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CABLING FOR DATA CENTERS

AC/DC power, ground, copper and fiber optic are the main types of network cabling used in data centers. The interface that is available on the equipment used in the data center is the primary means for determining which type of cabling should be used. The network data cabling may also be selected based upon the bandwidth requirements of the equipment being used in the data center.

Overview of Data Center Cabling Types

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Communication StandardApplicationCable TypeConnector Type
10/100Mbps (100Base-TX)EthernetCat 5e, Cat 6, Cat 6a, Cat7, Cat 7aRJ45
1000Mbps (Gigabit or 1000Base-T)Gigabit EthernetCat 5e, Cat 6, Cat 6a, Cat7, Cat 7aRJ45
10Gbps (10GBase-T)10Gig EthernetCat 6a, Cat7, Cat7aRJ45, GG45, TERA
40 or 100Gbps40 or 100Gig EthernetCat7aGG45, TERA
Fiber ChannelHigh Speed EthernetTwinaxial or FiberInfiniband, QSFP, SFP+, 10G - CX4, LC, SC, ST
Fiber OpticHigh-Speed EthernetMultimode (High-bandwidth, Short Distance)
Single Mode (High-speed, Long Distance)
LC, SC, ST, FDDI, MTP, MTRJ, FC, etc.

Connector Renderings

This white paper is for informational purposes only and is subject to change without notice. C2G makes no guarantees, either expressed or implied, concerning the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the information found in this document.