TX Matrix Routing Matrix Hardware Configurations

Routing Matrix Configurations

A fully loaded routing matrix configuration consists of one TX Matrix router, four T640 routers, three to five 44-U, seismic-rated racks, 20 fiber-optic array cables, 10 Ethernet cables, and a cable management system. There are two types of configurations to consider when you plan and prepare for the installation of the routing matrix—centralized and distributed.

Centralized Configuration

In the centralized configuration, three racks are placed next to each other in a row. Figure 1 and Figure 2 show a rack view and a top view of a centralized configuration in which the left and center racks each hold two T640 routers, and the right rack holds the TX Matrix router. In Figure 2, each connection to a T640 router represents five fiber-optic array cables.

Note: In the configuration shown in Figure 1, if the raceway is less than 1 m above the racks, 5-m fiber-optic array cables are usually long enough to connect the system.

In the centralized configuration, the total weight of the routing matrix and the heat it generates are concentrated in a relatively small area. You must ensure that your site can support the weight and your site cooling can adequately dissipate the heat. For physical and environmental specifications, see Physical Specifications and TX Matrix Router Environmental Specifications.

You can order the centralized configuration as a turnkey solution, or you can configure it from existing T640 routers.

Figure 1: Centralized Configuration—Rack View

Figure 2: Centralized Configuration

Distributed Configuration

In the distributed configuration, the placement of the racks is more flexible. Ensure that the rack placement allows you to connect the T640 routers to the TX Matrix router using the fiber-optic array cables. The maximum cable length is 100 m. The total weight and heat dissipation of the routing matrix are important in the distributed configuration, but not as critical as in the centralized configuration. For physical and environmental specifications, see Physical Specifications and TX Matrix Router Environmental Specifications.

Figure 3 shows a top view of the distributed configuration. Each connection to a T640 router represents five fiber-optic array cables.

Note: If you plan to use 100-m fiber-optic array cables, contact your customer support representative before you connect the T640 router and TX Matrix router.

Figure 3: Distributed Configuration