How to Measure Pre-Terminated Fiber Optic Cables in a Data Center?

Have you ever installed fiber optic cables in a data center and come up short? How about having too much cabling that it becomes bulky and simply unmanageable? The reason for either of these issues is inaccurate measuring.

There are a few simple steps to remember when measuring pre-terminated fiber optic cables for your or your client’s data center.

Original Diagram Courtesy of Legrand

Measurement Process

1. Calculate the entire linear cable path throughout the data center – from point A to point B

     -  This may be easiest using a scaled blue print, similar to the diagram above

     -  Make sure to measure from the farthest edges of the rack or cabinet

2.  Calculate your corner measurements by measuring the depth of your conveyance system and doubling it.

     -  This gives you your corner bend radius

     -  Demonstrated where the star is located on the diagram above

3. Calculate your total horizontal cable path by simply adding together your linear and corner measurements – steps 2 & 3

4. Determine the vertical length of your data center cabling, including your gap measurement

     -  From an under-the-floor conveyance system – measure from under the floor to the bottom of the cabinet or rack

     -  From an over-the-head conveyance system – measure from the top of the overhead conveyance system to the top of the cabinet or rack

5. Add an additional 12 feet to your total measurements

     -  This will be used as slack which allows for variation and movement of cabling

Under the Floor and Over the Head Overview

Glossary:

• Conveyance System: The system that holds your network cables

• Gap Measurement: The space between your rack or cabinet and the conveyance system

• Under-the-Floor Conveyance System: When the conveyance system is located under the floor, below your cabinet or rack

• Over-the-Head Conveyance System: When the conveyance system is located above the cabinet or rack

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