Link configuration planning

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Physical configuration is the actual path from one product to another.
  • You will need the design plans for your facility to determine the following
    • The locations of data processing equipment
    • The locations of users who require links
    • The number and location of the physical connections of the cabling system.
      Note: For optical fiber cabling requirements between telecommunications closets, you need two optical fibers for each device you want to connect plus 10% extra for maintenance and repair, at a minimum.
  • Plan the paths for the cable link from the product location to attaching product location, and determine the following
    • Length and type of each segment of the link (such as jumper cable, or backbone)
    • Identification and location of each connector, splice, and distribution panel in the link.
  • Check the design specifications (which are prepared for accepting bids) to verify that they contain at least the following information
    • Correct fiber cable type
    • Bandwidth requirements
    • Conformance to national, state, and local building codes.
  • The physical configuration information is used during link loss calculations. The calculated loss budget for each link loss should become part of the design specifications. Installers should verify that the link loss budget has been met for each installed strand of optical fiber. Refer to the appropriate link loss calculation section for IBM® product sets.

In the raised floor environment, the number and location of connection points can be large, which requires many long jumper cables. Consider installing a trunking system under the raised floor to facilitate the management of these connections.

When attaching other devices and applications to a common fiber trunk, first refer to each device's planning publication for specifications and cable requirements.