Cim 20080201 feb_2008

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INNOVATION

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by the numbers.

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M SaGEFC7Installation MaintenanceC7



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departments

CABLING INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE © 2008 (ISSN 1073-3108), is published 12 times a year, Februaryly, by PennWell Corporation, 1421 South Sheridan Road, Tulsa, OK 74112; telephone (918) 835-3161; fax (918) 831-9497; Web address www.pennwell.com. Periodicals postage paid at Tulsa, OK 74101 and other additional offi ces. Subscriptions rate in the USA: 1 yr. $78, 2 yr. $100, BG $132; Canada/Mexico: 1 yr. $88, 2 yr. $132, BG $138; International via air: 1 yr. $105, 2 yr. $160, BG $144; Digital: 1 yr. $39. If available, back issues can be purchased for $17 in the U.S. and $22 elsewhere. Editorial offi ces: 98 Spit Brook Road, Nashua, NH 03062-5737; telephone (603) 891-0123. All rights reserved. Authorization to photocopy items for internal or personal use, or the internal or personal use of specifi c 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 offi cers: Frank T. Lauinger, Chairman; Robert F. Biolchini, President and CEO; Mark Wilmoth, Chief Financial Offi cer.

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.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Cabling Installation & Maintenance, P.O. Box 3280, Northbrook, IL 60065-3280. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: P.O. Box 122, Niagara Falls, ON, Canda L2E 6S4. PRINTED IN THE USA. GST No. 126813153 Publications Mail Agreement no. 1421727

FEBRUARY 2008 VOL. 16, NO. 2

9 Improving security througha smarter infrastructureIntelligent physical layer management provides a host of benefi ts, including more secure networks. CARRIE HIGBIE

13 Turning up, troubleshootingVoice over Internet ProtocolEnsuring performance requires test and measurement of all traffi c, and listening to calls. ASSAJI ALUWIHARE, GARY MEYER & THAD WARD

21 Index matching gel stands the test of timeThough misconceptions persist, no-epoxy/no-polish fi ber-optic connectors perform well, thanks to improved IMG performance. RAY BARNES

27 Inside the EPA’s energy effi ciency report Report to Congress details technologies and their impact and implementation in the data center. BETSY ZIOBRON

35 Fiber-optic technologyupdates old-fashioned securitySystems that employ optical circuits to detect intrusion are fi nding deployment in highly sensitive applications. PATRICK MCLAUGHLIN

39 INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT

■ Ortronics, CommScope boost customer service

■ Liberty senior VP to lead InfoComm Manufacturers Council

■ Textron/Greenlee acquires Paladin Tools

■ NASA probes faulty shuttle connector

■ Forthcoming report to assess 100-Gbit/sec opportunities

■ Sumitomo unveils pre-terminated splice-on connector

ABOUT THE COVER

More than a 130-page federal document, the EPA’s

recent report to Congress details recommendations, incentives, and barriers to implementing data center

‘green’ initiatives.TO LEARN MORE,

SEE PAGE 27.

4 EditorialGREEN ON GREEN

43 New Products

45 Product Focus: FUSION, MECHANICAL

SPLICERS

www.cable-instll.com Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ February 2008 ■ 3

COVE

R CO

NCE

PT B

Y KE

LLI M

YLCH

REES

T / B

IGST

OCK.

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4 ■ February 2008 ■ Cabling Installation & Maintenance ww.cable-install.com

PATRICK MPATRICK MccLAUGHLINLAUGHLINChief EditorChief Editor

[email protected]@pennwell.com

Green on green

A few months ago, I broughtup the topic of green build-ings and the Leadership in

Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program by recalling a pre-sentation that was delivered at the BICSI Conference last September

(see “LEED by ex-ample,” October 2007, page 6). Not long after thatarticle was pub-lished, I received a call from a long-time contact of mine, who is em-

ployed by one of the manufacturers in our industry. He had a responseto the fi nal line in my October col-umn: “I’ll be interested to hear more about our industry’s take on LEED.”

His take is that our industry will have a very minimal role in the pro-gram. Many of the products you work with on a daily basis—those that get written about and advertised in this magazine, and displayed at exhibitions, such as those that accompany BICSI conferences—fall outside the realm of what LEED considers, he said.

Aft er taking that call, I said out loud the fi gurative, “I don’t believe it.” It’s not that I literally did not believe the information; it came from a trustwor-thy source who more than deserved the benefi t of the doubt. It was just one of those (many) occasions on which I said one thing and meantanother. What I really meant was,

“I’m surprised to hear that.” Surprised because I have heard all kinds of chat-ter about cabling systems’ potential impact on LEED certifi cation.

Fast forward just a little, and I’m at

BICSI’s most recent conference, held last month. What follows is a truestory: While on the exhibition fl oor with a fellow staff member of this magazine, he was listening to one gentleman talk about the important role cabling-related systems play in LEED at the exact same time that, not more than three feet away, I was lis-tening to another gentleman say that, in fact, most of what our industry concerns itself with is exempt from the LEED program.

As much as that scene might have resembled something from a slapstick comedy, the last thing we want toresemble is an assembly of keystone cops trying unsuccessfully to relayintelligent information aboutcabling’s role in LEED. So, my pledge is this: We at Cabling Installation & Maintenance will work to cut through the clutter and bring you relevant, meaningful information aboutLEED and, more importantly to us in this industry, information about the extent to which it and other environ-mental initiatives will aff ect us.

It appears that many in ourindustry have much to learn about the subject, and I’ll rank myself as the neediest for such information. But hopefully, not for long. Please stay with us as we peel back the layers of what is sure to be a challenging topic for many.

Chief Editor / Patrick McLaughlin(603) 891-9222 • [email protected]

Executive Editor / Steve Smith(603) 891-9139 • [email protected]

Senior Editor / Matt Vincent(603) 891-9262 • [email protected]

Circulation Manager / Michelle Blake(603) 891-9360 • [email protected]

Art Director / Kelli Mylchreest

Lead Illustrator / Dan Rodd

Senior Vice President/Group Publishing DirectorChristine Shaw(603) 891-9178 • [email protected]

Associate Publisher/National Sales ManagerEd Murphy(603) 891-9260 • [email protected]

CABLING INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE EXECUTIVE AND EDITORIAL OFFICES

PennWell Technology Group98 Spit Brook RoadNashua, NH 03062-5737Tel: (603) 891-0123, fax: (603) 891-9245Internet: www.cablinginstall.com

SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES:For subscriptions or to change your format to print or digital, please go to: www.cim-subscribe.com. Subscriptions outside the USA are available in digital format only.

CORPORATE OFFICERS

Chairman / Frank T. Lauinger

President and Chief Executive Offi cerRobert F. Biolchini

Chief Financial Offi cer / Mark C. Wilmoth

TECHNOLOGY GROUP

Senior Executive AssistantCarol WoodwardTel: (603) 891-9112, fax: (603) 891-9287 [email protected]

VP Audience Development / Gloria S. Adams

TECHNOLOGY GROUP PUBLISHING SERVICES DEPARTMENTS

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Production Director / Mari Rodriguez(603) 891-9193 • [email protected]

Marketing Communication ManagerKristen Jones(603) 891-9425 • [email protected]

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THE CUT-OVER.

THE MOMENT OF TRUTH.OCCASIONALLY FOLLOWED BY THE MOMENTS

OF DREAD, BLAME AND CONFUSION.

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 the switch is made from

the old system to the new. 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 like Berk-Tek

can stand up to any ‘moment of truth’ you may encounter. So take a deep breath;

we’ll be right there.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT GRAYBAR.COM/BERKTEK OR CALL 1-800-GRAYBAR(472-9227).





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You’ve probably thought about your data center airflowproblems in terms of below-, through-, and above-the-floorissues. But you may not have considered the problem of cabinet air recirculation, which occurs when the hot exhaust air from the rear of the server migrates towards the front of the cabinet and mixes with the cold, conditioned air sup-plied to the equipment air intakes. This condition increases equipment intake air temperatures, potentially reducing the reliability of IT equipment and wasting energy, which can lead to increased operating expenses.

Upon measuring the temperature and volume of air being drawn into equipment air intakes in cabinets not furnished with blanking panels, Robert “Dr. Bob” Sullivan, Senior Con-sultant at the Uptime Institute, Inc., found that as much as 20 percent of the total volume of air was hot exhaust air re-circulated within the server cabinet. Mixing hot equipment exhaust air and conditioned air from the underfloor plenum creates air temperatures that exceed the recommended 77°F maximum*. This is especially true with cabinets that are more than 50 percent populated. The best way to cope with this problem is to use blanking plates or filler panels. HotLok™ Blanking Panels are the most effective and easiest to install.

Upsite Technologies, Inc., the designer and manufacturer of HotLok Blanking Panels, recently commissioned third-party Innovative Research, Inc. to compare the airflow in and around IT equipment cabinets in three scenarios: (1) in the absence of blanking panels; (2) using blanking panels with horizontal air gaps between adjacent panels, measuring 1/16 inch and 1/8 inch between the panels and servers; (3) and using Upsite Technologies’ HotLok Blanking Panels (no air gaps between blanking panels or between the blanking panels and servers). The findings are published in Upsite’s white paper Two Dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Analysis of Blanking Panel Solutions.

Scenario 2 showed server air intake temperatures were re-duced by 11 to 22 percent compared Scenario 1. Better yet, Scenario 3 (involving HotLok Blanking Panels) proved to be 15 to 32 percent more effective in reducing server air intake temperatures compared to Scenario 1. Finally, using HotLok Blanking Panels resulted in an improvement of up to 14 percent compared to Scenario 2. Overall, the study showed that using HotLok Blanking Panels virtually eliminates in-ternal recirculation between the equipment mounting rails, resulting in uniform inlet air temperatures from the bottom to the top of the cabinet.

HotLok Blanking Panel Benefits:

Reduction and stabilization of equipment air intake tem-•peratures

Elimination or reduction of the number and severity of •hotspots within equipment cabinets

Increased availability, performance, and reliability of IT •equipment within the cabinets

Elimination of exhaust air recirculation within the cabi-•net, allowing for the optimization of cooling and the reduction of energy consumption and operating expenses

The possibility of deferring capital expenses used to add •cooling capacity

The potential for greening the data center by reducing its •carbon footprint

HotLok Blanking Panel Differentiators:

Engineered to provide one of the most effective seals •available on the market

Designed for quick, safe, tool-free installation•

Ergonomically and aesthetically pleasing•

Easy to use, compact to store and keep in stock for recon-•figuring

RoHS- and UL-certified•

Competitively priced •

For the best results, use HotLok Blanking Panels in conjunc-tion with Upsite Technologies’ KoldLok® raised-floor seal-ing solution. Both product lines provide a significant step toward optimizing cooling capacity, lowering your energy bills, increasing IT equipment availability and reliability, and greening your data center.

Infrared (IR) thermal photography highlights the 91.5°F tempera-ture of the gaps between non-HotLok blanking panels in a 72°F data center.

IR thermal photography highlights the consistent temperatures of the heat in the gaps between Upsite Technologies’ HotLok Blanking Panels in a 72°F data center.

Independent Study Shows the Importance of Using Blanking Panels A complete seal is necessary to achieve full benefits

*An American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)-recommended temperature.

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design

Any network manager will tellyou the importance of a fully docu-mented network. Documentation should include all workstations, Internet Protocol (IP)addresses, router confi gurations, fi rewall parameters, and other data. But the documentation may fall short at the physical layer. In particular, older networks that have gone through many moves, adds, and changes (MACs) are not likely to have current documentation.

In real time—during a crisis—it can mean the diff er-ence between quickly solving a problem and wasting precious time locating that prob-lem’s source.

A real-life crisisFor example, a customer recently had anissue with an errant device on the network. Th e company had a fi ve-building campus network, and a laptop was creating a denial-of-service (DoS) attack from the inside due to a virus. Th e switch would shut down the port, and information-technology (IT) staff would go to the telecommunications areato determine the location of the mis-behaving device. But when IT got to the switch’s physical location, the physical layer—largelyundocumented—became an issue because short of trac-ing cable, there was no way to fi nd the laptop’s location.

Th e IT staff began tracing the cables, only to fi nd that the laptop was no longer there; the user believed his loss of connectivity was due to a network prob-lem, and each time he was disconnected, he moved toanother location—only to fi nd that he would soon lose his connection there, too.

In this scenario, the switches were doing their job by shutting down the user’s port. Th e user was “trou-

bleshooting” his own problems. IT was having diffi -culty fi nding the user to correct the problem. And thecycle continued.

Points of compromiseAt one point, the user concluded the problem must have something to do with the equipment on that particular

fl oor, so he moved to anotherfl oor. Aft er being discon-nected again, he decid-ed the problem was with the building’s security set-tings—so, he moved to another building. Again, the cy-cle continued.

