Network Cabling
Network cabling is an essential aspect of server hardware installation and management. Here are some key points related to network cabling:
a) Redundant networking: Redundant networking is a setup where there are multiple network paths available for data transmission. It helps to improve network uptime and prevent network downtime in case of a failure.
b) Twisted pair: Twisted pair cables are a type of network cabling that consist of pairs of copper wires twisted together. They are commonly used for Ethernet networks.
c) Fiber: Fiber optic cables use light to transmit data and are capable of transmitting data over long distances. They are used in high-speed network connections.
d) SC, LC: SC and LC are connector types used for fiber optic cables. SC stands for Subscriber Connector and LC stands for Lucent Connector.
The properties and differences are as given below:
1. Size: The LC connector is smaller in size compared to the SC connector. The LC connector has a ferrule diameter of 1.25 mm, while the SC connector has a ferrule diameter of 2.5 mm.
2. Polishing: The LC connector uses a ceramic ferrule, which allows for precise polishing and low insertion loss. The SC connector uses a larger ceramic ferrule, which can result in higher insertion loss.
3. Durability: The LC connector is generally more durable compared to the SC connector. The smaller size of the LC connector allows for better strain relief, which reduces the risk of cable damage.
4. Application: The LC connector is commonly used in high-density applications, such as data centers and telecommunication networks. The SC connector is commonly used in older installations and in applications where larger ferrules are required.
5. Ease of use: The LC connector is easier to connect and disconnect compared to the SC connector, due to its smaller size and latch design.
e) Single mode, Multimode: Single mode and multimode are types of fiber optic cables. Single mode cables are used for longer distance transmissions, while multimode cables are used for shorter distances.
f) Gigabit: Gigabit Ethernet is a type of Ethernet network that is capable of transmitting data at a rate of 1 gigabit per second.
g) 10 GigE: 10 GigE is a high-speed Ethernet network that is capable of transmitting data at a rate of 10 gigabits per second.
h) Small form factor pluggable (SFP), SFP+, Quad small form factor pluggable (QSFP): SFP, SFP+, and QSFP are types of transceivers used to connect networking equipment to fiber optic cables.
SFP, SFP+, and QSFP are types of transceivers used to connect networking equipment to fiber optic cables. Here are the differences between them:
1. SFP: SFP stands for Small Form-factor Pluggable. It is a compact, hot-swappable transceiver that supports data rates up to 4 Gbps. SFP transceivers are used for both single-mode and multimode connections.
2. SFP+: SFP+ stands for Enhanced Small Form-factor Pluggable. It is an updated version of SFP that supports higher data rates, up to 10 Gbps. SFP+ transceivers are used for both single-mode and multimode connections.
3. QSFP: QSFP stands for Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable. It is a high-density transceiver that supports data rates up to 40 Gbps. QSFP transceivers are used for both single-mode and multimode connections.
i) Cable management: Proper cable management is important to prevent cable damage, reduce clutter, and improve airflow. Cable ties, cable trays, and other cable management tools should be used to keep network cables organized and neat. Additionally, network cables should be routed away from power cables and other equipment to prevent interference and damage.
Server chassis types
There are three main types of server chassis: tower, rack mount, and blade enclosure.
1. Tower: A tower chassis is a standalone server that sits on the floor or a desktop. Tower servers are typically used in small offices or as entry-level servers. They are easy to set up and maintain and can be easily upgraded.
2. Rack mount: A rack mount chassis is designed to be mounted in a standard 19-inch server rack. Rack mount servers are more compact and efficient than tower servers, as they allow for higher density and easier maintenance. They are commonly used in data centers and enterprise-level networks.
3. Blade enclosure: A blade enclosure is a chassis that can hold multiple blade servers. Blade servers are designed to be compact and energy-efficient, and they share power and cooling resources with other blades in the enclosure. Blade enclosures are commonly used in high-density data centers and large-scale virtualization environments.
In summary, tower servers are standalone servers that sit on the floor or a desktop, rack mount servers are designed to be mounted in a server rack, and blade servers are designed to be used in a blade enclosure, which can hold multiple blade servers in a high-density configuration.
