Patch Panel-Complete Guide

A cable patch panel is a networking instrument consisting of ports that are held together in a rack closet for the purpose of connecting incoming and outgoing Local area network (LAN), communication, and electronic systems.
They are very useful for cable management, providing neat and proper installation of all cables- while allowing cables to be arranged, re-arranged, plugged or unplugged from the ports. The number of ports contained in each panel will allow extension for future use.

When it comes to a network connection, Ethernet is the most popular media access method to the desktop computer and has been used in both small and large network environments.

Copper patch panels serve a variety of purpose, not only in cable management, but also for safety, accessibility and reliability. For high speed applications.

If you want to know more about Patch Panel, Here please continue with this articles, it will include the following topics:

What is a Patch Panel?

In a LAN ( Local Area Network), a patch panel is a hardware assembly which consist of ports where you can connect and manage incoming and outgoing LAN cables. It is a termination unit designed to provide a secure, organized chamber for housing connectors and splice units. Other terms for patch panel are patch bays, jack fields or patch fields. It is commonly used in radio or television network.

In an enterprise network, patch panel ports are used for configurations of several ethernet cables. It serves as static switchboard where computers are connected to a network using cables within a LAN to the outside lines like WAN (Wide Area Networks). These external lines will allow LAN to connect to WAN. It is also used for fiber optic cable connections.

Patch panels are attached above or below the network switch in a network rack. It acts as connector to the switch and anything connected to its ports. For the number of ports, it could be either 48-port, 24-port or 12-port panel. You can even find a 96-port up to 300 plus ports or more. With this capacity, you can imagine how big a network can be- and making it convenient and organized. You can only use cables that have the following specifications:

• Cat 5-E
• Cat 6
• Cat 6A
• Cat 7
• UTP
• Shielded twisted pair cables

Almost everything nowadays is “wirelessly” set up. For example, if you want to set up wired networks from different locations at home for faster internet connection, then, setting them up to a patch panel can give you good cable management with a very simple and easy installation. Depending on how many systems you’d like to connect, you can pick a patch panel with your desired number of ports at home or for business use.

What are the Purposes of a Patch Panel?

If you want a neat connection of cables from a central or primary location, using a patch panel will enable you to have a clean and plug-and-play set-up. At home, if a wireless connection is weak due to interference or signal barriers, you can opt to have a wired connection. If you are running wires through different rooms, it will be messy and prone to the danger of wire breakage.

For a business purpose, patch panels go with other equipment where other telecommunication devices are installed. It makes the room or the network rack organized and conducive for easy and fast repair times especially if network admins need to pull out wires or trace out a line. With the use of the patch panel, transferring communication lines become easier.

A network can be made up of optic fiber cables or copper wires. Whichever wire goes to the panel; it directs the signal traffic with high performance. Moreover, there are advantages when using it to your network set-up. Let’s enumerate the benefits you could get when you use a patch panel:

• All input jacks can be connected to a single location that enables quick fixes if a network issue occurs.
• It is cost effective because of its capacity to handle multiple channels. If you see that your network will increase over time, you can choose to get one with a high number of ports to make it available for upcoming channels.
• Allows you to have quick fixes during troubleshooting.
• It provides you with a systematic, structured, and better cable management.
• You can do maintenance checks like testing, switching, routing and isolating cables manually with ease.
• Get a clutter-free and organized cable connections for computer stations, servers, switches, and electronic instruments in less time.
• Patch panels are cheaper than switch ports. If you decide to use a switch port, it could entail more work.

What are Sizes of Patch Panel?

A Fiber Patch Panel’s measurement is determined by a rack unit. The height of the equipment that you will mount will be measured as follows:
1 RU = 1 Rack Unit
2 RU = 2 Rack Unit
3 RU = 3 Rack Unit
4 RU = 4 Rack Unit

What are types of Patch Panels?

Patch panels types are categorized according to the kind of material, mount, or installation status to used We will discuss each one below:

Type Based on Material

Patch Panel can be fiber or copper made. You can purchase with several options like based on design, port counts or configuration.

1. Fiber Patch Panel

Fiber distribution panels (another term for fiber optic patch panel) are useful for cross connections. It can either come with a single mode or multimode fiber types. It can be loaded with different adapter options like LC/SC/MTP. It serves as an interface to multiple optical fibers and equipment. It is used to terminate the fiber optic cable to have access to the cable’s individual fibers for cross connection.

It is also a mounted hardware unit with an assembly of ports for the electronic or electrical system and communication systems or networks. Fiber optic patch panel comes in wall-mount or rack-mount type. Either way, both can organize and configure fiber optic cable and connectors.  For cable management,  you can get a bracket to avoid loose or hanging cables.

2.  Copper Patch Panel

If you opted to set up a standard, flexible and dependable copper panel, this type comes in a punch-down traditional model, pre-punched or loaded options. Due to its sturdy metal construction, the platform will last long for future expansion. It comes with numbered ports to quickly identify the cables.

Copper patch panels are good for copper cables like Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, and Cat7 in a Local Area Connection or LAN. The ports are only compatible with copper cable types, especially when using a shielded or unshielded patch panels type. Some of the accessories that you can use when setting up this panel are Cat5 or Cat6 patch cables, punch down tools, cable ties, jack modules, and cable manager or wire ducts.

Type Based on Mounting

A fiber termination box or patch panel is classified into two types: Rack Mount and Wall Mount. Both can be used in data centers, telecommunication networks, and indoor networks. It provides a systematic approach for cable management and labeling features for easy configuration of cables.

1. Rack Mount Patch Panel

This type looks like a drawer that can hold up to 288 and above fibers. A rack mount patch panel is flexible with all kinds of fiber optic adapter ports, pre-installed inner trays, and accessories. Sizes can vary from 1U, 2U and 4U designs. It a fit onto a 19” and 23” relay racks.

It is applicable on fiber optic pigtails of different types such as SC, FC, ST, LC, E2000, etc. It can be customized by the fiber counts. You will see that most rack mount patch panels have a flat or angled design.

