Distribution Systems Flashcards
2.4, 5.5
Cable Distribution System
■ Organized system connecting network backbone to end users via
distribution frames
■ Design should be hierarchical for logical and functional placement within
buildings
Demarcation Point
● Location at which the Internet Service Provider (ISP) connection
ends, and network infrastructure and cabling actually begins
● Marks entrance of WAN into facility
● Responsibility shifts to organization beyond this point
Main Distribution Frame (MDF)
● Primary starting point for interior cabling distribution
● Houses main point of presence router and backbone switch
○ Backbone switch connects all network components
Intermediate Distribution Frame (IDF)
● Branches out from MDF to serve smaller areas
● Contains edge switches for local connections
● Cable Trays
○ A unit or assembly of units that form a rigid structural
system to securely support the cables and raceways
■ Horizontal – installed in drop ceilings or beneath
raised floors
■ Vertical – vertical cross-connect, minimizing vertical
cable crossings between floors
Racks
● Hold network equipment for efficient space management
● Various types:
○ 2-post – for lighter equipment/patch pannels/network
cabling
○ 4-post – for heavier equipment
○ Wall-mounted – space-saving solution for smaller
equipment
○ Rack enclosures – for high-value equipment
Patch Panels
- Organize and facilitate connections within network infrastructure
● Utilize both sides
○ Front – network jacks (RJ-45 network ports)
○ Back – 110 punchdown block
110 Block
○ A type of punchdown block used for both voice and data
applications that rely on CAT 5 or newer copper-based
networks
○ Installed using a punchdown tool
● Preferred over direct connections for network maintenance and port protection
Fiber Distribution Panel
● Facilitate fiber connections without punchdown blocks
● Uses SC, LC, ST , or MTRJ
● Can act as a converter for types of fiber connection
Powder Distribution Systems
Crucial for consistent and reliable power delivery
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
■ An electrical apparatus that provides emergency power during main
power failures
■ Offers surge protection and line conditioning
■ Typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes
■ Installed at the bottom of each rack in data centers
■ Some data centers use larger UPS systems supporting multiple racks or
the entire facility
Power Distribution Unit (PDU)
■ A specialized device that distributes electric power to network
components and computing equipment
■ Advanced power strips with power monitoring and control features
■ May be rack-mounted or in large cabinets for rows of servers
■ Provides surge protection but not full protection against complete power
loss
Generators
■ Installed outside data centers for longer-term power during outages
■ Powered by diesel, gasoline, or propane
■ Paired with UPS or battery backup for seamless power transition
■ Automatic transfer switch shifts power between UPS and generator
Power Load Management
■ Critical for preventing circuit overloads and ensuring efficient power
usage
■ Careful calculation and monitoring of power loads on circuits
■ New equipment installations require assessing power impact and
balancing loads across data center
Voltage
● Electric potential difference crucial in power distribution
● US standard – 120 volts
● European standard – 230 volts
■ Equipment must match voltage standards to operate properly
■ Dual voltage equipment can operate on both standards
■ Mismatched voltage can damage or destroy equipment
Voltage Considerations
Key Considerations
■ Install UPS, PDU, and backup generator for comprehensive power
management
■ Ensure seamless power transition and protection against outages for data
center reliability
■ Consider powe
Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system
■ Technology designed for indoor environmental comfort that provides
temperature control, humidity management, and airflow regulation
■ Important for hardware and networking devices
Humidity Levels
■ Humidity
● Refers to the concentration of water vapor in the air
■ Too much humidity can cause condensation, leading to corrosion or
electrical shorts
■ Too little humidity can cause static buildup, potentially damaging
sensitive electronics
■ Maintain relative humidity level of 40-60%
Airflow Management
■ Important for dissipating heat generated by equipment in data centers
■ Proper airflow management is crucial to prevent overheating or system
shutdowns
Port-side Exhaust and Intake (“Hot/cold aisle” Configuration)
● Strategic method of air distribution in which server racks are
positioned in alternating rows with cold and hot air
● Maximizes cooling efficiency
● Reduces energy consumption
Design Considerations
■ Plan data center layouts with HVAC factors in mind
■ Proper rack spacing and orientation for efficient airflow
■ Use raised floor systems to push cold air upward into racks and expel hot
air
■ Configure ceiling plenums to return cooled air to the data center
○ Integration of HVAC system is imperative for uninterrupted operation and
optimal performance of network and data center equipment
Wet Pipe System
■ Most basic type of fire suppression system
■ Involves sprinkler system with pipes always containing water
■ Activation occurs when fire alarm triggers valve opening, releasing water
■ Common in traditional office buildings but poses risk of water damage to
equipment
Pre-action System
■ Aim to minimize accidental releases
■ Requires both detector actuation (e.g., smoke detector) and sprinkler
activation before water release
■ Offers enhanced security similar to two-factor authentication for fire
system
Special Suppression System
■ Utilize clean agents like halon, carbon agent, or inert gas
■ Displaces oxygen in the room, suffocating fire
■ Presents suffocation risk to people
● Requires alarms and supplemental oxygen for personnel
○ Safety Measures
■ Install clean agent systems to prevent water damage to equipment
■ Ensure systems are professionally installed and annually inspected
■ Be prepared for potential fire incidents by having suppression systems
ready for use
○ While hoping to avoid fire incidents, it’s crucial to have properly installed and
maintained fire suppression systems in data centers to mitigate risks effectively
