Data centers need to keep up with the ever-increasing speed, power, and complexity of cloud computing and artificial intelligence, and that means that data center cable needs to evolve just as quickly. Whether in a traditional or hyperscale data center facility, choosing the right cable is paramount to maximizing efficiency, minimizing downtime, and preparing for future technology upgrades.
So, what exactly should you look for in a data center cable? Read on to explore the characteristics and cable types that matter most to certified installers and infrastructure professionals.
If there’s anything a data center cable needs, it’s the ability to scale with bandwidth demand. Proterial Cable America (PCA) meets this need with Base-8 and Base-16 fiber optic cables, which provide a structured path from 10G to 40G, 100G, 400G, and beyond.
These fiber architectures are purpose-built for hyperscale environments where clean port mapping and predictable scalability are critical. Base-8 and Base-16 configurations align with the fiber counts in modern transceivers—reducing stranded fibers, improving connector efficiency, enabling faster, cleaner upgrades without reworking your existing infrastructure.
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By matching transceiver fiber counts, these architectures streamline installations, making it easier to upgrade performance without overhauling your infrastructure.
Space comes at a premium in a data center. With rack density increasing and airflow a necessary consideration, your cable needs to deliver more performance in less physical space. PCA’s NanoCore® Micro Distribution Multi-Unit Plenum Cables meet this challenge with a compact footprint that supports high fiber counts.
With a small outside diameter, reduced weight, and a plenum-rated jacket for fire safety, these cables are perfect for use in drop ceilings and raised floors and tray routing. In addition, their flexibility allows for tight bends, clean routing, and efficient installation in crowded trays and enclosures.
Because of space considerations as well as the growing presence of remote and edge devices in data centers, hybrid cables that can deliver both power and data in a single run have become increasingly important. PCA’s Class IV Power+ Hybrid Cables do exactly that, combining fiber optics with copper conductors, enabling both power and data delivery in a single pull while reducing labor, conduit requirements, and rack clutter.
These cables are UL Class IV certified, rated to 450V, and available with up to 12 fibers and 8 pairs of 12–16 AWG power conductors. Unlike standard composites, they support longer runs, smaller wire gauges, and compliance with FMPS interconnect systems, making them ideal for advanced applications like Digital Electricity™. They’re a smart choice where traditional power delivery methods fall short.
When you talk about tight quarters, low air movement, potentially high heat, and other problematic details highlighting the data center environment it becomes clear that meeting or exceeding industry safety standards the way PCA products do isn’t just important—it’s necessary.
For example, the NanoCore® Armored Plenum cable is plenum-rated, making it suitable for air-handling spaces and compliant with building codes. Whether you’re working in riser spaces, plenum ceilings, internal panels, or exterior installations, PCA’s product catalog includes compliant options tailored to each environment.
The ideal data center cable isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s a solution that balances speed, power, size, safety, and installation efficiency—without compromising long-term scalability.
Whether you’re updating a single rack or laying the foundation for a hyperscale facility, PCA’s broad range of fiber optic, and Class IV hybrid cables will help you build smarter, denser, and more reliable systems.
Contact us today to talk about the right cables for your data center project.