2. Wall Mount Patch Panel

Wall mount patch panels are fixed to the walls which consist of two compartments. One side is to manage outside plant cables entering the building, pigtails and pigtail splices. The other side is for internal cable assembly networking. This is the perfect choice for use in building access ports main-cross connects, computer room and telecommunication rack or closet.

It is installed in an indoor wall to protect the fiber optic cables and connections of pigtails in fiber optic cabling or user terminal applications.

Wall mount patch panels are widely used in process automation and control systems, security surveillance applications, or telecommunication networks. The big advantage of this patch panel is to optimize workspaces and off-floor cable assemblies.

It is classified based on the availability of ports like 12-port, 24-port, 48-port, 96-port or more. For the height specifications, it comes in variations of 1U, 2U,3U, etc.

Type Based on Installation Status

1. Loaded Patch Panel

A Loaded Patch Panel is one where connectors are already pre-installed which are permanently mounted. If your set up requires only one part number jacks, this is the ideal choice. It is easier and convenient than having to set it up one by one. Loaded panels have front-access termination.

This makes assembling in the rack without the hassle and less difficult or laborious. It becomes helpful for maintenance and repair. A multi-pair insertion tool is needed if you want to terminate or cut a cable so make sure that you’ll get one that allows this tool. One downside though, you are never sure if all the ports are working.

To ease this worry, get one from trusted suppliers with warranty. Check if it comes with a labeling feature for better cable management.

2. Unloaded Patch Panel

If you are going to use an unloaded patch panel, you cannot see any connectors, just holes. You can mount a few connector types as well as swapping of ports in case there’s damage.

Type Based on Design

In copper cable applications, these types of patch panels match together.

1. Shielded Patch Panel

In an environment where high electromagnetic interference or EMI is present, you need a shielded patch panel. It is preferred since it protects a high-speed network from noise interference. Running cables in places with high electrical wires need some sort of shield.  It will ensure to prevent data loss. Shielded patch panel can go up to a 10G network.

2. Unshielded Patch Panel

An unshielded patch panel like the Cat6 panel is loaded with snap-in unshielded keystone jacks. It works best with copper network systems. You can get one with port counts of 12, 24, 48 and more. If the environment has low EMI, or you will set up limited network in small spaces like home, this panel will work best.

From the Network

In an Ethernet network, the use of these panels are  associated with different speed performance rate.

1. Cat5 Patch Panel

It uses an Ethernet (RJ-45) cable. CAT 5e Patch Panels are ideal for Ethernet or Fast Ethernet/Gigabit Ethernet (1000Base-T) network applications. You can use a Punch Down Tool for crimping, cutting, and stripping. It is available with 8, 12,16,24, 48 or more ports.

2. Cat5e Patch Panel

If you are looking for an excellent solution to your Ethernet network applications, Cat5e patch panels deliver a steady 100Mhz connection to copper Gigabit switches. This type of panel is  1000Base-T Gigabit Copper Ethernet ready. You can use a Punch Down Tool for crimping, cutting, and stripping. Ports availability starts with 8, 12,16,24, 48 or more ports.

When you are setting up this panel, you must consider the quality and the design of the terminations of Cat5e patch cables. You need to check the plug type, whether it is booted or non-booted. Ask yourself whether you need to unplug the cables frequently. If so, you need to get a booted patch cable because it is resistant to breakage.

Cat5e Patch Panels adheres to  TIA/EIA 568 industry specifications and comes with both T-568A and T-568B wiring configurations. For the configuration, it has two types namely punch-down and feedthrough patch panel where Cat5e feedthrough patch panel is suited for high-density network systems.

3. Cat6 Patch Panel

If you are looking for rackmount or wall-mount patch panel, a Cat6 is a durable choice for a network connection of  10-Gigabit Ethernet.

Depending on suppliers, patch panels come in different types, features and designs. You can purchase a set with free cable management rings, or cable ties. However, mounting hardware are bought separately. Choose for the brand that meets all requirements and safety standards.

The 8, 16, 24 and 48 Port Cat 5e and Cat 6 Unshielded Patch Panel has a provision of  100 MHz connection to 8, 16, 24 and 48 Gigabit RJ-45 Ethernet ports.  Let’s look at one example below :

From Port Density

1. 6 Ports Patch Panel

A basic and ideal patch panel for home or small office installation. If you need very limited ports,  here are a few important features that you need to look for:

• It should provide excellent performance for data networks requiring maximum speed and bandwidth
• With crosstalk cancellation feature that rejects noise and unwanted signals for reduced return loss and better performance
• Durable enclosure for long-time use
• Exceeds ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2 Cat6 connecting hardware requirements
• Engineering to provide 110 IDC termination reducing installation time
• Includes both TIA-568A and TIA-568B color wiring diagrams
• Backwards compatible to all lower rated category components

2. 8 Ports Patch Panel

The 8-Port Panel like a Cat5e Unshielded Patch Panel has a  provision of 100 MHz connection to 8 x Gigabit RJ-45 Ethernet ports. It is suitable for home and small enterprise/business networking system applications. It provides cable management by avoiding cable clutters. These are the important features of an 8-port patch panel:

• 8 x 1000Base-T Gigabit RJ-45 ports
• Supports a 100 MHz connection
• Color-coded labeling for T568A and T568B wiring schemes
• IDC terminal blocks compatibility with 110 and Krone style connectors
• Cat. 5e transmission performance compliant with ANSI, TIA, and EIA 568 B.2 standards

3. 12 Ports Patch Panel

A 12-port patch panels has a ready 12 x Gigabit RJ-45 ports, equipped with  TIA/EIA 568-C.2 compliance performance suitable for home or small business or network applications.

4. 16 Ports Patch Panel

A 16-port Patch Panel supports 100Mhz connection which is ideal for Ethernet/Fast Ethernet/Gigabit Ethernet (1000Base-T) network applications. More ports allow more bandwidth in the future without re-cabling your network. Most panels come with color-coded labeling for T568A and 568B wiring schemes.