Roughly fi ve hours later, the laptop and its user were found and the problems were corrected. For the IT staff , it was fi ve hours of pure chaos; for the user, fi ve hours of pure frustration.

In other scenarios, compliance and overall network security can also be compromised at the physical layer.Most companies have desks and cubicles that are

An intelligent system includes patch panels that are confi gured with a sensor pad above each port.

➤

Improving security through a smarter infrastructure

Intelligent physical layer management can provide a host of benefits, including more secure networks.

CARRIE HIGBIE is global network applications market manager with Siemon (www.siemon.com).





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largely unoccupied and used by staff members who can be considered transient. Conference rooms with available ports can also pose a risk. In many vertical markets in which com-pliance is required, these open ports can cause a company to

fail its audits unless:• Th e ports are shut down completely, or• A means exists by which only certain users can gain access

to the network through these connections.Th e only other option is to fi rewall these ports from the

actual network, which would mean a reconfi guration each time an authorized user wanted to use the port. All these risks and their remedies can be burdensome to an IT manager.

In the data center and telecommunications areas, tech-nicians provide an additional risk if they accidentally unplug something. If, for example, the accidental discon-nect was a Voice over IP switch or a critical server, the results would be devastating. What if a piece of equip-ment containing critical information is removed from a facility, as has been reported in the news many timesrecently? How does a network manager know who hasaccessed the network? Where did this person/these peopleaccess the network? How is access documented? And fi nally,how are MACs managed? Th ese questions are not onlyintriguing, but also extremely challenging to IT managers.

The intelligent answerIntelligent patching has been around for some time; how-ever, functionality has improved from the original releases. In any of the scenarios described above, an intelligent infra-structure management system would have allowed the network manager to right-click on the off ending device, view the entire channel, and even locate the device on a graphical map.

An intelligent infrastructure management system’s graphi-cal mapping capabilities include clear markings of outlet loca-tions on computer-aided design (CAD) drawings. By adding the physical layer, network managers are no longer limited to upper-layer information. While knowing the mediaaccess control address (MAC address—not to be confused with moves/adds/changes), IP address, and logon information is helpful, should physical layer documentation be out of sync with the actual infrastructure, fi nding problem devices canbe daunting. Intelligent patching bridges that gap.

Th e intelligent system works through a combination of sen-sor-enabled hardware and soft ware. On the hardware side, the patch panels are confi gured with a sensor pad above each port. Th e pad is connected to an analyzer via a connection on the

back of the patch panel. A standard patch cord with an addi-tional conductor is connected to the front of the system.

Th e patch cord has a standard 8-pin modular/RJ-45 inter-face or a standard fi ber connector, but also includes a “ninth

conductor” designed to contact the sensor pad. Th is additionalconnection allows the system to operate

in dynamic mode by detecting changes in real time—thusremoving the human-error factor from documentation work as the continuity or changes in continuity provide real-time information to the database.

Th e system works with both copper and fi ber, and is scal-able to let end users purchase only what they need, when they need it. Analyzers are available in a variety of confi gurations as well. Soft ware is purchased on a per-port basis and can work either as a standalone application, or integrated with an exist-ing network-management package.

In an integrated confi guration, a device and its channel can be traced from within a network management package, such as HP OpenView. A simple right-click on the device and the soft ware can be launched, showing an immediate trace of the physical cable. Th e trace includes all the information about the channel, including patch cords, where the channel terminates, and the number of connectors within the channel. It can also

show the physical location of the device on a CAD drawing.Th e soft ware reads the object identifi cation information

for network devices through Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), and can also send SNMP (including Ver-sion 3) traps to shut down ports based on user-defi ned param-eters. Th is provides great benefi t when the physical layer isincluded. For instance, if you wanted to know the location of every personal computer on your network that is running

Each patch cord includes a “ninth conductor” designed to contact the sensor pad, allowing for detection of changes in real time.

The system works with both copper and fi ber, and is scalable to

let end users purchase only what they need, when they need it.

➤










Create labels on your PC and download to RHINO 6000. Or create and print labels at the worksite. Either way, the ruggedaward-winning RHINO 6000 simplifi es labeling with advanced functions that are genuine time-savers.

industry terms and symbols

including graphics and logos

formatting (wire wraps, fl ags, vertical, fi xed-length, patch panel, and more)

© 2007 DYMO - A Newell Rubbermaid Company 31616

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i tw w w. r h i n o l a b e l i n g . c o m / c i m

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LABELING DOESN’T GET ANY

EASIER.


Windows 2000, you could have that information displayed graphically as well as in report format.

Th e Virtual Wiring Closet (VWC) module provides docu-mentation on the telecommunications rack, including connec-tivity, patch-cord length, and where each device is connected.It becomes a data dictionary for your racks and/or cabinets.

Work orders and securityA signifi cant benefi t of the intelligent patching system is that itwill track MAC work automatically, savingIT departments from the manual process of updating spreadsheets and documenta-tion. Th e package also includes a module for work-order creation. Work orders can be dispatched, and the changes automati-cally tracked, allowing a manager to know when the work was completed.

Th e intelligent physical layer manage-ment system can also be integrated withother security systems, such as APC’sNetBotz or video cameras. Based on user-defi ned triggers—for instance, when some-one unplugs a VoIP switch—a camera can snap a picture, write it on the log and, asyou would expect from management soft -ware, can provide alarms via e-mail, cell, or pager, complete with escalation for unan-swered alarms.

Contacts can be placed on entrance doors to rooms or cabinets. As soon as the contact is broken, the same logging can initiate,including a photo of the log indicating date and time as well as photographic/videoevidence of the culprit.

In search of thorough answersWhile this article explains a few of the fea-tures of an intelligent patching system, the overall benefi ts are signifi cant. If we go back to the example described earlier, had anintelligent system been in place, a simple right-click would have saved fi ve hours of chasing down a user. Not only would the documentation be up to date, allowing the network manager to know where thatswitch port terminated in the building, italso could have shown the location graphi-cally. Th e IT staff very likely would have got-ten to the user before his frustration began and he started moving from place to place.

Where security- and compliance-

related issues are concerned, the additional documentation and logging abilities not only enhance a company’s security position, but also answer many of the compliance-relatedrequirements of documentation and access logging.

Aft er all, most troubleshooting and investigations startwith who, what, where, when, why, and how. By addingthe intelligent physical layer to your overall management, the answers to these questions are easier to attain and more thorough.






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When was the last time you looked forward to installing underfloor cabling systems?

With current underfloor cable tray systems, you have to manage the logistics of working around other installers, struggle with attaching the tray system to existing floor supports—and deal with the back and forth of getting the right tools. There’s got to be a better way—right?

Introducing the Cooper B-Line F.A.S.T. System—a new, tool-free option in underfloor cable support.

The F.A.S.T. System is the most Foldable, Adjustable and Stackable underfloor Tray system on the market. It requires no tools and has fewer parts, is simpler to install and doesn’t require installation experience. And, to save time and installation scheduling headaches, it can be installed before the raised floor is in place. Take a good look at the future of underfloor cable tray systems—because it’s going F.A.S.T.

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installation

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) may be viewed by accountants and business owners as a rela-tively new, cost-saving technology for the enterprise. For those commissioning and managing the data net-work transport of IP voice over the local area network/wide area network (LAN/WAN), it may seem like just another application to manage, like e-mail or http.

Yet the nature of the payload—voice, where there is no retransmission of time-sensitive packets—makes VoIP testing and troubleshooting to maintain a high quality of experience (QoE) an entirely diff erent eff ort.

Start with basicsWhen a VoIP call is set up, speech is encapsulated inReal-time Transport Protocol (RTP) that is encap-sulated in User Datagram Protocol (UDP), both ofwhich are transmitted in an IP frame. Each RTP packet contains a small portion of the voice con-versation. Th e size of the voice sample is depen-dent on the codec used to compress the digital bit stream at any endpoint, such as an IP phone.

Th ree common codecs are:• G.711—A high-bandwidth, high-quality, low-

est-delay 64-kbit/sec version; • G.729A/B/C—A low-bandwidth (8 kbits/sec)

codec common across the WAN; • G.723.1—Low-bandwidth (5.3 or 6.3 kbits/sec) but not

widely used for VoIP due to long delay.While a higher-bandwidth codec more accurately

reproduces the analog input signal, it requires ahigher bit rate, which generates more network traffi cand reduces the network’s overall call capacity. Using a lower-bit-rate codec sacrifi ces quality yet uses lessbandwidth.

Real Time Control Protocol (RTCP) allows the end-

points to communicate directly concerning the quality of the RTP packet stream. Th e control plane provides signaling protocols that perform such functions as reg-ister VoIP phones and connect phone calls.

Measuring a subjective experienceApplications such as e-mail and fi le transfers tolerate packet delays and use retransmission of bad or miss-ing packets to achieve error-free performance at the ap-plication level. Because VoIP service cannot tolerateretransmissions and demands priority routing of pack-ets, it places more-stringent requirements on IP data net-works. Ultimately, as with video, VoIP service quality is

determined subjectively by the end users.For voice, unlike data, the key measures of quality are

intelligibility and identifi cation. Intelligibility is the abil-ity to understand what is being said. Identifi cation is the ability to recognize the voice of familiar callers, such as a family member or the boss.

Objective and subjective measurements exist to judge the performance and QoE of VoIP service. Th ese form the basis of good VoIP installation and troubleshoot-ing procedures.

Using network-analysis tools such as this one, the DA-3400, you can test and troubleshoot Voice over IP performance characteris-tics, including Mean Opinion Score.

➤

Turning up, troubleshootingVoice over Internet Protocol

Ensuring performance requires test and measurement of all traffic, and listening to calls.

ASSAJI ALUWIHARE is general manager/network enterprise and test, and GARY MEYER and THAD WARD are product managers with JDSU’s Communications Test and Measurement business (www.jdsu.com)






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Active tests, such as Perceptual Speech Quality Measurement (PSQM), Perceptual Evaluation of Speech Quality (PESQ), and Perceptual Analysis and Measurement System (PAMS) thatuses an analog input signal, each collect known voice samples across the network to a receiving endpoint, where a comparison analysis of the degraded sample is conducted. Th ese are not tones, but rather actual prerecorded WAV fi les available in diff erent languages. Th is test requires two devices (one at each end) and isoft en used to evaluate ability of the existing network tohandle VoIP by generating and assessing calls. (Active tests are not intended for in-service monitoring, analysis andtroubleshooting.)

Th e Mean Opinion Score (MOS) is a passive test that cal-culates voice quality without a reference voice sample,measuring IP transport quality of actual VoIP calls. Usedmost commonly to turn-up, test and troubleshoot networks, the MOS assigns a value between 1.00 (bad) and 5.00 (excel-lent) to the overall quality of delivered voice through a network. MOS does not look at encoded voice, but rather, it rates the IP transport quality of the packets carrying the encoded voice. Delay, jitter, loss, and sequence of packets are measured.

Common degradation problemsSeveral common eff ects impair voice quality on a VoIP sys-tem. Th e test and measurement values important for manag-ing QoE on a VoIP system are: • Latency. Because IP networks operate on statistical mul-

tiplexing technologies, latency in IP networks is usuallyhigher than with analog transmission. Any delay in end-to-end transmission of voice from speaker to listener im-pedes voice quality. IP networks will have varying latency times over a single path depending upon the level of traffi c on the network. In general, lower-bit-rate codec increasesdelay for VoIP calls.

• Packet loss. Th is can occur in many ways. A router or switch queue may be full and cannot hold any more packets, caus-ing arriving packets (segments of a voice transmission) to be discarded. Bit errors may exceed correctable levels, or a packet may be misrouted or exceed its time-to-livequota due to network topology changes or networkcongestion. In either case, packet loss harms VoIP quality.

• Jitter. Packets that arrive at the destination at irregularintervals or out of sequence can make voice choppy and diffi cult to understand. Out-of-sequence packets oft enoccur due to multiple routing paths to the same destina-tion. If packets are out of sequence by only one or twosequence numbers, jitter buff ers on receiving devices can place packets back into order before voice playback. Pack-ets unable to be placed into proper order are discarded by the receiving device—reducing voice quality. Jitter isalso induced when switch or router packet-processing speed

varies or if network conditions change due to congestion or route changes. Th is causes variation in packet spacing, which degrades voice quality. Jitter buff ers on receivingdevices—which themselves cause delay—can only compen-sate for mild jitter.

Assessment, pre-qualifi cationWhile echo is a common complaint with VoIP systems, inreality, it is an analog problem, usually the result of an imped-ance mismatch where two wires convert to four somewhere in the network. While echo is not induced on the IP network,increased latency on voice packets will aggravate echo.

