Huawei Standardizes Cable Management for Highdensity Data Centers

In data center infrastructure, high-density disk arrays are widely adopted for their exceptional storage capacity. However, accompanying cable management challenges—such as disorganized wiring, obstructed airflow, and maintenance difficulties—have become increasingly apparent. Cable trays serve as an effective solution to standardize cable routing, optimize space utilization, and reduce operational costs. This report provides a comprehensive installation guide for Huawei’s high-density disk array cable trays, ensuring standardized, efficient, and safe implementation.

Data centers prioritize secure, reliable, and efficient data access. Cables, as the physical medium for data transmission, directly impact system performance and stability. Poor cable management can impede airflow, cause overheating, and complicate troubleshooting. Huawei’s cable tray system addresses these issues through standardized installation protocols for orderly cable organization.

This guide applies to all environments deploying Huawei high-density disk arrays, particularly those with stringent cable management requirements, including:

• Large-scale data centers
• Cloud computing platforms
• Enterprise storage systems

Before installation, complete the following preparations to ensure a seamless process.

• Device Verification: Confirm the disk array is correctly installed and secured in the rack per Huawei’s documentation.
• Safety Protocols: Adhere to data center safety standards, including electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection and electrical safety. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as anti-static gloves.

Gather the following:

• M3 screws: For tray fixation; use genuine parts to ensure durability.
• Phillips screwdriver: Magnetic-tip recommended to prevent screw loss.
• Anti-static gloves: Mandatory for ESD-sensitive components.
• Cable trays: Verify compatibility with the disk array model and inspect for damage.
• Cable ties: Flame-retardant type preferred for safety.
• Labeling tools: Printer and tags for cable identification.
• Measuring tape/level: For alignment and precision.

• ESD Prevention: Discharge static electricity before handling components.
• Power Safety: Ensure equipment is powered off during installation.
• Weight Limits: Observe tray load capacities to avoid overloading.

Follow these sequential steps for tray installation.

Align left (L) and right (R) trays with openings oriented uniformly (Figure 1).

1. Insert the upper section into the disk array’s slot (Figure 2, Step 1).
2. Secure the lower section to the slide rail bracket (Figure 2, Step 2).
3. Fasten with M3 screws, ensuring alignment with limit catches (Figure 3).

Mirror the left tray process, noting "R" markings for orientation (Figures 4–5).

• Categorization: Separate cables by type (e.g., power, Mini SAS HD, grounding).
• Routing: Avoid crossovers; use tray channels for layered organization.
• Securing: Fasten with ties without overtightening (Figure 6).

Engage pins to interlock trays (Figure 7), ensuring automatic alignment with support structures.

Test tray mobility by sliding the disk array in/out multiple times. Adjust screws if movement is uneven.

Tag cables with type, device, and port details. Maintain records of routing paths and connections.

Cause: Loose screws or misaligned slots. Solution: Retighten and realign.

Cause: Cable tangles or dry rails. Solution: Reorganize cables; lubricate rails.

Cause: Poor adhesion. Solution: Use high-quality labels; clean surfaces before application.

This guide standardizes cable tray installation for Huawei disk arrays, enhancing data center efficiency. Proper cable management mitigates overheating risks, simplifies maintenance, and ensures operational reliability.