Cable should be sized with a growth factor of what percentage?

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Multiple Choice

Cable should be sized with a growth factor of what percentage?

Explanation:
When sizing cable, you include a growth factor to provide space for future expansion so you don’t have to re-cable soon. The commonly recommended range for this factor is 15–20%. This margin reflects typical increases in equipment density and bandwidth needs over the life of the installation, giving a practical cushion without overbuilding. In practice, you apply it by multiplying the current required capacity by 1.15 to 1.20. For example, if you determine you need a certain number of fibers today, plan for 15–20% more than that. Then pick a cable size that meets or exceeds that expanded requirement. Smaller growth margins (like 5–10% or 10–15%) may under-prepare you for future growth, while larger margins (like 20–25%) can lead to unnecessary cost.

When sizing cable, you include a growth factor to provide space for future expansion so you don’t have to re-cable soon. The commonly recommended range for this factor is 15–20%. This margin reflects typical increases in equipment density and bandwidth needs over the life of the installation, giving a practical cushion without overbuilding.

In practice, you apply it by multiplying the current required capacity by 1.15 to 1.20. For example, if you determine you need a certain number of fibers today, plan for 15–20% more than that. Then pick a cable size that meets or exceeds that expanded requirement. Smaller growth margins (like 5–10% or 10–15%) may under-prepare you for future growth, while larger margins (like 20–25%) can lead to unnecessary cost.

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