5. 24 Ports Patch Panel

The 24-port patch panel helps to make cable management, and troubleshooting works easier to your 24-port network switch connection. It supports 100Mhz connection which is ideal for Ethernet/Fast Ethernet/Gigabit Ethernet (1000Base-T) network applications. For durability and high performance, it must meet TIA 568A and ISO/IEC 11801 standards.

6. 48 Ports Patch Panel

This patch panel has 48 ports for 100 Mhz Ethernet or Gigabit Ethernet connection. Most units are1000 Base-T Gigabit Copper Ethernet and backward compatible with CAT 3, 4 and 5 cabling.For cable management purposes, labels are provided for naming ports correspondingly.

Keystone Patch Panel, Punch down Patch Panel and Feed-through Patch Panel, which is better?

• Keystone Patch Panel

This is the traditional, flat style of the ethernet patch panel with 24 ports and rack size of IU. The numbering and label on the front are very good for cable management to identify the cables that will be plugged in easily. This type allows you to have your color-coding customization.

• Punch down Patch Panel

You will find this version of an ethernet patch panel in Cat5e or Cat6 version. You can see RJ45 ports in the front where you connect the patch cables. The ports come with numbers and labels too. You can punch the ethernet cables on the module with the color markings when you view it on the rear side. Though this is the cheaper of the three, the installation requires efficiency and proper steps need to be followed for error-free set up.

In this video, you can see the right way on How to Punch Down a Network Ethernet Patch Panel:

• Feed-through Patch Panel

This type of ethernet patch panel is best for high density application. You can patch the cables without having to punch it down to the ports. It ensures clutter-free cable management because you do not need to punch long wires at the back of the panel especially when you need to repair it.

The network cables can be terminated efficiently and adequately through the inline series that are mounted on a frame. It is usually available in 24 ports, with 1U rack mount size and compliant with USOC, T568A, and T568B wirings. The cable management bars are detachable and allow easy patching with cat cables.

It also enables fast and hassle-free switches without the cables popping up or tangling at the back. If you are looking to save time punching down every wire, this is the type of ethernet patch panel that you need.

If you are wondering which is better to use, whether the Punch-Down type or the Feed-Through type, bear in mind that each goes with pros and cons.

If you are looking for speedy installation and error-free connection, it is better to choose the feed-through type although it is a little bit expensive. But with the time you can save, this is worth the price.

However, if you want the traditional way and you are an expert on punching down wires, then get the punch-down panel.

Cat6 Patch Panel: Shielded vs Unshielded

Electro Magnetic Interference or EMI is the interference that could significantly affect a network connection. Some of the common disturbances that create EMI are   cellular networks, ignition systems, mobile phones, lightning or solar flares.

What is better to use in high-EMI environment? A Cat6 Shielded Patch Panel is uqipped with a metal panel and shielded keystone jacks. Since we cannot guarantee a 100% EMI-free environment, using this type of panel wil eliminate and protect the performance of data transfers within your network. In a copper network system, a Cat6 Unshielded Patch Panel is widely used.

When using a Cat6 Patch Panel, there are two options available for patch cable type:

1. Shielded Twisted Pair Cables (STP)

– A shielded cable is supllemented with a foil that could block the EMI. When installed properly,     EMI and crosstalk are prevented or eliminated to guarantee a high-spped performance especially in larger networks like data centers. STP will diminish noises from outside sources like generators, machines, and medical equipment.A 10-G Ethernet is highly sensitive to EMI so shielded cables are preferred in this networks.  Because of its sensitivity, the use of shielded jacks and couplers during the installation is required. A shielded cable is bigger in diameter than an unshielded cable. Cost-wise, STP are more pricey too.

2. Unshielded Twisted Pair Cables (UTP)

– An unshielded cable , on the other hand, has faster transmission when EMI is nonexistent. It is way cheaper than STP cables, trusted for many years as a standard in cabling system, and easy to install. Because UTP is smaller, installing it in bulk or narrow spaces can be less of a hassle. It does not require high-maintenance so it is more convenient to use at home or office ethernet connections.

Need help with Shielded patch Panel Installation? Check out this video on this link:

Cat5e vs. Cat6 Patch Panels

Almost all patch panels have the same function, and the difference can be measured on what type of patch panel cable you’re going to use. The network speed(aside of course from a fast internet speed) is the game changer! Let’s say you already have hardware that is gigabit-capable, upgrading your old Cat5  to Cat5e or Cat6 cables is better. This could improve your data rate transfers.

Cat5e is an improved version of the Cat5 cabling system. It is faster with less interference and can support 1000Mbps gigabit speeds. Another important feature is that it cuts down crosstalk,  so you’ll get reliable and faster speed. On the other hand, Cat6 is the improved version of Cat5e. It is capable of 10-Gigabit speed.

Talking about patch panels, Cat5e  who meet the standards of TIA/EIA 568 industry specifications will improve and accelerate the performance of your network. Nowadays, both Cat5e and Cat6 are durable and competitive. In fact, they can even overreach A/EIA 568 industry specification on these Ethernet patch panels which are also capable of  T-568A and T-568B wiring configurations.

Loaded or Unloaded Patch Panel

Your decision on which type to use, whether it is a loaded or unloaded panel depends on the purpose of your set up. For example, if you have a wall mount rack unloaded patch panels are preferable in the sense that loaded patch panels won’t allow you to go behind the frame.

Cable management is more accessible with an unloaded patch panel in this case. Plus, you can install different cable categories. This works for a more personalized installation. In a pre-loaded patch panel, you can do away with the process of punching down the wires onto the ports. If you want an easy, hassle-free and direct access to the cables, then you must use a loaded patch panel.

What to be considered when choosing a patch panel?

1. Is it a wall mount enclosure or a rack mount enclosure?
2. What kind of fiber enclosure design do you need?
3. What is the size of the network rack?
4. How many ports do you need?
5. Is it for indoor or outdoor purpose?
6. What brand is reliable and long-lasting?
7. Does the patch panel include a splice tray?
8. Will you use a loaded or unloaded patch panel?