Before a VoIP system can be installed at the premise, the network must be assessed for suitability for transporting VoIP traffi c. Testing and measurement confi rms the abilityof the LAN—switches, routers, and cabling—to handledelay-sensitive VoIP traffi c. Th is step also helps determine load planning for the LAN/WAN and reveals the bandwidth of premises cabling.

Th is phase of testing is typically carried out with handheld equipment, soft ware or passive test devices, each of which look at all the traffi c on the LAN/WAN or home network to assess the quality of the network before VoIP service is added. Test-ing tools determine whether packets are being dropped or lost as they traverse the network.

It is important to note that the network can provide error-free data service while performing very poorly in terms of lost and dropped packets. High throughput can be used to make up for problems such as jitter, latency and packet loss on data transmission. A network that carries data perfectly may not be capable of providing satisfactory quality for time-sensitive, higher-priority packets of VoIP traffi c.

Before service turn-up, it is important to verify connec-

Depending on the test instrument’s capabilities, you can measure and generate reports on VoIP-related issues, such as (clockwise from top right) signaling, packet loss, and jitter.

➤










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tivity to signaling gateways and provi-sion service, and determine call quality. Terminal adapters and VoIP phones or IP phones plug into the LAN, and IP addresses are provisioned. Handheld test sets are normally used because they can mimic an end device in the network. Handheld test sets also help isolate problems. For example, a hand-held device can be used to determine whether a specifi c end device has been provisioned correctly or to identifyerrors in provisioning network equipment during installation.

At this stage of assessment, voice quality issues are exam-ined. Calls are placed and received through the network to ensure that links are provisioned with the correct signaling protocol. Calls are placed within the LAN/WAN and from the LAN/WAN to the public switched telephone network (PSTN). Here, technicians can confi dently confi rm that signalingwithin the LAN/WAN is operational. If voice quality is poor, to isolate problems, you place test calls from one side of the router to another and to the ingress gateway.

While checking VoIP call options, the quality of the RTP

stream can be monitored by listening to calls via handheld units, with the MOS for each connection then measured and logged.

You should perform the following service turn-up andprovisioning tests:• Ping to test registration with proxy server;• Place calls on and off the network;• Trace the call route;• Assess MOS for call quality.

Troubleshooting and maintenanceTh ere are two reasons for troubleshooting: failure or

Common VoIP ailments and causesProblem Likely trouble Common causes

Call will not connect Confi guration error, packet loss Registration problem with call managerGateway provisioning problem

Can makes calls on, but not off, network

Improperly confi gured codecMisconfi guration at PBX/voice bridge

Clicking/popping noises, garbled speech

Packet loss, packet jitter Network congestionBuffer overruns in network elementsPriority queuing and traffi c shaping problems

Calls connect but then drop

Packet loss

Echo or overtalk heard during calls

Packet delay Priority queuing issuesChoice of codecNetwork congestion

➤






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intermittent issues. When the issue is failure, troubleshooting is similar to turnup. You verify onnectivity to local elements through ping, trace routes and call placement. Calls are placed on and off the network, perhaps to the techni-cian’s mobile phone. Test fi les are ex-changed to validate jitter and packet loss. Th e problem can be sectionalized to CPE or carrier.

Intermittent issues are more challenging. Th e circuit must be monitored in-service to determine which calls are experi-encing troubles and when exactly the trouble occurs. Here, it is important to know the profi le of all traffi c riding on the net-work at the time of the trouble. For example, other applications may use more router processing time or bandwidth, which can cause VoIP calls to drop or lose voice quality as packets are lost. Th e only means to determine whether CPE traffi c is the cause is to monitor the whole circuit while the problem is occurring.

Storm watchAnother example of an intermittent problem that can only be uncovered by monitoring all traffi c is a broadcast storm, which occurs as network elements are reconfi gured or moved and broadcast domains are misconfi gured. Th is storm causes broadcast packets, such as a network printer or other network elements that advertise their existence, to fl ood the network and steal bandwidth, impairing voice quality.

Broadcast storms are easily detected with analysis tools that show steep spikes in broadcast packets at the same time asreported VoIP quality problems. Th ese tools also provide guid-ance on what actions to take, and include a list of off endingstations or devices that are allowing packets to broadcast out-side of a specifi ed domain, such as a printer in Hong Kong try-ing to tell everyone in New York that it is available. Th e VoIP problem can beby reconfi guring routers to not send broadcast packets into subnets where they don’t belong.

Capture agents on router/switch ports enable capture and forward of every call that falls below a score establishedthrough MOS or PESQ. Talking on a phone confi gured tohave 20 milliseconds (ms) of voice in every packet, a pack-et should arrive every 20 ms. Variation in arrival time or dropped packets are detected by the capture agent. If the test shows packets with errors, it helps pinpoint VoIP qual-ity issues such as routers dropping packets. If errors are localized, packet errors that degrade voice quality can be stopped. For example, RF, EMI and other noise can cause packet errors. With proper testing, you may fi nd acable run adjacent to a bell that is the source of massivepacket errors every time the bell goes off .

To isolate VoIP problems, the fi rst step is determining whetherthe problem is in the network, a provisioning issue, CPE-re-

lated, or a customer issue. It is always important to evaluate quality from the end user’s perspec-tive, so the fi rst step is to perform an IP phone emulation test. By listening for the reported com-plaint—bad voice quality, echo, garbled speech,

clicking sounds—you can immediately determine if the CPE is the source of the problem.

In the next step, attempt registration of the test device with the gateway/proxy server. Th e test set conducts signaling and displays signaling error messages, as well as proving connec-tivity to the gatekeeper/proxy server and verifying provision-ing of the customer’s unique alias. You can also use this test device to place test calls on and off the network. If off -net calls fail, gateway provisioning may be causing the trouble, or there may be a connectivity issue that can be identifi ed by pinging the gateway device IP address.

Here, you perform a trace route set of tests if the ping test fails, which helps isolate path/device connectivity problems. A handheld test set allows tests from multiple locations to iso-late the source of the trouble. For example, calls can

This display from a VoIP butt set reports on a call that was monitored live.

➤





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be placed from the next router down to the ingress router todiagnose whether the problem is on the LAN or WAN link.

Common troubleshooting tests include handset volume, processor, microphone, earpiece, echo canceller performance; TDM voice quality, echo; network packet performance; packet throughput; packet loss; packet delay/latency; packet jitter. Yet even when jitter and packet loss values are fi ne, there may still be problems reported. Th is is why it’s important to listen to calls. Objective voice quality is established by generating a MOS by

taking measurements at the packet interface of live calls.Of course, customer quality is based upon an experience.

Your MOS values are based upon values generated on a test device; if the test shows a good MOS score, the call must be captured and listened to using a test set with the ability to play back the voice and emulate the actual VoIP phone.

Th e converged enterprise IP network shares many appli-cations: e-mail, data, instant messaging, Internet access and,increasingly, voice. In addition, new applications, server

moves, and adding/deleting workstations, IP phones, and printers are happening allthe time. With such an unstable environ-ment, the load on the network is alwayschanging and can present problems for the VoIP application running on the samenetwork.

When server consolidation occurs, there is now new traffi c over the WAN that nev-er existed and possibly never left the build-ing. More oft en than not, VoIP is a victim of changing IP traffi c. Upon testing, you may fi nd jitter, which is usually caused by excessive traffi c loads on the network. Th e fi rst rule of VoIP troubleshooting is to ask: What else is going on in the network? How come excessive jitter wasn’t there before?

Adding VoIP can cause its own network problems. If e-mail and data have the same priority as voice, then no application has priority. Packets must be tagged properly by CPE and honored by network elements. For example, tests may show that prior-ity is only set in one direction for a par-ticular router, slowing data traffi c. With lots of new VoIP calls on the WAN, when someone tries to do a fi le transfer (which then takes a back seat to voice), the net-work slows and the help desk phone rings. More oft en than not, more bandwidth isthe solution.

When in doubt, listenWhen testing VoIP, it is most impor-tant to remember that this is a voice ser-vice. Measuring jitter and delay provideimportant clues for troubleshooting. Yet at some point, resolving a VoIP problemrequires that you follow the second rule of VoIP troubleshooting:

Listen to calls to maintain and improve QoE for VoIP services.





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technology

As fi ber-optic cable is increasingly deployed in both private and public networks applications, in-cluding FTTx, the need to install connectors in the fi eld continues to grow. Due to the installation speed, reduced setup/teardown time, deployment velocity and convenience, and dramatic labor savings, adoption of no-epoxy/no-polish (NENP) connectors for fi eld termination has shown a signifi -cant increase.

NENP connectors use a factory-pol-ished connector endface in conjunction with a mechanical splice to provide seamless connectivity. Th e reliability and performance of the mechanical splice within the connector is enhanced through the use of silicone-basedindex matching gel (IMG), which is formulated to have an index ofrefraction (IOR) that closely matches the IOR for the glass used in opticalfi bers. In addition, the physical prop-erties of IMG are carefully controlled to ensure optimum performance.

Using IMG allows for greater vari-ation in fi eld cleaves while eliminating the need forfusion-splice equipment or extensive training. In these ways, NENP connectors using IMG are enabling true copper-like optical-fi ber subscriber connections.

IMG past and presentIMG has been an integral part for mechanical optical-fi ber splicing and termination for more than 30 years. Despite the historical and market-based confi rmation of IMG as a viable enhancement for mechanical splice prod-

ucts, there are several misconceptions based on gel for-mulations used up until the early 1990s that were not as carefully controlled as IMG formulations used today.

For comparison, the table “Changes to IMG perfor-mance parameters” (page 22) shows the changes to

performance parameters of past and present IMG formulations used in mechanical splices and NENP connectors.

The performance parameters of today’s optical gel have im-proved markedly over gels used as recently as the early 1990s. Fluid separation and evaporationparameters are 5x and 10x better, respectively. In addition, percent transmittance (%T) has been im-proved from 79% to 97%.

Clarity and optical transmissionOptical clarity of IMG is measured

as the percentage of light transmitted through a 1-cm path-length gel sample. In tests, the percent transmit-ted was measured before and aft er a heat-aging process in which the gel was heated to 80º C for a period of 136 days. Th e table “80° C heat aging for 136 days” (page 22) shows change in %T at the wavelengths commonly used in data-communications and FTTx networks.

Th e decrease in the amount of light transmitted is very small. Additionally, the path length in a typi-cal mechanical splice would be about 10 μm—1,000x shorter than the path length of 1 cm used in the test. If decibel loss were calculated for the values of % T given, the losses would be in the ten- ➤

Index matching gel stands the test of time

Though misconceptions persist, no-epoxy/no-polish fiber-optic connectors perform well, thanks to improved IMG performance.

RAY BARNES, P.E., ([email protected]) is senior applications engineer at Corning Cable Systems.












thousandths of a decibel. Th is is well beyond the measure-ment capability of available test equipment, which may only measure to the hundredths of a decibel.

Another concern is how the IMG’s clarity is aff ected over the normal operating temperature range of -40º to +70º C.Recent testing of IMG used in NENP connectors has con-fi rmed that IMG undergoes virtually no change in the per-centage of light transmitted at temperature extremes. Th e table “Test results in %T” (page 25) shows the test results in terms of change in %T with respect to room temperature (RT). As shown, excellent performance can be expected across a wide temperature range when using IMG.

Gel retention in mechanical spliceAnother misconception about IMG is the belief that the gel will liquefy over time or at temperature and leak out of the connector or splice. Gel retention in mechanical splices and connectors, however, is ensured through careful control of

fl uid separation and apparent viscosity.First, fl uid separation (or “bleed”) refers to oil that separates

from the IMG over time or at extreme temperatures. Exces-sive fl uid separation could lead to the oil running out of themechanical splice. Past formulations have been tested and found fl uid separation values as high as 2%, contributing to the misconception that gel may leave the splice by leakage. Th e IMG used in modern NENP connectors and splices, however, is formulated to exhibit less than 0.2% fl uid separation during a 24-hour heat soak at 100º C—the boiling point for water—which means that IMG will not leak out of the mechanical splice or connector over time or temperature.

Apparent viscosity is another carefully controlled physi-cal property of IMG that prevents the gel from leaking out of the connector. IMG is a thixotropic gel, which means it can fl ow when subjected to high shear, such as during dispens-ing from a syringe. On the other hand, when the gel is at rest between two fi ber endfaces in a mechanical splice, the apparent viscos-ity is very high. In fact, the apparent viscos-ity is like that of gum rubber.

With low fl uid separation, high apparent viscosity, and splice designs that com-pletely enclose and encapsulate splice parts, tests show the IMG used in modern

mechanical splice applications will not leak, wick, or other-wise leave the optical splice.

