09, 2013

Scott VanDenBerg is Technical Sales Specialist with Optical Cable Corporation.

Everyone has heard the saying: it's the little things that make the biggest impact. This holds true especially when designing a data center. There are many important aspects to consider—from power and cooling requirements, to servers and hardware. Good cable pathway designers know that multiple products must work together to ensure a successful pathway from point A to point B. Let's talk about a few of the key elements.

Pathways allow the placement of data center trunk cables and cross-connect cables between racks and cabinets. Both overhead and under floor pathways should be designed to support the weight of cables in the initial installation and it should also facilitate the addition of future cables. Planning for 90-degree bends, waterfall dropouts and other vertical support methods should be incorporated in the initial design and will allow routing of cable without damage. Pathway products come in a number of different styles:

In order to support existing infrastructure, and plan for future growth, there are a number of key considerations that should be made throughout the design process and installation. Some important things to keep in mind include:

Now that we have considered everything we need to support our cabling above and below the equipment racks and cabinets, we need to consider our cabling pathways in and around the cabinet and or rack.

Outside diameter is the key to reducing cable fill in your cable tray and your cable management. Let's look at the options available.

Cable management in the racks is as important as in the pathways. Waterfalls from the overhead cable supports into the vertical wire managers provide necessary strain relief. Spools that can be attached in the vertical wire manager help maintain bend radius for both copper and fiber cable. Also, Velcro cable supports are reusable and a safe way to secure the cable without damaging it.

There are many things that need to be considered when it comes to cables and pathways in a data center. One thing is for sure: data centers will continue to grow as technology continues to advance the way we live.

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