How Do You Use Patch Panel for Better Cable Management?

One of the vital functions of a patch panel is for better cable management. At home, especially if you have kids and smaller space, running cables can be inconvenient and prone to breakage or damages. In business, keeping everything uncluttered, safe and highly-organized can provide uninterrupted connections. Here are some more reasons:

• You can get a patch panel with an optional cable management bar. You can choose from the Simple type or T-type slot.
• The ID stripes are very useful for identifying port allocations.
• It provides a secure connection and labeling of various equipment or device. Putting on labels makes it convenient to identify signal flow or other technical troubleshooting in case there’s a network breakdown.
• Plug-and-play function helps you transfer, move, or change the port to the port of your choice while still keeping everything organized.

how to wire a Cat5e Patch Panel?

Step 1: Examine the 110-style punch down connectors on the back of the Cat5e patch panel.

The Cat5e patch panels should have 110 style insulation displacement connectors. It is necessary to acquire enough patch connectors on the patch panels to accommodate all of the incoming Ethernet cables.

Step 2: Remove the outer jacket from the end of each cable.

You should use the cable strippers to remove approximately 1 inch (25mm) of the outer jacket from the end of each cable, which ensures a nice clean fit into the patch panel without the risk of exposing too much cable and damaging it.

Step 3: Spread out the cable wires.

Once the outer jacket has been removed, you will see 4 twisted pairs of wires (a total of 8 wires) inside the Ethernet cable. The wires are color coded with 4 being solid colors, and 4 with a white stripe around the color. In order to successfully punch down the cables into the patch panel, you need to gently untwist the pairs and spread them out so that the 8 wires can be individually worked work with.

Step 4: Set the wires into the patch panel connectors.

Place all 8 wires into the 110 style connector of the patch panel in the patch panel outlet that is used to receive the incoming cables. You will see the color code labels on the patch panel, that indicates which wire is to be placed into which connector pin.

(Note: There are two color patterns, T568A and T568B. Make sure to terminate both sides of the cable on the same pattern used.)

Step 5: Begin terminating each wire.

Use a 110 punch down tool to firmly press down on each wire so that it is grasped by both sets of teeth of the insulation displacement connector. Punch down tool is with a cutting edge, you can use it to cut the excess wire of the Ethernet cables during the pushing process.

Step 6. Mark the terminated incoming cables with a label.

This step is optional but recommended. Mark the terminated incoming cables with a label indicating where the cables is from with the room or floor numbers. It will help you locate the system problems precisely or handing the futures upgrading projects.

Step 7. Use a cable tester to assure that you correctly terminated all the wires.

Now you can plug a short patch cable from the desired port on the patch panel to the closely located hub or switch. The other end of the wire would be terminated at a wall socket.

How to Buy A Fiber Optic Patch Panel?

When buying a Fiber Optic Patch Panel, you must consider the rack unit where you are going to install it. Depending on the height of the equipment, the rack size should be determined. Another thing is, how big the network is- what is it for, home or small business?  If you are looking and shopping online for patch panels, check the features. Here are recommendations when buying a patch panel for home use:

1. Unshielded Cat5e or Cat6 patch panel with 12 or 24 ports
2. Wall-mounted network patch/ Punch-down panel

For big enterprise or data center network:

1. Rack mounted shielded 48 port Cat6a or Cat7 patch panels
2. Feed-through type patch panel

In this video, you will understand and get an overview of a fiber optic patch panel.

Here’s another guide/check list for your buying options:

1. Enclosure Type

• Blank
• Fixed
• High-Density
• Loaded
• Unloaded
• Patch and Splice
• Rack Mount
• Wall Mount
• Slide-out
• Standard Density
• Swing-Out

2. Fiber Connector type

• LC Connector
• SC Connector
• ST Connector

3. Fiber Count

• 12 fibers
• 24 fibers
• 36 fibers
• 48 fibers
• 72 fibers
• 96 fibers
• 144 fibers

4. Fiber Type

• Fiber Savvy footprint
• LGX footprint
• OCC High Density footprint
• OCC Standard footprint 

5. Number of Adapter Panels

• 2 Panels
• 3 Panels
• 4 Panels
• 6 Panels
• 9 Panels
• 12 Panels
• 16 Panels
• 24 Panels

6. Number of Ports

• 6 Ports
• 8 Ports
• 12 Ports
• 16 ports
• 48 Ports
• 96 Ports
• ___ Port

7. Number of Splices

• 12 Splices
• 24 Splices
• 36 Splices
• 48 Splices
• 72 Splices
• 96 Splices
• 120 Splices
• 144 Splices
• 192 Splices
• 216 Splices
• 288 Splices
• 384 Splices
• 576 Splices

8. Rack Units

• IU
• 2U
• 3U
• 4U

Patch Panel vs Switch, Which is Better?

The question “Which works well, patch panel or switch?”- Let us first identify what a switch is. A switch or network switch,  or commonly called as hub, is used to connect devices on a computer network. You can plug in multiple data cables to its ports, and what it does is manage the flow of data by transmitting network packet to one or more devices for which it is intended.

In a network, a switch serves as the connection point for hosts at the edge of the network. For home or small network use, switches with no configuration or simply the plug-and-play types are used.

Switches are alternatives to patch panels only for some applications. What it can provide that a patch panel cannot is routing a signal to several destinations in a simultaneous way. Primarily, both are set up in a server rack in all data centers.

They look identical and similar when it comes to appearance because of the ports they have. A patch panel is significant for cable management, securing all cables and labeling them properly as desired. A switch, however, contains numbers of ethernet ports that connect all devices on a computer network so it can receive and forward data using packet switching.

How to Install Patch Panel and Switch?

1. Look for a conducive,  safe location.

The first thing to consider when installing a patch panel and the switch is the right location. Make sure that the work setting, environment, and the overall structure where you will set up the network is safe and with excellent access for repairs and maintenance.

