Maximizing Data Center Efficiency with MTP® OM5 Cables
Updated at May 13th 20241 min read
As new technologies emerge, data centers face greater demands for higher speeds and increased bandwidth. MTP® OM5 fiber optic cable is capable of meeting these demands and has become increasingly popular for high-speed transmission. This article will explore the applications of MTP® OM5 fiber in data centers and its advantages over other cable options.
A Brief Introduction to MTP® OM5
MTP® OM5 is a new type of multimode fiber(MMF) that is comprised of MTP® optical fibers and MTP® connectors. MTP® OM5 fiber cable has a clear effective modal bandwidth (EMB) and low fiber cable attenuation. It works well with wavelengths from 840 nm to 953 nm, which are inexpensive. Furthermore, OM5 cable was designed specifically to support shortwave division multiplexing (SWDM) applications, which means it requires fewer fibers to achieve fast transmissions. OM5 fiber cable with MTP® fiber connector can achieve longer transmission distances when used with SWDM optical modules.
Reasons to Choose MTP® OM5 in the Data Center
SWDM Technology Reduces Fiber Counts
SWDM is a technique that employs four wavelengths within the 850 to 950 nm spectrum. MTP® OM5 wideband multi-mode fiber allows for the use of a broader range of wavelengths. This reduces the requirement for multiple fibers. Instead, it transmits different VCSEL wavelengths in the same fiber.
In a 40G layout, fiber optic technicians traditionally had to use one MTP® fiber and 4 OM4 duplex fibers, totaling 8 fibers. By comparison, OM5 fiber combined with SWDM technology offers a more efficient solution. With this combination, the number of fibers needed is reduced to 2 fibers for 40G networks (4x10G) and 2 fibers for 100G links (4x25G). In addition, MTP® OM5 connector can accommodate up to 288 individual fibers. The use of 8/12/24 fibers in a single MTP® cable also reduces cleaning and inspection time. MTP® fiber optic cable is widely recognized for its high density.
Low Latency with Longer Transmission Distance
When used at the same rate, MTP® OM5 fiber cable can offer longer connections, particularly when combined with SWDM technology. With 40G/100G optical modules (400G SWDM4/100G SWDM4), the transmission range can extend up to 440 meters and 150 meters respectively. Therefore, MTP® OM5 fibers offer a longer transfer option for data center cabling. The following table showcases a distance comparison between OM3, OM4, and OM5 fiber optic cables. It's important to mention that the information provided in the table is derived from the outcomes achieved with the FS optical module.
Morever, MTP® OM5 optical cable offers a dependable connection. OM5 fiber optic cables have a much larger bandwidth than OM3 and OM4 cables. MTP® OM5 is considered to have low latency mainly due to its high bandwidth capacity and increased transmission distance. As MTP® OM5 fiber can support higher data transfer rates and longer transmission distances, it can reduce latency during transmission.
Compatibility with Existing OM3/OM4 System
MTP® OM5 cable has the same fiber size as OM4 and OM3, making it fully compatible with these legacy fibers. This compatibility ensures that data centers can smoothly transition to MTP® OM5 optical cable without disrupting their existing operations.
Meanwhile, by offering compatibility with OM3 and OM4 systems, MTP® OM5 provides a flexible and future-proof solution for data centers. Multimode OM5 MTP® fiber can support all legacy applications in existing data center infrastructures, such as cassettes and racks of the original cabling system. Service providers seeking to implement a high-speed environment with MTP® OM5 will not need to make significant changes to their existing cabling infrastructure.
Considerations for Implementing MTP® OM5 Cables in Data Centers
Protection of Fiber Optic Cables
Fiber optic cables are very fragile and need to be handled with great care to avoid damage. Measures should be taken during installation and maintenance to protect the fiber optic cables from bending, pulling, and crushing.
Installation Location
MTP® multimode cables should be installed in a dry, ventilated environment that is not susceptible to physical damage and electromagnetic interference. The cables should be placed in protective facilities such as cable trays and conduits to avoid unnecessary damage and cross-interference.
Cleaning and Maintenance of Connectors
MTP® OM5 cable connectors should be regularly cleaned and maintained to ensure their normal operation and reliability. Professional tools and cleaning agents should be used to clean the connectors, and common cleaning agents and abrasive materials should be avoided to prevent damage to the connectors. Get more information at A Full Introduction of MTP®/MPO Connector Cleaning Solutions.
Conclusion
MTP® OM5 fiber optic cable offers several advantages that make it an ideal choice for meeting the increasing demands of modern data centers. With its ability to reduce fiber counts with SWDM technology, support high speeds, and offer compatibility with existing OM3/OM4 systems. Overall, MTP® OM5 fiber optic cable is a dependable and effective solution that meets the needs of modern data centers.