Patch Panels

The requirements for high density patch panels will not change with the use of 10 Gigabit Ethernet cabling systems. The density of the cables and jacks at the patch panel is at its highest in the cabling solution and is often the cause of cross talk issues. With the new draft Class Ea standard for 10 Gigabit Ethernet the AXTLK generated at the patch panel is a major factor in both testing and system performance.

The use of UTP systems will require the accurate measurement of AXTLK at the patch panel. To measure AXTLK it will require all-about one testing between all of the cables at the patch panel. Clearly this number of tests is cost prohibitive so the use of a fully shielded patch panel system is paramount. The 3M™ Volition™ Structured Cabling System uses a fully earthed patch panel to assist in the mitigation of AXTLK by providing the earth continuity for the 3M Volition OCK10-S8 Jack, 3M Volition VOL-SFL4 Cables and Patch Cords. With a screen shielded cable, patch panel and patch cord solution there is no requirement to test for AXTLK.

Classic Panel

3M Volition Classic Patch Panels are modular and can accommodate up to 24 RJ45 ports in one unit of rack space (1RU). Their modular design makes them easy to install on site in 19" racks and incorporate a rear cable management bar. The use of the 3M Classic Patch Panel is required in shielded systems such as the SFTP and FTP solutions to securely anchor the cable and earth points. The 3M Volition Classic Patch Panel uses the 3M Volition Colour Caps to secure the RJ45 Jacks into the keystone ports. Pre-printed labelling is available.

Screening

A cable screen creates a barrier between the external electromagnetic environment and the transmission line of the cable pairs inside the screen. The performance of the screen depends on its design, the material from which it is constructed and on the way it is connected to the local earth. For screened solutions (SFTP and FTP) the cable screens should be continuous from one end of the link to the other and should be connected at both ends to the shield or in the case of a FTP solution, the drain connection of the RJ-45 jack. The cable screen should be applied over the 360 degrees of the cable sheath.

UTP Panel

An economy patch panel is provided for Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) solutions where earth continuity is not required. The 3M Volition Economy UTP Patch Panel is provided for use with separate rear mounted cable management and the OCK5E-U8 and OCK6-U8 Jacks. The use of the 3M Volition Colour Caps is required with the 3M Volition Economy UTP Patch Panel.