• Supported Platforms
• TX Matrix Plus Routers

• Related Topics
• TX Matrix Plus Cables Overview
• Connecting the Fiber-Optic Array Cables to the TX Matrix Plus Router

Fiber-Optic Array Cable Connections and Considerations

The fiber-optic array cables connect the T1600 routers to the TX Matrix Plus router (for more information, see Connecting the T1600 Router to the TX Matrix Plus Router). When planning your installation site, consider the following fiber-optic array cable requirements:

• You must use the same length for every fiber-optic array cable from a particular T1600 router to the TX Matrix Plus router. However, you do not need to use the same length for all fiber-optic array cables within a routing matrix. For example, if your routing matrix contains two T1600 routers, you can use 6-meter fiber-optic array cables to one router and 100-meter fiber-optic array cables to the other router.
• You must maintain a minimum bend radius of 4 in. (10.2 cm).
• Plastic wrap-ties can damage or crimp the fiber-optic array cables (see Figure 1). We recommend soft band straps to secure fiber-optic array cable.

  Figure 1: Using Soft Band Straps to Secure Fiber-Optic Array Cables

  

• The fiber-optic array cable connectors must fit through your site's cable conduits. For the connector dimensions, see Figure 2.

In addition, consider the following when planning your installation site:

• Make sure that any existing T1600 routers are close enough to the location of the TX Matrix Plus router, particularly in a distributed configuration. Consider the length of the longest fiber-optic array cables (100 meters), along with their routing through overhead raceways and mounting racks.
• Plan the management of the fiber-optic array cables between the T1600 routers and the TX Matrix Plus router, keeping in mind the following considerations:
  • For each T1600 router, you can have up to 20 fiber-optic array cables, or a total of 80 cables for four T1600 routers that connect to the TX Matrix Plus Router.

    Note: We recommend that you purchase additional fiber-optic array cable for each T1600 router in the TX Matrix Plus router in case any cables become damaged. Route the spare cables when you route the main cables, particularly in a distributed configuration.

  • The fiber-optic array cables must not interfere with TX Matrix Plus router and T1600 router airflow and maintenance access. For an illustration of the TX Matrix Plus router airflow, see Airflow Through the Chassis.
  • Consider PIC cabling as part of your overall cable management planning. Each T1600 router can contain up to 32 PICs, and each PIC can contain up to 10 cables (for example, the 10-port Gigabit Ethernet PIC), for a total of 320 cables per router. A routing matrix with four T1600 router could have up to 1280 cables. For more information about PICs and PIC cables, see the T1600 Core Router Hardware Guide and the T1600 Core Router PIC Guide.