A patch panel consists of an
array of ports. Each port – via a patch cable – connects to another port located
elsewhere. Distribution panels, also known as fiber optic patch panels, offer
you access to the cable’s individual fibers, making it easier for you to terminate fiber optic cables and allowing
for cross-connection. Here is why fiber optic patch panels are a better choice-
·
No need
to hunt for input ports
Patch panels allow you to group all
of the input jacks/ports into one location, which means, devices mounted in
racks can be connected without needing to hunt for input ports behind the rack
or instrument with a flashlight.
·
Saves
networking equipment and switches from damage
Because all connections are made
with the patch panel, using fiber optic patch panels also allow you to save
wear and tear on the input ports of your networking equipment, such as servers
and panel-mounted switches.
·
All
changes can be made at one place
Patch panels make it extremely
easy for operators to connect multiple devices in different orders. This allows
you to make all of the changes at one place.
Should you get rack mount, wall mount or slider patch panels?
Depending on the need, you can
select from a rack mount, wall mount, or slider fiber optic patch panel. Typically,
the rack mount panels are designed in 1U, 2U, 4U sizes, and capable of holding fibers
horizontally. They can be mounted onto standard relay racks and can easily hold
up to 288 or even more fibers. There are also sliding panels which give
engineers– an easy access to the fibers inside, however, they are a bit more on
the expensive side. Last but not the least, you can also go for wall mount
fiber patch panels. They are easy to mount on any wall using the internal
mounting holes.