Gel hardening factorsFour key physical characteristics determine whether a gel will harden or crystallize:

• Fluid separation;• Evaporation;• Th ermogravimetric stability; • Glass transition temperature.Modern IMG used in NENP connectors is designed to have

virtually no fl uid separation. In addition, the IMG exhibits very low evaporation. During a test at 100º C for 24 hours, the gel exhibited less than 0.1% mass loss due to evaporation.

At low and high temperature extremes, the main concerns are glass transition temperature (Tg) and thermogravimet-ric stability, respec-tively. Th e Tg is essentially the temper-ature at which a liquid or gel starts to freeze or becomes a

solid. For IMG, the Tg is -59ºC. Th e mostdemanding applications in optical connec-tions only require the connectors to with-stand temperatures to -40º C.

At the other end of the temperature ex-treme, IMG exhibits very good thermo-gravimetric stability at high temperatures.In tests, the thermogravimetric takeoff

point (the point at which there was mass loss of 1% due to evaporation and chemical oxidation) was measured to be279º C. Modern IMG is designed and tested so that it willremain in a stable gel state throughout the service life ofthe optical device.

Particle contaminantsAnother common concern is that the IMG used in an optical connector or splice may become contaminated. During man-ufacturing, IMG goes through a series of processing steps to ensure optimum performance with respect to particle con-tamination. For this reason, initial particle contaminants are non-existent.

While initial particle contaminants are insignifi cant, some are concerned that IMG will attract dust particles from the air. But manufacturers prevent this from happen-

ing by dispensing IMG into theoptical device in a cleanroom-typeenvironment. During handling prior to installation, the IMG is contained inside the device and protected from exposure by the use of dust caps.

Additional protection against dust particles is provided by

80˚ C heat aging for 136 daysWavelength

(nm)% change after

heat aging

850 -0.027

1300 0.9

1310 0.8

1490 1.2

1550 -3 ➤

Changes to IMG performance paratersPrevious IMG formulations IMG today

Fluid (oil) separation 1.00% 0.2% max., 0.075% average

Evaporation 2.10% 0.2% max.

% Transmittance* 79% 97% after 80°C heat aging

* 1 cm optical path










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the use of active alignment systems incorporated in-to installation tools. Th ese systems give installers a go/no-go indication that the fi ber is properly installed. With these active alignment systems, should a particle of dust get between the fi bers in an optical device, the connec-tor-installation tool would give the installer the opportunity to re-clean, re-cleave and re-insert the fi ber. Once the con-nector or device has been activated, even if the particle has been introduced to the gel, due to the high apparent viscos-ity, the particle will not migrate.

What about liquid contaminants?Th ere is also concern that water or other liquids may migrate or diff use into the IMG at the splice, degrading performance. Several factors the severity of potential migration, including duration of immersion, presence of solvents in the liquid, and the containment of the gel-fi lled splice.

A recent study by a leading IMG manufacturer measured the performance of IMG when exposed to an 85º C/85% rel-ative humidity (%RH) test and an immersion test. Th e test measured initial %T, %T aft er exposure to 85º C/85%RH for seven days, and %T aft er seven days of immersion in de-ionized water. Th e gel-path length for the tests was1 cm. Results of the test are given in the table “IMG per-formance test” (left ).

Th e test data shows practically no change in %T with

IMG performance testWavelength (nm) Change in %T after 85°

C/85% RHChange in %T

after immersion

850 -0.12 -0.27

1300 0.2 0.03

1310 0.14 -0.01

1490 -0.21 -0.13

1550 -0.13 -0.08

With low fl uid separation, high apparent viscosity, and splice

designs that completely enclose and encapsulate splice parts,

the IMG used in modern mechanical splice applications will

not leak, wick, or otherwise leave the optical splice.





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respect to the tests conducted, and proves that liquid contamination will not limit the service life of IMG inchallenging FTTx applications.

Service-life studyMany doubts about IMG concern the material’s service life when used in opti-cal devices. Naturally, products designed for communication purposes should last for decades rather than years. To under-stand the usable service life of IMG, stud-ies using gravimetric analysis have been conducted by both IMG and component manufacturers. To calculate service life for the IMG; it was found the service life of the gel to be 203 years at 40º C.

Another study, by a leading gel manu-facturer, placed an IMG sample at 80º C for 136 days. Based on the fi ndings, the study found a half-life of 14.6 years or a full life of 29.2 years at 80º C. It should be noted that these temperatures are well above room temperature, which is 25º C. Based on the studies, it is easy to see that IMG will allow components to providedecades of service.

Th e optical-components market hasaccepted IMG technology, since virtually every major component manufactureroff ers products that use IMG to enhance optical performance. From mechanical splices to NENP connectors, there is a wide selection of products and competitors from which to choose. With growing bandwidth demand and acceleration of FTTx deploy-ments to meet that demand, IMG will prove to be an enabling technology. With 30 years of innovation and improvement, the IMGs used today are vastly superior to earlier formulations.

Extensive testing has proven the reli-

ability of IMG over a wide temperature range, at a wide variety of wavelengths, and for extended peri-ods of time. With the enhanced performance off ered by IMG, as well as initial tooling and installation-cost reductions, optical components using IMG haveproven that they are not only here to stay but, in fact, are leading the way.

(Th is article originally appeared in the January issue of our sibling publication, Connector Specifi er.—Eds.)

Test results in %TWavelength

(nm)Baseline

RT70° C

-40° C

70° C re-test RT re-test

850 0 -5.2 -0.55 -3.61 -0.47

1300 0 0.06 0.17 1.3 0.14

1310 0 -0.06 -0.31 1.15 0.01

1490 0 0.63 0.51 1.68 -0.07

1550 0 0.82 -0.49 1.7 -0.12






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data center

August 2007’s “EPA Report to Congress on Serv-er and Data Center Energy Effi ciency” (available at www.energystar.com), relates green initiatives and implica-tions for the cabling industry. While its notable fi ndings and industry reaction have been well publicized, the130-page document covers much more than just data center consumption statistics, growth trends, andpotential energy-effi cient scenarios.

Th e Environmental Protection Agency’s report details current energy-effi cient technologies and methods, their impact on the existing power-grid and data-center reli-ability, and the barriers, incentives, and recommenda-tions surrounding their adoption.

Technologies to considerAccording to the report, the energy used by the nation’s servers and data centers in 2006 is estimated at 61 bil-lion kilowatt-hours (kWh), which is 1.5% of total U.S. consumption and more than double the amount of elec-tricity consumed for this purpose in 2000. Using estima-tion methods based on the best publicly available data, the report estimates that, under current effi ciency trends, the energy consumption of servers and data centers will nearly double by 2011.

Potential energy savings can be gained by using the following current and future technologies outlined in the report:

Advanced microprocessors—Th e shift to new low-voltage processors that contain two or more processing cores on a single die off ers a combination of increased performance and reduced energy consumption. Dy-namic frequency and voltage scaling is another ener-gy-reducing feature, allowing microprocessor voltage to ramp up or down based on computational demand. New server microprocessors designed to facilitate virtualiza-

tion are also helping data center managers replace several dedicated servers for energy savings as well as operational effi ciency.

Energy-effi cient servers—Many servermanufacturers are off ering more energy-effi cient servers that not only include the abovemen-tioned microprocessor features but also employ high-effi ciencypower supplies and internal vari-able-speed fans for on-demand cooling. The EPA estimates that, on average, energy-effi cientservers will consume approxi-mately 25% less energy thanother similar server models.

Innovative storage devices—A shift to smaller form-factor disk drives and increased use of serialadvanced technology attach-ment drives make for signifi cant-ly more effi cient storage devices that, according to the EPA re-port, will decrease power use by approximately 7% by 2010.Improved storage-management practices, such as storage virtu-alization, data de-duplication, storage tiering, and the pow-ering down of archival storagedevices not in use, will also go a long way in provid-ing energy savings. Emerging solid-state fl ash memorydevices may also provide more energy-effi cient storage in the data center.

Improved site infrastructure systems—In additionto low-cost measures, such as the use of a hot

The InfraStruXture InRow RP, a row-based computer-room air-con-ditioning unit from APC,

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➤

Inside the EPA’s energy effi ciency report

Report to Congress details technologies and their impact and implementation in the data center.

BETSY ZIOBRON is a freelance writer and regular contributor to Cabling Installation & Maintenance. She can be reached at: [email protected]





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Peak electricity load due toU.S. data centers

Peak loaddue to data

centers (GW)

14

12

10

8

6

4

2

02007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Current efficiencytrends scenario

State of theart scenario

Denver

Detroit

Cleveland Pittsburgh

Baltimore

Boston

PhiladelphiaNew York

Cincinnati

Atlanta

OrlandoTampa

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TucsonPhoenix

Los AngelesSan Diego

San Jose

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Seattle

Criticalcongestionarea

Direction of increased flowsneeded to reduce congestionin critical congestion area

Direction of increased flowsneeded to reduce congestionin congestion area of concern

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aisle/cold aisle confi guration that is now a common prac-tice, innovative power and cooling systems are important toenergy savings because they account for more than 50% ofthe total data center consumption. Upgrading to moreeffi cient UPS systems and water-cooled chillers with variablespeed fans and pumps can provide further energy savings.

Distributed generation and combined heat and power—When distributed generation (DG) technologies, such as fuel cells,microturbines, gas turbines, and reciprocating engines are used in combined heat and power (CHP) systems that use waste heat to pro-vide cooling, the energy savings are astronomical. According to the report, these systems can have payback that range from less than 5 years to about 10 years, depend-ing on the technology. Addition-ally, the use of DG and CHP in data centers can provide increasedreliability, decreased risk oroutages, and easier future expan-sion by avoiding the need for util-ity infrastructure upgrades. Th ese systems also reduce greenhouse emissions.

“Th e key takeaway from the EPA report is that there are many strategies that can be imple-mented in diff erent areas of the data center, and every option described refers to a platform that

data center managers should be looking into.” says Carl Cottuli, vice president of APC’s Data Center Science Center (www.apc.com).

Effects to observeChapters 3 and 4 of the EPA report outline the impact ofdata centers on the power grid, and analyze the potential cost and energy savings associated with the technologies previ-ously described.

“Th e data center is an enormous concentration of powerper square foot, and it’s not unusual for a data centerthat takes up only 15% a facility’s square footage to accountfor half of the entire facility’s power consumption,” saysCottuli. “If data centers managers walk away with theunderstanding that the adoption methodologies outlined inthe EPA report can have a signifi cant impact on the utility bill, then the report has done its job.”

According to the EPA report, a “state-of-the-art” scenarioin which all U.S. servers and data centers operate at maximum energy effi ciency using the technologies and practices outlined above will yield up to 80% improvement in energy effi ciency. In contrast, the “improved operation” scenario that includes current operational energy-effi cient trends with little or

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, implementing state-of-the-art effi cient technologies will dramatically decrease the peak electricity loads consumed by data centers in the United States.

This fi gure, developed by the Department of Energy, highlights metropolitan areas in which the power grid has insuffi cient capacity to meet demand at peak periods. In its report, the EPA suggests data centers in these areas implement what is known as demand response—mechanisms to reduce the demand from electricity customers in response to supply conditions.

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no capital investment will yield only 30% improvement (see “Energy consumption an overriding issue,” Cabling Installa-tion & Mainentance, November 2007, page 33).

To estimate the impact of the projected energy savings on the utility grid and generating capacity, the report also translates the savings into peak power demand using theNational Energy Modeling System that provides a baseline forecast of the U.S. energy sector. According to the report, the

“state-of-the-art” scenario could reduce peak load from data centers over the next fi ve years, which avoids about 600 mega-watts of new power-plant capacity.

While these savings are signifi cant, the report also states that the impact of data centers on the electrical transmission and distribution grids relies heavily on location. While com-

prehensive statistics on data center location are not available due mainly to security and confi dentiali-ty, it is assumed that the majority of data centers are|located in metropolitan areas. Th e movement of large data centers to more rural areas due to lower land and construction costs will have relatively less impact on the power grid, however, the report warns that the building of non-urban data centers in clus-ters could contribute to new areas of grid congestion in the future.

According to the report, more effi cient servers and technologies will continue to focus primarilyon performance with small, infrequent, or irrele-vant latencies. Overall, the equipment will not be less functional, and while some manufacturers may off er models with fewer features as a way to reduce power consumption, only customers who don’t require the omitted features will purchase them.

While some of the methods and technologies will not increase cost, the report states those that do will typically only be implemented when the sav-ings are considerably larger than the cost increase. In general, the potential cost increases are expectedto be much less than the value of lifetime energysavings and avoid site-infrastructure costs, pro-viding a lower total cost of ownership.

Barriers to overcomeTh e EPA report also addresses key factors thatimpede adoption of energy-effi cient technologiesand methods, many of which are the same barriersthat have previously limited adoption of newtechnologies in the industry.

