Submittal

More Meaningful Connections
9 WHITE PAPER – Introduction to the Micro Data Center (MDC)
Figure 6. Panduit Lock-In, Blockout, and Keyed Connectivity Devices for Copper and Fiber Optic Cabling Deployments Help Mitigate
Physical Security Risk in the MDC Infrastructure
Visual Identication
The use of clear visual identication practices throughout the infrastructure can aid rapid problem identication,
facilitating quick troubleshooting and subsequent repair. This is accomplished through the use of cable labeling
to identify connections and color coding to enhance wire management (connectivity, network security blockouts/
lock-ins, and patch cords).
Cables equipped with descriptive labels that have “from” and “to” end points printed on them allow technicians
to quickly trace cables, thereby minimizing improper disconnects. Color coding is a quick visual reference that
provides meaning to a cable; for example, red patch cords may indicate connections to a re wall or safety
specic systems. Color coding can also be used to note manufacturing process, building destination, cable
media performance, network segment, VLANs, or departments.
Physical Network Security
Ensuring the network is protected from unwanted intrusion or erroneous connections is of major concern in any
environment (see Figure 6). Cable security is essential to achieve a full physical “defense in depth” strategy.
Unused network ports can be blocked with plastic inserts (blockouts) to prevent unauthorized or mistaken
access. Critical cabling can be “locked-in” to ports to prevent accidental or malicious disconnections. A further
layer of security can be achieved through the use of keyed jacks and connectors that require specic keyed
patch cords for connection.