Patch Panels

A patch panel, patch bay, patch field or jack field is a device or unit featuring a number of jacks, usually of the same or similar type, for the use of connecting and routing circuits for monitoring, interconnecting, and testing circuits in a convenient, flexible manner.

There are many advantages of using patch panels compared to attempting to run cabling products from each device directly into the central piece of the network hardware. By using a structured wiring patch panel, it gives you flexibility and prevents the need to re-run cables or swap equipment places around if you need to change something or if something breaks.

The switch routes all data to & from PC's, internet modem, server etc so that data can be exchanged between devices. A patch panel has a cable from say a port by a desk connected to it. You then patch it to a switch to connect the desk port to your network.

Also known as a patch bay or patch field, a patch panel is a simple, organized and easily managed solution used in connecting multiple computers, telecommunications devices, and external hardware to one another. Each port connects by means of an ethernet or patch cable, and sends data to an outgoing port location

1.Determine where the patch panel and switch should be installed and patch panel installation cost.

2. Build or purchase pre-terminated patch cords.

3. Map out the ports.

4.Mount the patch panel and switch.

5.Connect the patch panel to the switch.

6.Install cable management.

7.Label cable.