2. Prepare the cables.

Study your installation plan and adequately check the length of the cables to be used. Identify the range, type, and if you are purchasing pre-terminated cords, get a high-quality material to avoid extra cost in the future.

3. Make a blueprint of the port connections.

Assign and check the ports assignment from the switch to the patch panel. This step will shorten installation time.

4. Mount the patch panel and switch and connect both.

You can now mount the patch panel and the switch to your network rack. After securing it in a durable rack, it’s time to execute the connection of cables from your blueprint. Patch the cables correctly by running the ethernet cables to its assigned jack.

5. Organize and label.

You can manage your cables by using horizontal and vertical arrangement. Tie the cables accordingly and assign a label. Each cable must have the same label on both ends.

Step 1: Attach the 24-port patch panel and 24-port switch to a rack-mounted floor stand in the wiring closet.

Step 2: Run the Ethernet cables from their jack locations out in the computer room. Each cable will come from a wall mounted jack that the installer has placed in the wall. They will all return to the wiring closet through a small hole to accommodate the wires.

Step 3: Connect the wires into the 24-port patch panel and use a punch-down tool to connect the wires to the appropriate slots on the patch panel. Once the wires are all attached, it is better to secure the wires in a bundle by using plastic zip ties.

Step 4: Label each jack location on the 24-port patch panel to designate which room is connected to that jack.

Step 5: Plug a patch cable into each port on the 24-port patch panel and plug the other end into the 24- port switch. These wires can be moved from port to port if needed to promote location changes to the network.

What are the functions of Ethernet Patch Panels?

• If you want a solution on how you can terminate cables coming from different areas or rooms and have it in one location, you need to use ethernet patch panels.
• If you want to upgrade your connection and thinking of expanding it in the future, this is a good investment.
• Helps you with quick and easy identification of cables that run through your wiring closet
• The best and efficient way for cable management and having neat and tidy installation around the house or workplace.
• Using an ethernet patch cable will allow convenient troubleshooting and wire repairs while keeping it intact and secure
• It will allow you to monitor, re-route, or switch connections to different ports without complicated installations and re-work.
• Using ethernet patch panel is cost effective as you do not need to upgrade and change all the time.

What are the types of Ethernet Patch Panels?

Ethernet Patch Panel is also referred to as RJ45 patch panels. This type of panels is used with copper cables, whether shielded and unshielded. Those patch cables are what we call the Cat5, Cat5a, Cat6, Cat6a, Cat7, and others. Many prefer to use these cables because of its durability and high performance when it comes to high speed data transfers.

1. Cat5 Patch Panel

It uses an Ethernet (RJ-45) cable. CAT 5 Patch Panels are ideal for Ethernet or Fast Ethernet/Gigabit Ethernet (1000Base-T) network applications. You can use a Punch Down Tool for crimping, cutting, and stripping.

Patch Panel cat5 is available with 8, 12,16,24,48 or more ports. The port numbers make cable organized and provides ease on troubleshooting or repairs. Because of the release of upgraded versions of this Category type,  Cat5 is rarely used.  Patch Panel cat5 will be a little bit hard to find suppliers who sell this version, so if you are still opting for this patch panel, you can go through Ebay or Amazon.

2. Cat5e Patch Panel

If you are considering an excellent solution to your Ethernet network applications, Cat5e patch panels deliver a steady 100Mhz connection to copper Gigabit switches. This type of panel is  1000Base-T Gigabit Copper Ethernet ready.

You can use a Punch Down Tool for crimping, cutting, and stripping. Ports availability starts with 8, 12,16,24, 48 or more ports. When you are setting up this panel, you must consider the quality and the design of the terminations of Cat5e patch cables.

You need to check the plug type, whether Patch Panel cat5e is booted or non-booted. Ask yourself whether you need to unplug the cables frequently. If so, you need to get a booted patch cable because it is resistant to breakage.

Cat5e Patch Panels adheres to  TIA/EIA 568 industry specifications and comes with both T-568A and T-568B wiring configurations. For the configuration, it has two types namely punch-down and feedthrough patch panel where Cat5e feedthrough patch panel is suited for high-density network systems.

Another specification of a Cat5e Ethernet Panel is that you can purchase a wall-mount version with a cover. This type is directly mounted to the wall with the front cable plugs.

The cover is like a shelter that serves protection when terminating wires. Since it has labels, you can quickly identify what cable is assigned on each port. Like the Cat5 versions, this can support bandwidths of up to 100MHz, while withstanding interference present even in a harsh environment.

A Cat5e Feed-Through patch panel comes in 1u or 2U ( up to 4U), unshielded ports. The feed-through connectors ensure a hassle-free installation and easy cable management.

If you are looking for a high-performance quality for your home or office network, you can get the 48-port panel with RJ45 plugs on both sides. You can use it over voice or data transmission of up to 1Gb.

3. Cat6 Patch Panel

If you are looking for rackmount or wall-mount patch panel, a Cat6 is a durable choice for a network connection of  10-Gigabit Ethernet.

Depending on the number of ports that you need or the type, you can get one from a supplier that is full-packed with excellent features such as T568A and T568B labels, and Dual IDC terminals for 110 or Krone impact tools.

Cat6 Ethernet Patch Panel comes in different variations of ports.  Some brands of Cat6 RJ45 Panels have heavy duty ports (12,24, 48…) and backwards compatible with the Cat5a Patch Panel. patch panel cat 6 is ideally installed in a 19-inch rack with the standard height of 2U.  For cable management, all ports are numbered  with color coded T568A and T568B wiring specification and standard.  patch panel cat 6 is applicable for 10-Gigabit Ethernet connection and has a compatibility feature for with 23  to 26 AWG solid wires. You can punch down the cables on available ports with ease and make them all organized.

The upgraded version is the Cat6A Ethernet Patch Panel where several variations are available like the following:

• Shielded Cat6A Ethernet Patch Panel Rack Mount Size 1U, 24-Ports or 48-Ports
• Shielded Cat6A Ethernet Patch Panel Strain Relief Support Size 1U, 24-Ports

What features should you look for when looking for a Cat6A Ethernet Patch Panel?

