Tag Archives: ethernet patch panel

Introduction to Fiber Patch Panel

People always say that the patch panel is the “unsung hero” in the data center. It’s pretty vivid. Because there is no doubt that the patch panel is an indispensable component of the simple and tidy cable management. Usually, it is used in two kinds of cabling system, fiber and copper cabling systems. Therefore, it can be divided into two main types: the fiber optic patch panel and Ethernet patch panel. In this post, I will introduce the former one. For more information about Ethernet patch panel, read How to Select the Suitable Copper Patch Panel?

What Is the Fiber Patch Panel?

The fiber patch panel is used to terminate fiber optic cables and make it accessible to individual fiber optic cable for cross connection. A basic fiber optic panel is typically made of metal. It contains the adapter panels, the connector couplers, and a splice tray. The fiber optic cables connect to the adapter panels through the couplers. The splice tray allows cables to be neatly arranged in the panel.

Fiber Patch Panel Types

Based on different standards, the fiber panel can be categorized into different types. Here, we will introduce its types according to the mounting type, loaded state, and port counts.

  • According to the mounting type, there are rack mount and the wall mount fiber patch panels. The former one usually holds the fiber optic cables horizontally and it looks like a drawer. Designed in 1U, 2U, 4U size, it can hold up to 288 or even more fibers. In addition, it can be mounted onto 19″and 23″standard relay racks. While the latter one is used in enclosed wall mounting. It can be mounted to any wall easily. FS.COM offers FHD wall mount fiber panels which have the designs of 2 door 2 adapters and 2 door 4 adapters as the option. It’s usually equipped with high density cassettes fixed on walls. For more details, you can refer to Introduction of FHD Wall Mount Patch Panel.

rack and wall mount fiber patch panel

Figure 1: Rack and Wall Mount Fiber Patch Panel

  • According to the loaded state, the fiber panel can be classified into the loaded and unloaded ones. The former means that it has been loaded with adapter panels or cassettes. The latter means that it is loaded with nothing. Users can install adapter panels or cassettes depending on their needs, customizing their own patch panels.
  • According to the port counts, the fiber panel can be categorized into many types ranging from 12, 24, 48 to 288 and even more. Actually, there is no limit to the count of the port on the panel. FS.COM can provide 12 port patch panel, 24 port patch patch, and 48 port patch panel.

Benefits of Using Fiber Patch Panel

The fiber panel provides a convenient way to manage fiber optic cables. There are three main benefits of using it.

  • Convenience

Using the fiber panel, users can easily replace the fiber optic cables and change the order of fiber optic cables according to their needs. Besides, they don’t need to look around for ports of the devices on the rack because the fiber patch panel groups all ports.

  • Reducing Cable Congestion

Using the fiber panel, users can reduce the cable clutter and confusion. The fiber optic cables will be easily organized and labeled. Users can manage their cables in any direction.

  • Reducing Wear of Devices

Using the fiber panel, users will complete all the connections on the panel. They won’t frequently plug or unplug the cables directly from the devices. Therefore, wear on the ports of expensive networking devices like switches will be reduced.

Conclusion

All in all, the fiber patch panel is such a useful device in the data center, especially in the high-density data center. After reading this post, I think you’ve had a general understanding of the fiber panel. FS.COM can provide varied cable management solutions. Welcome contact us if you have any needs about this, just by visiting www.fs.com.

Patch Panel Labels

Data centers are the repositories in today’s online world, and they’re also regarded as the heart that may pump the lifeblood of one’s business. Inside the data center, numerous issues may break the center, so if anything goes wrong, so does the business. Wrong cabling is one of the issues that may be ignored by most people. But with patch panel labels, technicians can simplify troubleshooting and increase management efficiency.

Label Standard

Clear labeling is the groundwork of a professionally installed network system. There is a set of standards named TIA/EIA-606 that aims at fully addressing the administrative demand for telecommunication equipment, cabling system, and other telecommunication infrastructure. For example, the original TIA/EIA-606-A have defined the general administration, but haven’t had specific needs of data center’s design and installation. Another version, TIA/EIA-606-B is backward compatible with the traditional version A, with a purpose of being a universal labeling standard that applies to all types of premises. And in the set of standards, they have explicitly stated that in one building especially the multiple telecommunication spaces, hardware like patch panels, IDC blocks, and copper or fiber cables should be labeled and recorded.

Importance of Patch Panel Labels

Achieving traceability is the main reason for using patch panel labels. Within one server rack, fiber optic patch panel is commonly used for horizontal cable management that acts as the unit to connect and route circuits for monitoring, interconnecting and testing. Patch panel labels include the patch panel identifier. If practical, each port of a patch panel should be labeled. Using patch panel label accelerates the traceability of the relevant cable links. It helps when the technicians need to find the specific cables.

Labels on Patch Panel

Labels can be used for all patch panels. Here is an example, 24 port blank keystone patch panel on FS.COM, which permits users to create a mix connection of voice, data, and video. The empty design of this Ethernet patch panel makes it possible to accommodate various snap-in jacks, so the users can insert cat5e or cat6 adapters based on actual needs. Beyond the empty port, there are white plates where you can paste the adhesive labels to mark the cables. Users can quickly find the specific cable that needs to change or upgrade, increasing working efficiency. Some adhesive labels are also available in FS.COM: P-type and winding type cable label.keystone patch panel

P-type Adhesive Label

FS.COM provides P-type cable adhesive label paper in red color. It’s a simple identification that is resistant to water, oil, and scratch. Besides, it will not generate debonding in a low-temperature environment and easy to peel off.

patch panel labels

Winding type Adhesive Label

Winding type cable label from FS.COM uses an easy wrap-around design, providing a clear and simple identification. With the design of non-slip, it can be pasted on patch panels for cables records and placement instructions. For the best practice, all labeling should be visible especially doing the maintenance.

winding type patch panel label

Conclusion

Patch panel labels are the effective-cost solution to solve network operation breakdown. When it comes to modifying, repairing and upgrading anything, labeling makes it convenient for your job. For more input on the data center, get in touch with the experts at FS.COM.