Bi-directional data center architectures employing a jacketless trunk cable are disclosed. The bi-directional data center architecture includes first and second coupling panels respectively operably connected to first and second trunk cables, wherein the first and second coupling panels respectively have first adapters and second adapters. The architecture also includes a plurality of sub-racks having sub-rack adapters, and a jacketless trunk cable that includes a plurality of sub-units, with each sub-unit carrying one or more optical fibers. The plurality of sub-units are configured to optically connect corresponding first and second adapters of the first and second coupling panels to the sub-rack adapters such that every optical fiber in each sub-unit is used to establish an optical connection.