End-to-end links – Direct attach cabling (DAC)

Wherever telecommunication outlets and patch cords are unwanted, electronic devices are connected to the horizontal cable. Modular plug terminated links (MPTLs), direct attach cabling (DAC) and end-to-end links (E2E links) have proven their worth. This article focuses on direct attach cabling.

Direct attach cabling (DAC) not only omits the telecommunication outlet but also the patch panel. Devices are simply connected directly by a cable with plugs on each end. Direct attach cabling is used in data centers for instance to connect servers and storage directly to switches. Also in very small networks like the ones in small agencies and home offices, where a distributor would be out of all proportions for just a few ports, direct attach cabling with extra-long patch cords to connect the devices to a switch can be a very cost-effective alternative to classic structured cabling with its patch panels and outlets. DAC is recognized by the global technical report ISO/IEC TR 11801-9907:2019.