CommScope's innovations help data centres adapt to high fibre counts

As artificial intelligence technologies like generative AI, machine learning, and deep learning saw a significant surge in 2023, data centres found themselves grappling with an unprecedented explosion of data.

This surge has pushed data centre managers to increase capacity at breakneck speeds, necessitating advancements in both fibre cabling and connectivity. At the forefront of these innovations is CommScope, a leader in communications technology, whose Propel platform is setting new standards for fibre density and efficiency.

With data centre interconnect (DCI) trunk cabling seeing a dramatic rise in fibre counts, some operators are already doubling their designed capacity.

Within data centres, fibre connections have evolved from two fibres per switch port to configurations using 8, 16, or even more fibres per port. However, as fibre counts increase, the limited physical space within data centres presents a significant challenge.

CommScope's Propel platform addresses this issue head-on. Designed for modularity and ultra-low loss, Propel offers data centre operators a flexible, high-speed fibre solution that easily scales to support higher fibre counts. The platform's high-density fibre panels, interchangeable modules, and adapters not only simplify deployment but also reduce costs and complexity, making it easier for data centres to adapt to the growing data demands.

One of the standout features of modern fibre technology is the rollable ribbon fibre cabling. Unlike traditional fibre designs, rollable ribbon cables feature intermittently bonded fibres that form a loose web. This design significantly enhances flexibility, allowing up to 3,456 fibres to be packed into a 2-inch duct - effectively doubling the density of conventional cables.

This innovation is a key part of CommScope's Propel platform, providing a solution for managing higher fibre counts within the tight confines of data centres.

Another crucial innovation in fibre technology is the reduction in fibre diameter. Traditional telecom optical fibres typically have a nominal coating diameter of 250 microns. However, with the need for smaller cables to manage higher densities, many designs now utilise fibres with 200-micron coatings. This reduction allows for smaller cable constructions without compromising performance, making it easier to fit more fibres within limited spaces - a challenge that CommScope's solutions adeptly address.

In addition to cable innovations, the introduction of very small form factor (VSFF) connectors is revolutionising cabling density. These connectors, available in 2-, 8-, or 16-fibre configurations, are designed to align with transceiver applications, offering better density and breakout options directly at the transceiver.

CommScope's Propel platform incorporates these advanced connectors, further enhancing its capacity to manage high-density fibre deployments.

CommScope's commitment to innovation extends to new multifibre options in the SN and MDC connector footprints. These include the MMC16 and MMC24 connectors, which house 16 or 24 fibres in the same space as their duplex counterparts. Enabled by a smaller MT ferrule, these connectors simplify installation and improve performance, aligning perfectly with the needs of modern data centres.

For data centre managers, CommScope provides a comprehensive design guide within the Propel platform, offering an at-a-glance reference of components and configurations.

Coupled with support from local CommScope sales engineers, this guide helps managers navigate the complexities of adapting to higher fibre counts, ensuring their data centres are prepared for future demands.

As data demands continue to rise, CommScope's innovations in fibre cable technology and connectivity are crucial for maintaining efficient, scalable operations in data centres worldwide.

Embracing these advancements is key to staying ahead in an increasingly data-driven world.