• Superior quality shielded CAT6A Patch Panel
• CAT6A shielded Keystone jacks’ cable-compatibility
• Suitable For 22-26 AWG Stranded & Solid CAT6A Cable
• 19″ Rack and Enclosure Mount
• Meets TIA/EIA 568A & 568B Compliant Standards
• UL Listed
• Equipped for Gigabit connection/network

Cat6 Ethernet Patch Panel comes in different variations of ports.  Some brands of Cat6 RJ45 Panels have heavy duty ports (12,24, 48…) and backwards compatible with the Cat5a Patch Panel. patch panel cat 6 is ideally installed in a 19-inch rack with the standard height of 2U.

For cable management, all ports are numbered  with color coded T568A and T568B wiring specification and standard.  patch panel cat 6 is applicable for 10-Gigabit Ethernet connection and has a compatibility feature for with 23  to 26 AWG solid wires. You can punch down the cables on available ports with ease and make them all organized.

Category 6, commonly called as Cat 6, is an improved cable standard for Gigabit Ethernet and other network protocols backward compatible with Cat5e standards. It offers more solution to adhere to the harsh environment due to interference, crosstalk and system noise compared to Cat 5 and Cat 5e. It provides an absolute performance of up to 250 MHz with the Cat6 cable specification.

There are different variations of Ethernet patch panels. The Wall-Mount and Rack-Mount 6 Patch Panels have lasting durability and required for applications that meet maximum speed and bandwidth. Some types that you can buy from suppliers are:

• 24 Port Cat6 Shielded Patch Panel
• 24-Port 1U Rackmount STP Shielded Cat6a Feedthrough Patch Panel
• 12-Port Cat6/Cat5 Wall-Mount Vertical 110 Patch Panel
• 24 Port Cat6 Non-Shielded Patch Panel

Is it possible to use a Cat6a Cable on a Cat6 Ethernet Patch Panel?

Networking works easier with the use of ethernet patch panels and it’s equivalent patch cables. However, you may wonder if it is also possible to use a Cat6a cable to a Cat6 patch panel without having connection problems. Cat6a is the upgraded version of Cat6.

If you will plug the Cat6a cable to the panel, it will surely fit because it uses the same RJ45 connectors. However, the size of the Cat6a cable is a little bit bigger than that of Cat6. The tendency is, the cable will bend. If a cable is bended, it is not guaranteed to perform in its best way possible.

Same goes with the question if you can use a Cat5e to Cat6 and vice versa. Both can fit into the ports of the panel but there is a difference in the wire gauge of the two cables.

The Cat6 cables are thicker than the Cat5 cables. The spline that helps to minimize or eliminate crosstalk on the Cat6 cables make it bigger than Cat5 cables. It is better to use the designated patch cables to the same patch panel so it can save you time and effort on your installation.

EMI or Electro Magnetic Interference Explained

What is EMI? An electrical noise coming from machines, electric devices, or generators that interferes with the processing of data in a network is called EMI.

keystone patch panel causes a device to malfunction because it disturbs the normal operation so it can degrade, interrupt or lose the signal.

Some common occurrence caused by EMI is audio on radio or video on television disturbance when an aircraft passes by, feedback or noise on microphones when a cellphone is close to it or when you are using it.

EMI or also called as radio frequency interference (RFI). That is why, in a network, keystone patch panel is essential to use a high-quality of patch cables and ethernet patch panels to make sure that there is no disturbance, or at least, will be lessened, if the environment has a high RFI factor.

On the other hand, crosstalk is the interference caused by the wrong wiring in the cable.

When another wire disrupts a signal in one coil, DIFVAN keystone patch panel causes the data to be corrupt in your Local Area Network. Crosstalk can come from the following sources:

• Televisions
• Fluorescent lights
• Motors
• Air cleaners
• Generator
• Motion sensors
• Radios
• Electronic device

What is the Cabling Standards?

• EIA/TIA 568A– Became the first standard published (1991) and is the US standard
• ISO/IEC 11801– This is the International standard for structured cabling systems.
• CENELEC EN 50173– Known as the European standard for cabling (the British version is BS EN 50173).

How to Punch Down Cat6 into Patch Panel?

1. Prepare the cables. This includes getting the desired length of the cable that you need.
2. After cutting the cable on the desired length, peel off about 3 to 6 inches of the protective jacket from the end using a stripping tool.
3. Once you remove the cable jacket, cut the plastic spine and separate the wire pairs. Before you cut the spine, make sure that you pull the spine and fold the wire pairs.
4. Go to the patch panel and put the wires onto the desired slot. Ensure that it is firmly attached before you terminate the wires.
5. Take a punch-down tool and punch the wires onto the panel. Cut off the wire’s end and check if it’s punched down neatly and correctly.
6. Get a cable tester and check the wires. You can then clip the wires to avoid tangling and slipping.

What types are Ethernet Connector?

Highly-recommended Ethernet Connector Features:

• 100%  compliant with EIA/TIA 568B.2-10 and IEC 60603-7-51 standards for CAT6a speeds
• Works with most standard crimp tools
• Suitable for termination of solid or stranded wires with a conductor/insulation OD of 0.037″-0.042″

Cat5e RJ45 Connectors  – Cat5e RJ45 connectors are crimp plugs used for ethernet patch cables.  It has a superior two-prong contact designed to work for solid and stranded conductors. It is used for LAN connection, ethernet network connection, standard ethernet wirings, and gigabit connections. You can get some shielded types which are suitable for EMI/RFI prone environments. It is excellent for maintaining the ground connection. These connectors are bought per piece or come in packs depending on the supplier.

Cat6 RJ45 Connectors  – Cat6 RJ45 connectors are crimp plugs for cat6 patch cables. It comes in crystal clear colors with superior two-prong contact designed to work for solid and stranded conductors. It also features a snagless strain relief boot that gives stable and lasting protection for cables. It is widely used in LAN applications, home or business wirings for gigabit ethernet installations.

