CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005)Server Hardware Installation and ManagementEasy
A data center technician is installing a new rack-mounted server. After physically securing the server, they must connect it to the network and power infrastructure. Which of the following cable types is typically used for a high-speed, direct-attached storage connection to a server within the same rack?
- AFiber Optic cable (multimode)
- BUSB 3.0 cable
- CDirect Attach Cable (DAC)
- DCat6 Ethernet cable
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Direct Attach Cable (DAC)
Direct Attach Cables (DACs) are commonly used for high-speed, short-distance interconnections between servers and switches or storage devices within the same rack, offering a cost-effective alternative to optical transceivers.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Fiber optic cables are used for longer distances and higher bandwidths, but for within-rack direct-attached storage, DACs are often more cost-effective and simpler to deploy.
- B. USB 3.0 cables are for peripheral connections and consumer-grade external storage, not for enterprise direct-attached storage within a rack.
- D. Cat6 Ethernet cables are for network connectivity, not typically for direct-attached storage, and may not provide the required bandwidth for high-speed storage.
Direct Attach Cable (DAC)
A type of twinax copper cable that provides high-speed, short-distance connectivity between network devices or servers and storage, often used as a cost-effective alternative to fiber optic transceivers for intra-rack connections.
- Copper-based twinax cable.
- Used for short distances (typically up to 7-15 meters).
- Commonly supports 10GbE, 25GbE, 40GbE, 100GbE.
- Cost-effective for intra-rack connections.
Memory trick: Direct Attach Cables Deliver Data Quickly, Close By.