Not surprisingly, cost is the number-one barrier,and many of the report’s suggested efficiencyimprovements are expensive. But money spent on data center upgrades and implementation is more

tangible than money saved on future energy costs, and many vendors are reluctant to sell more expensive products over less expensive options that provide the same function.

“We embrace a pay-as-you-go methodology where you main-tain an effi ciency of 60 to 80%, and when you’re operating at the higher 80% effi ciency, you add more and start back at 60% again,” says Cottuli. “If you do this over the life of the datacenter, the cost is spread out over time.”

Another barrier to implementation is data center manag-ers’ lack of knowledge and responsibility concerning energy costs and a company’s utility bill. Th ose responsible for pay-ing the bill are typically diff erent from those responsible for capital investment, and many data centers are not sole tenants of a given building, or their equipment is being hosted

While some of the technologies and methods described in the EPA report may seem too costly, complex, or risky to implement,

and others are waiting for a standardized measurement, many viable opportunities exist for improving data center energy effi ciency today.

“For years, data center managers have looked at the specifi cations of products to determine power and cooling, but those specifi cations areoften worst-case scenarios,” says Carl Cottuli, VP of APC’s Data CenterScience Center (www.apc.com). “So, all the equipment you purchased was based on a false number to being with, resulting in oversized systems and products. You also have to consider the energy and raw materialsthat went into manufacturing and transporting those products.”

Cottuli adds, “It’s important to look at consumption load and drive these systems dynamically. By understanding what the real consump-tion model is, data center managers can have the same protection but do it cheaper.”

Cottuli points out that high-effi ciency power supplies and cooling sys-tems are available now, and reiterates the ability for data center manag-ers to pay as they go. “We’ve been developing for energy savings for quite some time with high-effi ciency cooling systems and UPS,” he says. “For example, row- or rack-based cooling systems are now available for provid-ing premium localized cooling for higher-density applications while lower-energy room-based cooling is maintained for low-density applications.”

Eliminating unmanaged change is another opportunity that data center managers can implement today. “Because data centers are complex and integral to business, fear reigns supreme,” says Cottuli. “When new equip-ment is brought online, old hardware is often left in place. Data center personnel get used to walking by the unused equipment, and eventually they refuse to touch it for fear that it still supports something or may be needed. Managed change allows you to deploy the right equipment in the right locations and discontinue using old equipment on a schedule.”

According to Cottuli, unmanaged change can also lead to strandedcapacity. “In a 5,000 square-foot data center with 1,000 square feet of premium cooling for high-density equipment, unmanaged change can cause someone to install low-density equipment in that premium space,” he explains. “Now, you don’t have room for additional high-density equip-ment, and you’re not optimizing your cooling or energy use.”—BZ

Energy-saving practices to deploy today

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by a separate facility.“We believe it’s vital for data center managers to see and

understand their utility bill, and that is starting to happen,” says Cottuli. “As data center managers are barred from roll-ing out high-density computing due to the impact on power and cooling, and as consolidation and server virtualization is adopted, we’re seeing a need for the two entities to come together. In 2008, new eff orts surrounding green initiatives and improved operational expense will put these two groups at the same table.”

Reliability and uptime have always been the utmost con-cern among data center managers, resulting in the use ofredundant energy loads and reluctance to adopt new (perhaps unproven) technologies. Th e key is to ensure that redundancyis achieved in the most effi cient way possible while educating the industry about potential energy-saving technologies and practices that do not impact reliability.

“Th ere’s always been the fallacy that green eff orts in thedata center mean lower reliability, and it’s simply not true,”says Cottuli. “Operating six cooling units at a higher per-centage of their capability is far more effi cient than running 10 at just 10%. Some believe that shutting down four units will eliminate redundancy. Yes, it’s possible to shut down the wrong four units, but smart implementation of green eff orts not only improves energy effi ciency but reliability as well.”

Th e report includes several noteworthy policy recommen-dations to overcome these barriers, including:• Standardized energy performance measurement; • Private-sector challenge from the federal government to cor-

porate executives; • Data center metering of energy use and consumption;• Energy Star specifi cations for data center products;• Modifi ed federal procurement specifi cations to require

energy-effi cient products;• Financial and tax incentives to encourage adoption;• Demonstrations and awareness campaigns to improve

education.

Starting nowWith help from industry organizations like Th e Green Grid (www.thegreengrid.org), a non-profi t consortium dedi-cated to developing standards and measurement methodsfor data center energy effi cient performance, Cottuli isconfi dent adoption of standards will begin this year.

“In order to determine if you are saving energy, you need to fi rst have a baseline on what your data center is consuming today,” says Cottuli. “Th e industry needs to get behind one measurement standard and then push it. Every technology and recommendation in the EPA report relies on the fact that we know what the energy effi ciency is today and can measure improvements tomorrow.”






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security

You might not fi nd a more-primitive security system than the chain-link fence. Long before the concepts of phishing and network hacking could be fathomed—well before the invention of Ethernet, in fact—these trusted protection devices prevented un-wanted visitors from treading on selected parcels of real estate. Over the years more technologically ad-vanced methods of perimeter protection evolved, in-cluding video surveillance and “seeing eye”-typeintrusion detection, each with its own communica-tions infrastructure, and much of that in-frastructure consisting of wiring.

Yet fences did not go the way of the aba-cus or typewriter in the face of emerging technology. Th ey are still omnipresent as protection systems. And today, many high-ly sensitive entities are choosing not to re-place their fences with cabled security systems, but rather choosing to add cabling—fi ber-optic cabling in particular—to their ex-isting perimeter security systems to gain the advantages of modern intrusion detection.

Two such systems, the Fiber Defender from Fiber SenSys (www.fi bersensys.com) and Fiber Fence from Fiber Instrument Sales (FIS; www.fi ber-fence.com), turn optical fi ber’s bend sensi-tivity into a primary security asset.

Fiber’s bend sensitivity“Th e optical fi ber is used as the sensing element,”explains Fiber SenSys’ Joshua Gardner. “Th ere is a unique phenomenon that occurs in multimode optical fi ber, called intermodal mixing. Any movement of the optical fi ber, even microscopic movements such as vibrations,changes the way that light is propagated down the core of the fi ber. Any movement of the optical fi ber causes a

change in what is called the speckle pattern. Our detec-tor registers a change in the speckle pattern.

“We employ a sophisticated digital-signal processor [DSP] that runs many algorithms to determine if a sig-nal is an intruder or environmental background noise, such as wind. Th ere are several calibration parameters

that tune the DSP to respond correctly to the sensor’s unique application.”

Fiber Defender is used in sev-eral applications, Gardner states, including chain-link fences, wrought-iron fences, and wall-tops. It can also be buried in gravel. “Our SecurLAN application employs an opti-cal-fi ber sensor cable inside of data conduit to detect cable tampering or tapping. A new application is our FiberMat sensor that is used in the track bed of light rail and subway stations to detect unauthorized access or the deposit of small packages.”

FIS’ Fiber Fence activates alarms and shows ➤

Fiber-optic technology updates old-fashioned security

Systems that employ optical circuits to detect intrusion are finding deployment in highly sensitive applications.

PATRICK MCLAUGHLIN is chief editor of Cabling Installation & Maintenance.

A traditional fence like this one can become a more-modern security system when it teams up with a fi ber-optic security system for intrusion detection.





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breach locations using optical technology and mechanicaldevices called MouseTrips. Th e devices are installed atintervals around a perimeter and detect movement of the sensing fi ber or disturbance of the fence to which it isattached. Its laser-based control unit injects light into the fi ber-optic cable, and the MouseTrip sensors are triggered by any cuts to or tugs on the cable. When triggered, the MouseTrip reduceslight fl ow through the circuit, which the control unit detects.

“FiberFence is designed to beimplemented on an existing fence line, and to go around walls and gates,” says FIS’ William Batchelor, trainer and product manager for security products. “Our FiberFence includes non-electrical me-chanical sensors—the MouseTrips—that are spaced every-so-many-feet apart from one another. Fiber-optic sensing cable is run through the MouseTrips. A spring-loaded plunger insidethe MouseTrip is triggered when anybody disturbs the fence bytugging, climbing, or cutting. Th e plunger trip creates amicrobend in the fi ber, which creates loss of light.”

Batchelor continues, “Th e system’s control unit is constantly searching for a range of light being sent from the control unit, traveling around the system, and arriving back at the control unit. If there is a loss, an alarm is activated.”

Th e second phase of FiberFence’s operation, Batchelorexplains, is the activation of an optical time-domain refl ec-tometer (OTDR), which traces the fi ber and locates the point of loss. Th e loss point fl ashes on a screen, alerting personnelof the location of the intrusion. FiberFence can tie intoother security systems, including video-surveillancecameras, which can zoom in on the intrusion location.

Th e system has been deployed in military facilities, nuclear-power facilities, factories, storage yards, chemical plants, and hazardous-waste facilities.

Unique characteristicsAs fi ber-based “bolt-on”-type systems, these product lines dif-fer from more-traditional intrusion-detection systems in sev-eral ways. “Many intrusion-detection systems use a copper cable to achieve their function,” says Fiber SenSys’ Gardner.

“Examples of these would be leaky coax and piezoelectric sen-sors. Any sensor that uses copper cable will have a weakness to electromagnetic interference, radio-frequency interference, and lightning. Th e presence of metal or standing water in a leaky coax system will create detection problems.”

Gardner adds, “Some other intrusion-detection systems use microwave, passive infrared, or beam sensors. Th ese systems typically get a lot of nuisance alarms in heavy wind, rain, or snow. Fiber-optic sensors employ only silicon glass around the

perimeter, which is not susceptible to EMI, RFI, or lightning. It is not conductive to electricity and will not spark or arc. Th at makes it an ideal medium in facilities. such as electrical switch yards, chemical storage, and explosive-material storage.”

Gardner adds that Fiber SenSys systems have been success-fully deployed in military/Department of Defense facilities

and with DoD contractors. Other verticals that have taken to the system include petrochem, corrections, airports, execu-tive residences, and transportation markets.

FIS’ Batchelor similarly lauds the benefi ts of Fiber Fence:“Fiber-optic cable cannot be breached without detection,” which is frequently cited as a reason fi ber-based LAN structuredcabling systems are considered more secure than copper-based systems. Th at breach-detection ability is the verybasis of the Fiber Fence and Fiber Defender perimeter-secu-rity systems.

Optical familiarityBecause Fiber Fence and Fiber SenSys use optical tech-nology and include cable as a primary element, installers of these systems should have cable-installation experience as well as knowledge of fi ber theory and fi ber-cabling performance.

“Optical termination is required,” Gardner notes. “A goodunderstanding of the tuning and calibration of the FiberDefender is needed to ensure reliable and accurate intru-sion detection.” Fiber SenSys off ers a training class at itsHillsboro, OR headquarters that covers all elements needed to install and maintain the system’s equipment.

FIS’ Batchelor agrees that background in fi ber-opticinstallation is helpful: “Mounting the MouseTrips requiresjust two screws, so that is not an issue. But when it comes toinstalling around a gate, the sensing fi ber runs to a splicebox, then runs over the gate to another splice box on theother side. Having knowledge of fi ber optics and the ability fusion splice is helpful.”

Fiber Instrument Sales off ers hands-on live training with its distributor and installation-contractor customers. FIS per-sonnel accompany new customers on initial installations, en-suring they achieve a comfort level with the system. Batchelor off ers a case-in-point about two of Fiber Fence’s earliest in-stallers. One was an electrical-contracting company that had little fi ber-optic installation experience; the other was a

Intrusion-detection systems that use microwave, passive

infrared, or beam sensors typically get a lot of nuisance

alarms in heavy wind, rain, or snow. Any sensor that uses

copper cable will be susceptible to EMI/RFI and lightning.











contracting company that handled fi ber-optic installations exclusively. Both be-came certifi ed installers of Fiber Fence with relative ease, he says, aft er just a few training classes.

Fiber Defender and Fiber Fence some-times compete head-to-head, and other

times. one system is recognizably more appropriate for an environment than the other. In a nutshell, Fiber Fence is off ered at a lower price point and pro-vides shorter distance capabilities than Fiber Defender.

While those two systems from U.S.-based organizations have served fenceline security needs for years, the Australian company Future Fibre Tech-nologies (FFT; www.fft .com/au) pro-vides a similar, optical, fence-based system that has been deployed world-wide, including North America Th e company recently opened a European headquarters and, before that, expanded its existing U.S. presence when it opened an East Coast offi ce.

FFT says its Secure Fence system can protect systems as long as 50 miles inperimeter, and locate intrusions to 25 yards. Th e company lists the U.S.Navy and Army, and the Depart-ment of Homeland Security among itsclientele.

