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How to Choose 100G High-Speed Cabling?

In modern data communication and network infrastructure, 100G high-speed cables play a vital role. With the sharp increase in data volume and the rise in bandwidth demand, 100G networks have become the standard for many data centers, enterprise-level networks, and telecommunications service providers. However, how to choose the right 100G high-speed cables remains a challenge for many network engineers and data center managers. This article will provide a detailed interpretation of the definition, advantages, and selection criteria of 100G high-speed cables to help make scientific and rational choices.
Definition of 100G High-Speed Cables 100G high-speed cables refer to cables that support a data transfer rate of 100Gbps. They typically use conductive copper cables to achieve direct connections between two ends, with an internal structure usually designed as shielded twisted pairs, without any active components. High-speed cables are mainly used for rack connections within systems, linking computing servers to storage subsystems. Common types of 100G high-speed cables include passive copper cables (DAC) and active copper cables (AEC).
 
Advantages of 100G High-Speed Cables In short-distance transmission, high-speed cables offer significant economic and performance benefits. Here are some of the main advantages of high-speed cables:
  • High Performance: High-speed cables are suitable for short-distance transmission, providing low-latency, high-bandwidth connections. They are widely used for high-speed switching and routing within data centers.
  • Low Power Consumption: High-speed cables use copper cables for direct electrical signal transmission, thus having relatively low power consumption. They are suitable for scenarios with high energy efficiency requirements. For example, passive copper cables (DAC) do not require an external power source, while active copper cables (AEC) generally have a power consumption of around 440mW.
  • Low Cost: Compared to optical cables and optical modules, high-speed cables are less expensive. Especially when deployed on a large scale in data centers, they can effectively reduce initial deployment costs, providing an economical and efficient connection method for short-distance links.
  • Easy Configuration: High-speed cables are flexible and easy to install and maintain. They occupy less rack space and are suitable for connections between devices within data center racks or environments where wiring needs to be changed frequently. This simple installation method not only reduces the need for professionals but also improves deployment efficiency.
 
How to Choose 100G High-Speed Cables When selecting 100G high-speed cables, multiple factors need to be considered, including passive vs. active, form factor, AWG gauge, and cable length.
  1. Passive vs. Active
    • Passive High-Speed Cables (DAC): These are direct-attach cables that do not require an external power source. They transmit signals through simple cable transmission without any signal amplification or enhancement. This type of cable has a relatively simple structure and is suitable for short-distance connections, typically performing well within distances of up to 5 meters.
    • Active High-Speed Cables (AEC): Similar to passive high-speed cables, the difference lies in the inclusion of microprocessors and other electronic components inside the connectors, which enhance and extend the signal. This gives active high-speed cables greater advantages in transmission distance and stability, usually supporting stable transmission within a range of up to 9 meters. AEC active cables also have forward error correction (FEC) and cable retiming functions, ensuring fully balanced signals with ultra-low bit error rates.
  2. Form Factor The form factor of high-speed cables determines their compatibility and speed. Common 100G high-speed cable form factors include SFP-DD, SFP112, QSFP28, etc. Choosing the right form factor is crucial, especially in network environments with mixed rates. In some complex network applications, multi-port high-speed cables may be encountered, i.e., high-speed cables with multiple connectors at one end. Such cables offer greater flexibility, supporting connections to more ports. Common configurations include "100G QSFP28 to 4×25G SFP28".
  3. AWG Gauge The gauge of high-speed cables determines the diameter of the cable and its ability to carry current. Generally, the smaller the AWG value, the larger the diameter of the cable and the higher the current it can carry; the larger the AWG value, the thinner the cable and the weaker its current-carrying capacity. Common AWG values for high-speed cables range from 24 to 30. Lower AWG values (such as 24AWG) are suitable for short-distance, high-speed data transmission, while higher AWG values (such as 30AWG) are suitable for longer-distance applications.
  4. Cable Length The length of the cable directly affects its applicable range and signal quality. Choosing the right length of high-speed cable is key to ensuring the stable operation of the network. Generally, 100G passive high-speed cables are suitable for shorter transmission distances, usually within 5 meters; while 100G active high-speed cables are suitable for longer transmission ranges within 9 meters.
 
Summary
When choosing 100G high-speed cables, it is essential to weigh multiple factors based on specific application scenarios, including whether to choose passive or active high-speed cables, form factor, AWG gauge, and cable length. By understanding these factors, you can ensure that the selected high-speed cables meet the current network's performance requirements and are prepared for future expansion. Here are some specific application scenarios and recommendations:
  • Short-Distance Connections Within Data Centers: If the connection distance is within 5 meters, it is recommended to use passive high-speed cables (DAC) because of their low cost and easy installation.
  • Connections Between Racks or Longer Distances: If the connection distance is between 5 and 9 meters, it is recommended to use active high-speed cables (AEC) because they offer longer transmission distances and higher signal quality.
  • High-Density Wiring Environments: In high-density wiring environments with limited space, it is recommended to use active high-speed cables (AEC) because of their small size, light weight, and minimal space occupation. By considering these factors comprehensively, choose the 100G high-speed cables that best meet your network needs to ensure the efficient and stable operation of the network and prepare for future expansion.

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