DATA CENTER NETWORK DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

摘要

A method and apparatus (“utility”) for facilitating connection of rack-mounted data devices (50) to a data network is provided. The utility includes a distribution strip (42) and a number of network ports (44), disposed on the distribution strip (42), for use in connecting the rack-mounted data devices (50) to the network. The distribution strip (42) has a longitudinal axis, and is disposed on a rack (40) such that a length of the distribution strip (42), defined relative to the longitudinal axis, extends primarily or exclusively along a vertical axis of the rack (40). The distribution strip may further include a data network switch device. A utility is also provided that provides improved redundancy with regard to connections of rack-mounted data devices by including a distribution strip (42) that includes first and second ports (46) for connecting the distribution strip (42) to a network device (56).

主权项

1. An apparatus for use in connecting rack-mounted data devices to a data network, comprising:
a distribution strip having a longitudinal axis, said distribution strip being disposed on a rack such that a length of said distribution strip, defined relative to said longitudinal axis, extends primarily or exclusively along a vertical height axis of said rack; and a plurality of network ports, disposed on said distribution strip, for use in connecting said rack-mounted data devices to said network.