Despite their diff erences, these three systems are similar in that they have turned optical fi ber’s bend sensitivity into an advantage in the realm of secu-rity and safety.

Despite their differences,

these systems are similar

in that they have turned

optical fi ber’s bend sensi-

tivity into an advantage in

the realm of security and

safety.





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Compiled by Steve Smith

www.cable-install.com Cabling Installation & Maintenance ■ February 2008 ■ 39

A new division and a new pro-gram have been launched by two

cabling industry leaders in recentweeks, both aimed at enhancing market presence and customer service.

Structured cabling solutionsprovider Ortronics/Legrand (www.ortronics.com) has created the Legrand North America Commercial Data Com-munications Division, which will en-compass the company’s sales team and the four product sets available through the data communications channel from parent company Legrand North Amer-ica. Products included are Ortronics structured cabling solutions, Wiremold pathways, Cablofi l wire mesh cable tray, and On-Q home systems.

“We believe we can best serve our cus-tomers by providing complete network infrastructure solutions through a sin-gle point of contact,” says Mark Panico,president of Ortronics/Legrand.

Th e company says formation of the new sales division will result in increased collaboration for product development, sales, and marketing eff orts.

Meanwhile, CommScope Enterprise Solutions, a division of network infra-structure provider CommScope(www.commscope.com), has launched an updated BusinessParter program with enhancements designed forglobal consistency and meeting cus-tomer requirements worldwide. Believ-ing that selecting the right solution is only part of a customer’s decision,CommScope is focusing on qualifi edinstallers by recognizing those that demonstrate what it calls “industry leading levels of skill, knowledge, and technical expertise.”

CommScope says it has structured its updated program to off er three levelsof partners—authorized, prestige, and

elite—based on type of service off er-ings, skills, and expertise in installing the company’s portfolio of solutions. Th e new structure is designed to pro-

vide customers with a clearer view of diff erent levels of installation expertise and options targeted to meet their spe-cifi c needs and requirements.

“Our BusinessPartners and the cus-tomers they serve are inextricably linked,” says Angela Haneklau, vice pres-

ident of sales, North American region/Comm-Scope Enterprise Solutions. “Th eenhancements to our global Business-Partner program help ensure customers

receive superior and consistent levels of service and support worldwide.”

CommScope Enterprise Solutions specializes in network infrastructure solutions, including SYSTIMAX and Uniprise product lines, for all sizes of enterprise companies.

Ortronics, CommScope boost customer service

The new structure is designed to provide

customers with a clearer view of different levels

of installation expertise and options targeted to

meet their specifi c needs and requirements.

Kirk Horlbeck, senior vice presi-dent for corporate marketing and

international business development at audio/video cabling provider Liberty Wire & Cable (libertycable.com), has been chosen chairman of the Manufac-turers Council of trade association Info-Comm International.

Th e Council is one of nine within Info-Comm, and develops projects and initia-tives to help improve the manufacturing community and audio/visual industry. It serves members in issues related to com-munications technologies, and shares insights and information about manu-facturing audio, video, and telecommu-nications products.

Horlbeck, whose experience spans more than 25 years of marketing and sales management, previously served as

a professional management consultant developing marketing and sales initia-tives for several corporate clients.

“Th e Council plays a critical role to the manufacturers and other sectors of

I n f o C o m m ’ s growing audio/visual communi-ty, and I look for-ward to working with its members,” Horlbeck says.

InfoComm In-ternational is founder of Info-

Comm, the largest annual conference and exhibition for audio/visual buyers and sellers worldwide, and co-sponsors of Integrated Systems events in Europe, Russia, China, and Asia.

Liberty senior VP to leadInfoComm Manufacturers Council

Kirk Horlbeck





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TAMPA, FL—BICSI’s (www.bicsi.org) seventh president, Irving “Jim” Alexander, passed away recently at the age of 82. He is remembered by BICSI members and telecommunications professionals as the driving force behind the establishment of the Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD) program. “Very few people believed that BICSI could sustain the 1984 break-up that ended the Bell System of affi liated telephone companies,” says Dunn Harvey, RCDD, BICSI past president (1988). “Yet through Jim’s leadership, the organization held strong and maintained positive relations with those newly separated companies.”

NORCROSS, GA—Optical-fi ber solutions provider OFS (www.ofsoptics.com) has introduced EZ-Bend optical cable technology to support multiple dwelling unit (MDU) and in-home wiring installations. The company says the technology addresses the need to speed and simplify installations by allowing cables to be bent and routed in ways previously not feasible with traditional optical drop cables. EZ-Bend is designed to enable in-residence fi ber installation with the same practices used for copper and coaxial cables. Cables using EZ-Bend technology can be stapled in place with copper cable installation tools, and routed around sharp corners. OFS says the bend loss performance represents up to a 100x improvement over conventional singlemode fi ber cables, and will enable negligible video signal loss (0.1 dB) for one turn at 5-mm radius.

CLEVELAND, OH—Lubrizol Advanced Materials Inc. (www.lubrizol.com) says it has added Metacaulk Cast-in-Place fi restop devices and pipe collars to its FGG/BM/CZ System Compatible Program, which is designed to test and monitor ancillary products to ensure chemical compatibility with three different CPVC piping systems. Metacaulk Cast-In-Place fi restop devices are designed for use in poured concrete fl oors to form a through-penetration fi restop system, and provide a fi restopped opening that allows for a variety of materials—plastic, metal, and insulated pipes, as well as cable and wire bundles—to pass through. Products in the FGG/BM/CZ program display the System Compatible mark on their label, assuring installers that the products are chemically compatible with CPVC products.

TOKYO—Telecommunications professional association BICSI (www.bicsi.org) has established its second affi liate agreement with the Japan district, recognizing that BICSI Japan has met qualifying criteria to be a self-supporting not-for-profi t organization. Operating from Tokyo, BICSI Japan is led by manager Kazuo Kato, who serves more than 280 members. Under the affi liation agreement, BICSI Japan can make decisions that meet the needs of the local membership. “The need to localize BICSI and put its ownership and success into the members’ hands in increasingly important in the global marketplace,” says BICSI president John Bakowski, RCDD.

Short runs…

With intentions of broadening its position in the voice, data and

video industry, Textron Inc.’s Greenlee (www.greenlee.com) business unit has acquired telecom toolmaker Paladin Tools. Greenlee develops communica-tions installation tools, tone generators, telephone test sets, network certifi ca-tion instruments, and fi ber-optic test equipment.

In addition to providing Greenlee with a complementary brand portfo-lio and expanded product line, the Pal-adin acquisition “gives Greenlee access to additional distribution channels in the voice, data, and video industry that will broaden our customer base for com-munications wiring tools,” says Green-lee president Scott Hall.

“Paladin is a strong force in the in-

dustry and will be a welcome addition to Greenlee’s hole making and hand tools value stream,” adds Martha Kness,division vice president and general man-ager. “As growth within this industry is expected to continue over the next few years, driven by favorable trends in the cable, network, and communications equipment fi eld, we look forward to a unifi ed strategy for meeting our cus-tomers’ needs.”

Headquartered in Oilville, VA, Pala-din has experienced steady growth since its founding in 1977. Its brand names include Paladin Tools, DataShark, and PowerPlay; the product line includes a variety of cutters, strippers, punch-down tools, crimpers, multi-tools, testers, kits, and other communications-related hand tools.

Textron/Greenlee acquires Paladin Tools

Before the shuttle Atlantis was sched-uled to lift off in late January, NASA

engineers were trying to determine what has been causing an ongoing faulty con-nector/cable system—one that forced the scrub of Atlantis’ launch last December.

According to a recent story in the Huntsville (AL) Times, an engine cutoff sensor that is part of a system that mon-itors fuel fl ow and mixtures reportedly gave a false reading before the scheduled Dec. 6, 2007 lift -off .

Since then, a connector that joins a monitoring cable from the tank sen-sor to the computers on Atlantis have been undergoing cold testing, and NASAengineers believe the problem’s cause

NASA probes faulty shuttle connector





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The Lynx CustomFit splice-on con-nector, recently developed by

Sumitomo Electric Lightwave (www.sumitomoelectric.com) is designed with pre-terminated jumpers and

mechanical splices, and enables custom-ized premises/outside plant terminations of singlemode and multimode fi bers with typical insertion loss of 0.20 dB.

Th e connector’s termination method,

says the company, eliminates having to guess the length of pre-terminated jumpers required for a given application. Technicians can customize the termina-tion on-site quickly and accurately.

Unlike mechanical splicing methods, the Lynx is designed for fast and perma-nent splicing without the need for adhe-sives. By using fusion splicing methods, Sumitomo Electric says, splice loss im-proves from 0.1 dB, compared to mechan-ical splicing with 0.3 dB. Th e connector is also compatible with the company’s handheld TomCat splicer line, which fea-tures new optical technology for either itssingle or dual-camera splice loss estima-tion, and a typical splice of less than 11 sec-onds (see Product Focus, page 46).

Sumitomo unveils pre-terminated splice-on connector

Sumitomo Electric Lightwave says faster termination and improved splice loss are among the benefi ts of its newly released Lynx CustomFit splice-on connector.

may be related to extremely cold liquid hydrogen fuel.

“We haven’t ruled anything out; it could be age related, or it could be something

in the manufacturing process,” propul-sion and electrical lead engineer Chad Bryant told the Times. He added that the same type of part has been causing trou-bles since the 2005 return-to-fl ight mis-sion aft er the Columbia tragedy.

“Th is is a very harsh environment the connector has to withstand,” Bryanttold the Times. “On the liquid hydrogen

side of the tank, it is exposed to super cold conditions, and then, just a few inches away, it is exposed to the natural weather conditions of the launch pad. It has a lot to go through.”

NASA engineers reportedly planned to bypass the connector for last Febru-ary’s launch, instead soldering the cable into a new connector.

A faulty connector/cable system affecting the launch of the shuttle Atlantis has been undergoing tests by NASA to study the impact of harsh environment and age factors. (Photo: NASA fi le)

Market analysis firm CIR (www.cir-inc.com) expects to

release new research early this yearabout opportunities in the emerging100-Gbits/sec market.

Th e study, “Th e Path to 100 Gbps Net-works,” will give special attention to the implications of the key standards-mak-ing eff orts at the IEEE, and predict what the likely commercial implications will be. According to CIR, the report will discuss how the emerging standards for the next wave of high-speed network-

ing will both fi t in with and replace older standards, such as Fibre Chan-nel, Infi niBand, and SONET. It willalso explain and quantify the demand for 100-Gbits/sec speeds, covering the needs of large data centers, high-perfor-mance computing applications, service providers, and carriers.

Th e report is expected to contain cur-rent profi les of the latest research and development as well as product devel-opment activity of leading component vendors.

Forthcoming report to assess 100-Gbit/sec opportunities





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Buyers are visiting www.cablinginstall.com to:

■ Research products

■ View the latest news and information

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For more information on

digital media advertising,

contact Ed Murphy

at 603-891-9260 or

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Comprehensive cabling information just a mouseclick away!At www.cablinginstall.com, you can gain access to a whole world of information about cabling standards, technologies, and products. From expert-written white papers, to Webcasts on demand, to topic-focused resource areas, our website is a one-stop shop for your cabling information needs.

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A




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New Products Compiled by Steve Smith


Secure/keyed LC modulesFiberExpress Secure/Keyed LC connec-tors now include higher density mod-ules, preterminated MPO-keyed LC fi ber modules and keystone modules, and six additional color-coded options. De-signed for network security requirements,

this system is based on the LC technologysmall-form-factor format designed to ensure high performance andreliability for equipment running appli-cations at 1 Gbit/sec or greater. Th e sys-tem also allows for physical segregation of network segments, meaning that dif-ferent levels of security can be designed into the system for individual users.Color-coded keying detail inside the components is tamper-resistant and can-not be reproduced inside a standard LC adapter. All modules are keyed on the front and back to prevent installationerrors or security breaches.

BELDEN

www.belden.com

Redesigned Category 6Improvements in design and manufac-turing of the LANmark-1000 Catego-ry 6 UTP cable have, according to the company, increased all crosstalk param-eters by 4 dB over the previous design that was already exceeding TIA/EIA-568-B.2-1 component performance. In addi-tion, an 85% improvement in PSACRenhances signal integrity and strength, reducing vulnerability to noise inter-

ference. According to the company, the redesign has not aff ected the outsidediameter (.226 inches) or price.

BERK-TEK

www.berktek.com

Cabling guideTh e 44-page Guide to Structured Cabling provides an overview of the standards and practices that govern the planning, installation, and testing of structured

cabling systems. Also included are relat-ed standards covering administration, harsh environments, data centers, Pow-er over Ethernet, and wireless networks.

