Date of Publication: December 1, 2025
In the wave of digital transformation, the stability and efficiency of communication infrastructure have become the cornerstone of enterprise and data center operations. The MDF (Main Distribution Frame) acts as the critical central nervous system, connecting internal and external networks. Incorrect MDF selection can lead to network bottlenecks, management chaos, and system failures.
This article provides a detailed guide for MDF selection and deployment, incorporating traditional DDF (Digital Distribution Frame) types, to help build a reliable, future-proof infrastructure.
MDF selection is a systems engineering task, not just equipment procurement. Decision-making should follow international standards (e.g., TIA-569-D, ANSI/BICSI 002-2019) and consider the following factors:
- Physical Location & Environment: MDF rooms should be isolated from water sources, heat, and vibration. Independent climate control is mandatory (ideal: 18-24°C, 40-55% humidity), along with sufficient load-bearing capacity and dust prevention measures.
- Network Scale & Scalability: Space planning should include 20%-30% redundancy for future upgrades and port expansion.
- Cable Management & Layout: Efficient cable management is crucial. Plan for vertical and horizontal cable trays, ensuring safety distances between signal and power lines to prevent electromagnetic interference.
- Signal Type & Impedance Matching: In traditional telecom and broadcast fields, accurately matching signal impedance (120Ω or 75Ω) is essential for signal integrity.
MDFs are categorized by deployment scenario and design features. Each type has specific optimal use cases.
| Type | Key Features | Ideal Application Scenarios |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinet-Type | Enclosed, secure, 19-inch standard, dust-proof. | Large data centers, core machine rooms, high-security areas. |
| Open Rack Type | Open rack frame, excellent heat dissipation, easy maintenance, lower cost. | Small/medium enterprise IDFs, labs, climate-controlled rooms. |
| Wall-Mounted | Compact, space-saving, installed directly on the wall. | Space-constrained areas, small offices, retail back-rooms. |
| DDF (120Ω & 75Ω) | Specialized for digital signal cross-connection and impedance matching. | Telecom central offices, broadcast centers, E1/T1 lines. |
Below is image for each type reference.
- Cabinet Type: (Inside Terminal Block can depends on customer requirement type)
Different end user have different type request.
Such As: Sunsea Type/Huawei Type / Krone Type / Putian Type
- Open Type: Krone Type / Huawei Type
Krone Type, General is 1400 Pairs/1600 Pairs (2 Row)
Can be Wall Mount / Floor Standing
Huawei Type-High Density (Can 100% replace the Huawei JPX202 Series)
1000 Pairs/2000 Pairs/3000 Pairs.
Width can expand
| Description | Appearance | Features and Benefits |
| 100 Pairs Cable Side Terminal Block |