Cat6a RJ45 Connectors – Category 6a rated RJ45 are crimp plugs with gold-plated contacts suitable for reliable performance in a Gigabit/Ethernet-rated network. This is best for 10-Gig systems and works significantly for both solid and stranded conductors. The wire aligner and load bar are designed for easy termination.

These connectors are transparent in color, corrosion-resistant, and improves the signal connection. High-quality ensures higher and excellent transmission speeds.

Shielded RJ45 Plugs with Strain Relief – Cat 6 shielded RJ45 connector provides high performance which allows users to perform factory grade terminations in the field. It is recommended for a complete Cat 6A shielded 10 Gigabit network system. These are widely used in applications for cable assemblies and installation in data centers or big enterprise.

The metallic strain relief feature ensures maximum cable retention and shielding protection against crosstalks. It is compatible with solid and stranded cables. It is applicable for EMI/RFI-prone environment. High speed networks require EIA568 Compliance to this kind of plug. This plugs mostly work with an RJ45 Crimp tool.

Pull Through RJ45 Modular Plugs  

The pull through RJ45 plug terminations is designed for the conductors to be pulled entirely through the connector and out the front.  Termination then becomes easy by using these plugs. By using a crimp tool, you can cut the wires, terminate the pins, before you crimp the strain relief. Doing this will keep the twisted pairs within a distance from the plug.

This way, you can quickly identify the wirings while eliminating small fragments during termination. You can get a shielded or non-shielded type of Cat 5e or Cat6. You need a modular wire-crimper tool for this connector.

What are patch panel Crimping Tools?

1. RJ11/RJ45 Crimper –  This Crimping tool works with many Ethernet or telephone cable and has the following features:

• Universal Professional LAN Cable Crimper tool suitable for 8P/RJ-45 and 6P/RJ-12, RJ-11 Cable
• Multifunctional networking tool/ ratcheting Crimping Tool for good quality during separation, clamping, pressing, stripping, and cutting of cables
• Ethernet Cable Crimping Tools will crimp 8P,6P,6C and 4C connectors and has a stripper for Round cat5 and cat6 cables
• The diagram below shows how to pinch a cable properly

1. Modular Crimp Tool

A modular crimp tool allows better contact in the terminal strip while providing proper alignment and assembly. The purpose of this tool is to crimp a new modular plug. It is used for cutting, stripping, and pinching of data and voice cables. This is the tool you want to use if you’re going to crimp 6 and 8 position modular connectors like RJ11, RJ12 or RJ45.

2. Ratchet Modular Crimp Tool

This type of tool is used for termination of phone and data cables. It is for cutting, stripping, and crimping of flat phone cables and round UTP cable/ STP cable for standard RJ11/12 and RJ45 WE/SS-Style Plugs. The best feature and function of this tool is the full-ratcheted mechanism plus the stripper for the round wire.

3. Cable Tester and Crimping Tool

A very convenient tool so you can check twisted pair Ethernet cable to ensure damage-free wiring. It automatically tests cables and at the same time, crimps the cable. This is a good bundle, and a must have tool. A cable tester is a device that can be used to test the strength of a cable and watch out for the connectivity-related issue. With it, you will know if you were able to set up the cable properly.

Keystone Jacks

RJ45 Keystone modular jacks are punch down keystone for ethernet patch panels. It has a snap-in clip for secure cable connection and eligible for a cat six performance in a 10-Gigabit network. These jacks are also compatible in any jack wall plates or surface mount boxes. For those labelled as “Cat 6 Performance”, it has the following features:

• Impact resistant plastic
• Labels for T568A and T568B wiring standards
• Gold-plated contacts
• IDC modules fit Krone or 110 impact tools
• 90-degree termination
• Strain-relief dual IDC covers
• Impact resistant construction

How to terminate a Patch Panel

Strip the cable of its protective outside jacket about 3–6 inches (7.6–15.2 cm) from the end. This can be done with the cabling scissors by applying pressure from the scissors to the cable and rotating the scissors around the cable. After you have punctured the cables jacket, you should be able pull the jacket off easily leaving exposed wires.

Stripping the cable can cut and damage the wires at the area that we cut the cable so we want to expose about 6 more inches of fresh wires. Most twisted pair Cat5, Cat5e and Cat6 cables have a small string inside the cable to assist with this.

If your cable has the small string, make a small cut in the jacket of the cable, making sure not to touch any wires, and then use the string to pull towards the fresh end of the cable exposing about 6 inches (15.2 cm) of cable. Cut the string after you have enough exposed cable.

If your cable does not have the small string, make a small cut in the jacket described above and gently pull all of the wires together in one hand and pull the jacket in the opposite direction.

All Cat5,Cat5e and Cat6 cables follow a standard color pattern for the individual wires. Blue, Orange, Green and Brown. There are two wires per color. White/Blue and Blue, White/Orange and Orange, White/Green and Green, White/Brown and Brown. If you look at the back side of your patch panel, you will see the corresponding colors where you will terminate the cable to.

Note: There are two color patterns, T568A and T568B. Make sure to terminate both sides of the cable on the same pattern. If you have already terminated one side of the cable, look to see what pattern was used! If you have not already terminated, choose a standard that you will always use. Both patterns will produce the same results.

After choosing the correct pattern, choose the port on the patch panel you wish the cable to connect to. It is general practice to terminate in ascending order so start at the lowest number. First cable should be terminated to the 1st port and so on.

Untwist the wires completely to the jacket. Place the wires into the appropriate color slot on the patch panel. Make sure to place the wires as tightly as possible in the slots in regard to the jacket. There should be as little exposed and untwisted wire as possible to keep the signal strength as high as possible. Make sure to place the White/Blue in the White/Blue spot and not the solid Blue spot. The White/Color wire is not the same as the solid color.