BLACK BOX

www.blackbox.com

Textured-surface labelsTh e HD polyester range of labels feature a heavy-duty adhesive designed for a fast

and permanent bond to both smooth and textured surfaces. Labels are made to withstand abrasion, oils, chemicals, sol-vents, and temperature ranges of ww-45° to 155° C. Th ey are especially suited forapplying to textured powder-coatsurfaces, galvanized steel, and castaluminum.

CILS INTERNATIONAL

www.cils-international.com

Pre-terminated fi ber systemTh e Plug & Play AnyLAN system features a pre-installed multimode or singlemode optical cable with network access points

at customer-specifi ed intervals, and a tethered, environmentally hardened MT connector. Once distance measure-ments for network access point locations are known, the system is manufactured and tested, then packaged and shipped on a cable reel for immediate deployment in indoor or outdoor applications. Any-LAN for inside applications is compati-ble with 2-inch duct for riser and factory fl oor environments, while outside plant applications are compatible with buried and aerial installations. According to the company, AnyLAN allows installation to be completed up to 50% faster thantraditional fi eld installations.

CORNING CABLE SYSTEMS

www.corningcablesystems.com

Fiber inspection probeTh e FIP-400 fi ber inspection probe is designed for all types of fi eld network architectures, and enables detection of faults and scratches down to 1 μm. Com-patible with the company’s portfolio of test products, the FIP-400 can also ➤






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New Products


be used with a new lightweight, hand-held viewer featuring a high-brightness

TFT screen that renders sharp images offi ber endfaces.

EXFO

www.exfo.com

Two Cat 6A solutionsTh is Category 6A 10-Gigabit FTP con-nectivity solution off ers 500 MHz of

bandwidth, and exceeds all elec-trica l signal transmission per-formance param-eters and alien crosstalk require-ments of TIA/EIA-568-B.2-10 and ISO 11801. The solution in-cludes a modular connector, 10-Gbit patch panel, and FTP10-Gbit patch cords. Th e connector fea-tures 360° die-cast shielding, designed to provide maximum protection against sig-nal disruptors in a datacom environment. Th is FTP solution is especially suited forgovernment, gaming, manufacturing and fi nancial installations.

A UTP connectivity solution designed for 10-Gbit Ethernet applications in-cludes a 10-Gbit modular connector, patch panel, and selection of rack systems

and cable management products. Th e UTP connector off ers a shielded termi-nation cap, which minimizes additional alien crosstalk from neighboring con-nectors, and features twisted-pair sep-aration posts that minimize untwisting of pairs. Th ese modular connectors arealso backward-compatible with Category 6, 5e, and voice network applications.

ICC

www.icc.com

High-power UPSNine uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) have been added to the com-pany’s Pro, Sine, and Online Seriesfamilies, featuring power capacities ranging from 300 to 3,000 VA. Also in-cluded are systems with more outlets ➤





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Product Focus: fusion, mechanical splicers


OptiSplice One single-fi ber fusion splicer (below) features an intuitive user interface, dual cameras, a fast heat-shrink oven and high-capacity Li-Ion battery in a reduced package, while the OptiSplice Ribbon 1- to 12-fi ber fusion splicer (right) is de-signed to provide improved speed and performance when com-pared to previous generation multi-fi ber splicers. These devices are suited for installations with tight working conditions, and both units are available with modular accessories for use in

FTTx and various LAN applications. A splice area cover serves as a wind protector while rubber bumpers offer protection in harsh environments. High-intensity LEDs provide splicearea illumination when used in low-light installations, and canalso illuminate the interior of a splice closure or other piece of hardware. Factory and user-defi ned programs are available for common and specialty fi ber types, and a USB interfacepermits data output and software upgrades.CORNING CABLE SYSTEMSwww.corningcablesystems.com

SpliceConnect is a mechanical splice featuring V-groove tech-nology designed to maintain physical contact between thefi bers. An assembly tool is used to ensure fi bers are matedcorrectly, resulting in <0.1 dB insertion loss (typical forsinglemode). Splice-Connect secures both fi ber and coating independently with a U-shaped sleeve, enhancing the strength against fi ber twist. Offering 250-and 900-μm fi ber capabili-ties, this mechanical splice is suited for restoration projects,

premise installations, and FTTx applications.

SpliceMate, according to company claims, is the world’s smallest portable fusion splicer. It features Fujikura’s Profi le Alignment System (PAS) technology, providing a dual-camera inspec-tion system designed to ensure reliable splice results by detecting splice or cleave defects. Suitable for use in all en-vironments, SpliceMate includes automated arc calibration that compensates for environmental conditions and elec-trode age, eliminating the need for routine arc calibration. The splicer is equipped with a dual-direction 3.5-inch moni-tor, while an optional workstation is available.AFL TELECOMMUNICATIONSwww.afl tele.com

V-groove mechanical, portable fusion splicers

Handheld single-fi ber, multi-fi ber tools






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Product Focus: fusion, mechanical splicers

The Zeus fusion fi eld termination kit features the company’s “crocodile alberino” fusion ferruleassembly (available in both PC and APC ver-sions), which provides a factory-polished endfaceresulting in low insertion loss and back refl ection, as well as splice protection. The fusion splice is performed and protected within the ferruleassembly, eliminating the need for splice hous-ing, trays, holders, protectors, and fi ber manage-ment. The Zeus fusion splicer offers precision V-groove alignment, pre-splice fi ber cleaning, and pre-programmed parameters for both multimode

and singlemode fi bers. Ferrule assembly closing directly onto the fusion splice elim-inates the need for special tools. Up to 100 splices are possible without having torecharge the battery. Other parts of the fi eld termination kit include the “crocodile alberino” 2.5-mm closing tool and 1.25-mm crimping tool, two connector assemblingpliers, holders for fi ber-to-fi ber splicing,and a precision fi ber cleaver.DIAMOND USAwww.diamond-fo.com

Fiber-to-the-premises fusion kitThis portable fusion splicing kit is designed to fuse 900-μm tight-buffered as well as 250-μm acrylate-coated fi ber in FTTx installa-tions. Specially designed fi ber holders let you cleave and insert the fi bers into the splicer using the same holder, increasing the accu-racy and placement of fi bers while offering protection. The splicer includes a color LCD monitor and CCD camera, designed to pro-duce a clear, magnifi ed image of both fi ber ends simultaneously.An estimated loss readout (typically .05 dB for multimode and .10 dB for singlemode) is shown after a splice occurs. The spliceralso features a button-activated fi xed V-groove alignment sys-tem, and sensitive arc testing features designed to assure

near-perfect core and cladding glass alignment. Also included in the kit are all necessary fi ber preparation tools, 6V DC bat-tery and AC adapter to power theheated buffer stripper, tworechargeable batteries with char-ger and AC adapter, 900- and 250-μm fi ber holders, 6-inchruler, and small parts box. All con-tents are housed in a hard shell

case with removable lid.KITCO FIBER OPTICS

www.kitcofo.com

Optical enhancements tohandheld fusion splicer

The Type-25e TomCat handheld fusion splicer now fea-tures improved optical technology, offering a choice of an economical one-camera system or an indus-try-standard dual-camera splice loss estimation sys-

tem. Combined with a quicker splice protection sleeveheater, TomCat is designed to produce a typical splice time of less than 11 seconds for singlemode or multi-mode fi ber. The unit features an internal battery charger and AC adapter, while improved battery technology lets technicians perform 40 splices on a single charge. Alsoincluded are front-to-back position monitors that letyou observe the fi ber during the splicing process,automatic arc test function, and an improved fi berholder system to increase splice repeatability.SUMITOMO ELECTRIC LIGHTWAVEwww.sumitomoelectric.com

Fusion fi eld termination kit







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Faster Networks Need Better Cleaning. MicroCare Gets It Done.For reliable high-speed networks, fiber optic splices and connectors must be clean. FiberCare™ cleaning supplies from MicroCare will get the job done right. Now with the remarkable Triton™ 3-way dispenser on all three of the FiberCare

solvents. Plus unique lint-free wipes for cleaning jumpers and splices, and cleaning sticks for down in alignment sleeves. For the first time, high-

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Any splice, any connector, any size, any configuration,anywhere, FiberCare gets it done.

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New Products


and a USB interface, remote monitor-ing, and high-density footprints.

LEVITON NETWORK SOLUTIONS

www.leviton.com/networksolutions

Video monitoring systemTh is residential video monitoring sys-tem allows viewing of color output on any home TV or over the Internet. Th e system consists of an indoor and out-door camera that connects through the company’s Structured Media Center (SMC) for monitoring home and exter-nal grounds. It operates over Category

5e UTP cables, which interconnect with a compact camera hub in the SMC. Th e hub provides power to up to fourcameras, and outputs composite video from the cameras to the IP/quad mod-ule or video modulators. Indoor and outdoor camera assemblies along with the camera hub incorporate precision

video baluns designed to ensure clear video output. The outdoor cameraalso includes a separate power supply forapplications where cable runs exceed328 feet, allowing local powering ofcameras at entrance gates or structures located a long distance from the SMC.

LEVITON MANUFACTURING CO.

www.leviton.com

Fiber-to-fi ber converterTh e MC-300-SC-MM/SM is a multi-mode-to-singlemode fi ber converter for 100Base-FX. Off ering a variety of cable confi gurations to meet bandwidth and

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New Products


cable distance requirements, the MC-300 also enables Ethernet LAN and WAN connectivity by providing a multimode interface to singlemode fi ber carrierdemarcation points. A limited lifetime performance warranty is included.

LYNN ELECTRONICS/TECOPTIX

www.lynnelec.com

Numbered rack systemNumbered rack rails are available for the company’s RLA Series of aluminum2-post frame racks, designed to allow

simplifi ed equipment alignment andfaster installation. Racks are EIA/TIA-compliant, available in 45U and 51U versions, and feature 15-inch-deep bases constructed of quarter-inch thick alumi-num. Pre-cut holes and screws are pro-vided for secure fl oor mounting.

MIDDLE ATLANTIC PRODUCTS

www.middleatlantic.com

4-post rack systemTh is 23-inch 4-post rack system fi ts with-in a 24 x 24-inch fl oor tile, combining the stability of a cabinet with the acces-sibility of an open rack for greater design fl exibility. Th e rack’s cable management solution is designed to enhance network

scalability and manageability. Indepen-dent adjustable front- and rear-mounting rails accept a variety of active equipment. Paint-piercing washers electrically bond the rack components.

PANDUIT

www.panduit.com

Intelligent PHY scannerTh e PanView Local Scanner is a 1U de-vice that monitors and manages physi-cal (PHY) connectivity information of a remote network, and reports the infor-

mation to a centralized PanView System server. Designed as a solution for satellite locations, the Local Scanner supports up to 144 ports, and contains built-in con-trol buttons for simplifi ed on-site patch cord tracing. As part of the PanView Sys-tem, the Local Scanner is designed toextend physical layer visibility to remote sites that were previously unmanaged.

PANDUIT

www.panduit.com

Self-propelled plowThe BRON 150 crawler with offset-ting vibratory plows is designed for in-stalling fi ber and copper cable, conduit, and pipe at a working depth of up to 60inches. Vibratory plows are ideal forinstallations where tractive power is limited, and can be used as a static plow when ground conditions permit. Among its features are blade height-adjustment cylinders designed to maintain plow-

ing integrity in extreme conditions, aCAT 210 horsepower engine with hydro-static 2-speed automatic/variable speed track drive, and 8,000-pound standardlift capacity reel carrier.

RWF INDUSTRIES

www.rwfbron.com

Day/night security cameraTh e SIR-4150N high-resolution Day/Night IR LED bullet camera features 520 TVL color and 570 TVL black-and-white. With an IP65 weather rating, the camera is suitable for indoor or outdoor securityinstallations. An ICR fi lter provides day/night switchover, and with sensitiv-ity of 0.3 Lux @ F1.2 color, 0.002 black and white, and 0 Lux with IR LEDs, the

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The Cabling Installation & Maintenance

Video Library

The fi rst segments in the Cabling Installation & Maintenance Video Library were shot at the BICSI Winter Conference in mid-January. We sat down with leaders from the TIA TR-42 Engineering Committee to get the latest information on cabling-standard developments. We also fi lmed BICSI-specifi c information, including the offi cial introduction of Ed Donelan as BICSI’s new president, as well as comments from BICSI’s past president, John Bakowski.

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New Products


bulletin boards

privacy masking, and RS-485 control are provided.

SAMSUNG

www.samsung360.com

Cat 6A connecting blocksTh e company’s S210 connecting block line is now included as a consolidation point option in a warranted 10-Gbit Category 6A UTP end-to-end cabling system. In addition to optimized connecting block spacing and internal pair shielding for

10-Gbit/sec performance, the S210 sys-tem features a patented rear thru-hole design that allows horizontal cables to be routed through the rear of the blockdirectly to the point of termination. Ter-minations are made by the proprietary Pyramid wire entry system, which sep-

arates paired conductors when lacingcables to simplify and reduce installa-tion time. S210 connecting block kits are available in 64-, 128-, and 192-pair con-fi gurations, and with patented removable stand-off mounting legs or 19-inch panel-mount for use in racks and cabinets.

SIEMON

www.siemon.com

Bus bar connectorDesigned for high-current telecom appli-cations, Rapid Lock bus bar connectors are single-pole, quick connect/discon-nect replacements for lug connections that allow for a reliable and safe connec-tion and better serviceability than bolt-fi tted lugs. Th e connectors free the power

distribution system from the risk of loose connections, which can cause arching or fi re. A locking feature is provided on the pins for protection against accidentalunlatching of the cable.

TYCO ELECTRONICS

www.tycoelectronics.com

Tone-traceable patch cordTh e SureTracer family of electronicallytone-traceable duplex fiber-opticcable and patch cords can be traced in a non-invasive fashion, even while carry-ing traffi c and connected to active trans-mission equipment. It is available in the smallest form-factor duplex cable, and is compatible with both the company’sfi ber-optic patch panels and industry-standard models. By attaching a low-force conducting cable clip at any point along the cable span and attaching a stan-dard electronic tone generator, this com-posite fi ber-optic cable can be identifi ed and traced by using an electronic tone detector probe. Passing the probe in the

vicinity of the cable produces an audible tone; by design, the clip does not pene-trate the cable jacket or degrade the phys-ical integrity of the cable.

TELESCENT

www.telescent.com

Raised fl oor sealsRe-engineered for greater modularity, KoldLok extended raised fl oor grommets can seal raised-fl oor tiles that measure either 24 inches or 600 mm long. Grom-mets are 3 inches/76 mm and 6 inches/152 mm, and feature a new screw-hole design on the end caps and fl ange that

allow more fi laments to be exposed for improved sealing eff ectiveness. Kold-Lok also incorporates a PC/ABS plastic end cap, and the fl ange width has beenreduced from 3 inches to 2 inches.

UPSITE TECHNOLOGIES

www.upsitetechnologies.com

Angled quad adapterThe MTP angled quad adapter isdesigned to provide strain relief for





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www.textender.com800-432-2638

Extend T1/E1 over:

Data Comm for Business, Inc.

WireUp to Several Miles

of 2-pair Wire

FiberMiles of Fiber

EthernetIP/Ethernet


New Products

hot

prod

uctscompact, high-density MTP connector installations, such

as data centers and equipment faceplates. Th e adapter, which passed durability testing for 500 matings for each connection, is built to improve cable assembly strain relief by routing the installed connection at a 30° angle relative to the 0° positioning of traditional straight-through adapters. It accepts up to four mated MTP connectors in a compact footprint. Each adapter is shipped with four dust plugs.

US CONEC LTD

www.usconec.com

450/700 MHz WiMAX solutionProviding Internet, voice and multimedia services over a wireless broadband link to remote users, this WiMAX 450/700 MHz solution can be customized for any specifi ed band within the 400 MHz and 1 GHz range. Th e system off ers high-speed services while supporting diff erent bandwidths, and is suited for rural areas since it requires approximately 18x less infrastructure per square-mile coverage. Th e com-pany claims the WiMAX solution is the fi rst of its kind in this band range, and “is potentially the most importantenabler for wireless Internet on a country-wide basis.”

TELSIMA

www.telsima.com





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The index of Advertiser’s is published as a service. The publisher does not assume any liability for errors or omissions.

Chief Editor / Patrick McLaughlin(603) 891-9222 • [email protected]

Executive Editor / Steve Smith(603) 891-9139 • [email protected]

Senior Editor / Matt Vincent(603) 891-9262 • [email protected]

Circulation Manager / Michelle Blake(603) 891-9360 • [email protected]

Art Director / Kelli Mylchreest

Lead Illustrator / Dan Rodd

Senior Vice President/Group Publishing DirectorMark Finkelstein(603) 891-9133 • [email protected]

Associate Publisher/National Sales ManagerEd Murphy(603) 891-9260 • [email protected]

CABLING INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE EXECUTIVE AND EDITORIAL OFFICES

PennWell ATD98 Spit Brook RoadNashua, NH 03062-5737Tel: (603) 891-0123, fax: (603) 891-9245Internet: www.cablinginstall.com

SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES:For subscriptions or to change your format to print or digital, please go to: www.cim-subscribe.com. Subscriptions outside the USA are available in digital format only.

CORPORATE OFFICERS

Chairman / Frank T. Lauinger

President and Chief Executive Offi cer / Robert F. Biolchini

Chief Financial Offi cer / Mark C. Wilmoth

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY DIVISION

Senior Executive AssistantCarol WoodwardTel: (603) 891-9112, fax: (603) 891-9287 [email protected]

VP Audience Development / Gloria S. Adams

ATD PUBLISHING SERVICES DEPARTMENTS

Art Director / Meg Fuschetti

Production Director / Mari Rodriguez(603) 891-9193 • [email protected]

Marketing Communication Manager / Kristen Jones(603) 891-9425 • [email protected]

Ad Traffi c Manager / Jackie Linker(918) 832-9314 • [email protected]

PRINTED IN THE USA GST NO. 126813153

Publications Mail Agreement Number 40052420


Senior Vice President/Group Publishing DirectorChristine ShawTel: (603) 891-9178; fax: (603) [email protected]

Associate Publisher/National Sales ManagerEd MurphyPennWell Technology Group98 Spit Brook RoadNashua, NH 03062-5737 Tel: (603) 891-9260; fax: (603) [email protected]

Digital Media Account ManagerMaureen ChristensonTel: (603) [email protected]

Reprint SalesDiane TroyerTel: (603) 891-9385; fax: (603) 891-9245 [email protected]

List Rental / Bob Dromgoole(603) 891-9128 • [email protected]

INTERNATIONAL SALES Australia/New Zealand / Glenn ClarkeFax: +61 3 9 568 [email protected]

France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Andora, Greece, Spain, Portugal, Western Switzerland / Luis MatutanoTel: +33 1 39 66 16 87; fax: +33 1 39 23 84 [email protected]

Austria, Eastern Europe,Germany, Northern Switzerland / Holger GerischTel: +49 8801-302430; fax: +49 8801 [email protected]

India / Rajan SharmaTel: +91 11 686 1113; fax: +91 11 686 [email protected]

Israel / Dan AronovicTel: +972 9 899 [email protected]

Italy / Vittorio Rossi PrudenteTel: +39 0 49 87 87 584; fax: +39 0 49 66 04 [email protected]

Russia / Anton AntoniukTel: +7 095 234 5678; fax: +7 095 234 [email protected]

U.K. & Scandinavia / Amanda LoftusTel: +44 0 1793 862111; fax: +44 0 1793 [email protected]

Asia Sales Manager / Adonis MakTel: +852 2 838 6298; fax: +852 2 838 [email protected]

Japan / Manami KonishiTel: +81 3 5771 8886; fax: +81 3 5771 [email protected]

Korea / Paek KwonTel: +82 2 420 1293 or 1213; fax: +82 2 420 [email protected]

Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, ThailandGrace LeungTel: +65 6 836 2272; fax: +65 6 735 [email protected]

Taiwan / Anita ChenTel: +886 2 8751 5162; fax: +886 2 8751 [email protected]

INDEX OF ADVERTISERSCOMPANY PAGE PHONE WEB

ADC 15 800-366-9891 www.adc.com

Arlington Industries Inc. 29 800-233-4717 www.arlnew.com

Belden/CDT C3 800-BELDEN-1 www.belden.com

Berk-Tek 33 800-BERK-TEK www.berktek.com

Brother International Corp. 19 www.brother.com

Byte Brothers 44 800-999-2983 www.bytebrothers.com

Commscope 8 www.commscope.com

Cooper B Line 12 800-851-7415 www.cooperbline.com

Corning Cable Systems C2 800-743-2671 www.corning.com/cablesystems

Datacom For Business 51 800-432-2638 www.textender.com

Diamond Ground Products 51 805-493-3837 www.diamondground.com

Diamond SA 25 978-256-6544 www.diamond-fo.com

Dymo 11 www.rhinolabeling.com

Fluke Inc. 1 www.fl ukenetworks.com/seehow

Graybar Electric Company, Inc. 5 800-GRAYBAR www.graybar.com

Hellerman Tyton 26 800-822-4352 www.hellerman.tyton.com/cm1

Hyperline Systems Canada 23 866-63-HYPER www.hyperlinesystems.com

JDSU 20 805-383-1500 www.jdsu.com

Leviton Telcom 31 800-922-6229 www.levitonvoicedata.com

Live Wire & Cable 50 888-897-6008 www.live w-com

Liverage Technology Inc. 17 886-3-552-5268 www.liverage.com.tw

Micro Care Corp. 47 860-638-0125 www.MicroCare.com

Optical Cable Corp. 2 800-622-7711 www.occfi ber.com

Paladin Tools 18 800-272-8665 www.paladin-tools.com

Panduit Corp. C4 800-777-3300 www.panduit.com

Pulizzi Engineering Inc. 32 877-785-4994 www.pulizzi.com/ePDU

Quicktron 16 800-361-0471 www.quicktron.com

Seikoh Giken USA Inc. 51 800-274-8335 www.FurukawaAmerica.com

Server Technology 24 800-835-1515 www.servertech.com

Siemon Company 34 800-308-6788 www.siemon.com

Snake Tray 37 800-308-6788 www.snaketray.com

Transition Networks, Inc. 38 800-526-9267 www.transition.com

Upsite Technologies, Inc. 6-7 505-982-7800 www.upsitetechnologies.com











Get Peace of Mind withBelden® Fiber Solutions

Belden has been involved in the develop-ment of optical fiber components since1972—evolving to its present status as aninternational supplier of high quality, cost-effective optical fiber cabling systems.

The Belden FiberExpress® Solution is theculmination of the company’s experiencein the optical fiber arena, offering users a complete, high-performance, end-to-end cabling system that supports both centralized and fiber-to-the-desk (FTTD)topologies, as well as in-building or campus backbone cabling configurations.

The Belden FiberExpress Solution is, however, much more than an assemblageof top-performing products. It represents a whole new approach to the methodologyof optical fiber cabling, i.e., FiberExpresssystems are unique in their ability to offerboth superior performance and a morecost effective, faster and less complexinstallation process than traditional optical fiber cabling systems.

Belden developed the FiberExpressSolution to assure the smooth operation of your network and to provide for efficient network management—whilecontinually reducing your total cost ofownership and preparing your system for the future.

For more information on fiber solutions from Belden call 1.800.BELDEN.1

www.belden.com

©2007, Belden Inc.

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PANDUIT ® OPTICAM ® Pre-Polished Fiber OpticConnectors provide fast and consistent terminations with yield rates approaching 100%.OPTICAM ® Connectors continue to provide installers with a quick, high-yieldpre-polished fiber optic connector solution. New composite ferrules offer an option for behind the wall, fiber to the zone, and panel installations. Allinnovative, patented OPTICAM ® Connectors utilize the same universal tool toachieve the highest yield rates and optimum performance. Experience faster,more consistent terminations and reduced installation costs by usingOPTICAM ® Connectors.

All LC, SC, and ST OPTICAM ® Connectors offer the following benefits:

■ Higher yield rates reduce scrap and lower costs

■ Patented dual cam design effectively eliminates crimping

■ Re-termination capability ensures consistent termination

■ 100% factory pre-tested assures high performance

■ Easy-to-use universal tool virtually eliminates operator error

Together these features deliver higher yield rates for lower installed costs.OPTICAM ® Connectors are available in singlemode or multimode (10GIG™, 50μm, 62.5μm) types, in simplex or duplex variations, and with zirconia ceramic or new composite ferrules (SC and ST, 50μm and 62.5μm)as part of the complete range of fiber optic connectivity solutions availablefrom PANDUIT.

PANDUIT is a Technology Developer Partner for Storage Networking Hardware.

Visit us at www.panduit.com/opt28Contact Customer Service by email: [email protected] by phone: 800-777-3300 and reference ad # opt28

PANDUIT is a Global LeaderProviding Innovative End-To-EndNetwork Connectivity Solutionsthat Enable the Deployment of Technology.

■ Fiber Cabling Systems■ Copper Cabling Systems■ Outlets■ Raceway Systems■ Zone Cabling Systems■ Network Management and

PoE Systems■ Fiber Routing Systems■ Racks and Cable Management■ Network Grounding Systems■ Network Identification Systems■ Network Cable Ties and

Accessories

Consistent High Performance

Easy-to-Use Universal Tool

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