Terminate each wire. After all the wires are in the correct spot and double checked to make sure as little amount of exposed wires will be left as possible, use the punch down tool with the 110 blade and terminate each wire individually. The 110 blade will fully cover the wire connector on the patch panel. Push down until the tool clicks and cuts the end of the wire off. Repeat this step if the wire was not fully cut.

Secure the cable to the patch panel with a zip tie if there is a slot or tab for a zip tie.

Use a cable tester to assure that you correctly terminated all the wires.

Here is a video for your references:

Warnings:

• Keep your fingers out of the way when using a 110-cut blade on a punch down tool. One slip and you could get a nasty wound.
• Do not terminate the cable using the possibly damaged wires. Make sure to strip an extra 3–6 inches (7.6–15.2 cm) and use that section when terminating.

What You Will Need:

Punch Down Tool with a 110 Blade

Cabling Scissors

Solid Wire Cat3, Cat5, Cat5e or Cat6 Cables to Terminate

Appropriate Patch Panel for Cable to Terminate – Ex: Cat5e Cable should be terminated to a Cat5e Patch Panel.

Cable Tester – Optional but heavily encouraged.

What are the types of Ethernet Cables

In our previous article, we discussed about the functions of cable patch panels along with the different types. For good cable management, a patch panel will enable you to have a clean and plug-and-play set-up.  Ethernet panels protect your cables from the environment factors like EMI or Electro Magnetic Interference or RFI. The industry standard is called 110 IDC Blocks to ensure a fast and easy installation. This article will cover all about Ethernet Patch Panels and cable installations.

What are the types of Patch Cables?

Choosing durable and high-quality cables is vital because most of the trouble happening is due to damaged, faulty or low-quality cables.

Example of low-quality cables is those that use copper clad aluminum and copper clad steel. When used, this results in low-transmission rate and increase in data loss.

Cat 5E Ethernet Cable – This network cable is suitable for fast/gigabit ethernet.  It can support a bandwidth of up to 35 MHz made of bare copper conductors for proper flow of fast and reliable, stable signal.

This is perfect for indoor use such as applications on your computer, gaming consoles, printers, IP cameras, VOIP phones, and other communication devices.

For high performance, it must meet the required ANSI TIA/EIA 568-C.2 standards, are RoHS compliant, and ETL listed.

Cat 6 Ethernet Cable – A 24-AWG, RJ45 Ethernet Patch/Network Cable will provide high-performance connectivity for LAN network components for your devices like personal computers, computer servers, various printers, network routers or boxes, Voice-over phones, and media players,  or other communication devices.

patch panel rack goes with a higher bandwidth than the Cat5E ethernet cable for a 10-gigabit ethernet.

It supports up to 550 MHz, ensuring a high-speed data transfer for all server applications and connection devices like video surveillance cameras, HD online video streaming or cloud computing applications.

This patch cable is made of copper wires which is a major requirement in communication cables and passes the UL Code 444 compliance.

Cat 6A Ethernet Cable– An upgraded version of the Cat6 version, this patch cable has SSTP/SFTP (Screened Foiled Twisted Pair) shielding that can prevent electromagnetic interference (EMI) and reduce crosstalk noise.

The shielded connectors serve as corrosion-resistance to maintain durability and secure the connection. patch panel rack has a high bandwidth of up to 550 MHz to ensure a high-speed data transfer.

Cat 7 Ethernet Cable– This patch cable passed for a 10 GBPS data speed in compliance with ANSI/TIA/EIA 568-B, 2-1. It is designed for use with 10 Gigabit Ethernet and can provide the performance of up to 600MHz with speed of up to 10Gbps.

This works significantly with Voice Over IPs, high-definition streaming and gaming applications, and other communication devices. They are available in round or flat variations with double shielding features for longer lifespan and durability.

Unshielded Twisted Pair Cables (UTP)– This cable consists of four pairs of color-coded wires twisted around each other.

The purpose of this is to avoid interference or crosstalk. An unshielded cable, on the other hand, has faster transmission when EMI is nonexistent. panduit patch panel is way cheaper than STP cables, trusted for many years as a standard in the cabling system, and easy to install.

Because UTP is smaller, installing it in bulk or narrow spaces can be less of a hassle. It does not require high-maintenance, so it is more convenient to use at home or office ethernet connections.

Shielded Twisted Pair Cables (STP)– A shielded cable is very similar with a UTP having four wires and is supllemented with a foil that could block the EMI.

When installed properly, EMI and crosstalk are prevented or eliminated to guarantee a high-spped performance especially in larger networks like data centers. STP will diminish noises from outside sources like generators, machines, and medical equipment.

A 10-G Ethernet is highly sensitive to EMI, so shielded cables are preferred in these networks.  Because of its sensitivity, the use of shielded jacks and couplers during the installation is required.

A shielded cable is bigger in diameter than an unshielded cable. Cost-wise, STP is more pricey too.

Summary of the Guide for Patch Panel:

Cable Patch Panels come in different types and variations, depending on your set up scheme. It can be available from 6 up to hundreds of ports that are widely used in home, small office or data centers. Patch panels are used in optic fiber or copper cabling systems. Ethernet patch panels are designed for specific cable like Cat5e and Cat6 shielded or unshielded cables. These panels meet the gigabit speed  and pass the T568A/T568B standard for high performance.

Patch panels can also come in horizontal or vertical type, snap-in , 10” or 19” size. The benefits one could get when using it are indispensable because it provides a simple, quick-fix, and long-time use. Incorporating it in your network will produce better network performance  and shield against the interference that are present in the environment. Your decision to get a greater number of ports will rely on your future expansion project. Nevertheless, maintaining a good location for your rack cabinet where all this equipment will reside can secure a damage-free patch panel.

Are you overwhelmed with the information provided in this article? Do you need clarifications and suggestions for your current network setup? Worry not! We are a reliable and dependable supplier of Patch Panel Cables. We can help and assist you with your installation and general queries to successfully install your network system.

Contact us via Email: info@difvan.com or contcat me via Whatsapp & Wechat: 0086-139 8977 1240