What is Patch Panel and Types

What is a Patch Panel?

Patch panel is an important component in the structured cabling system, used as a connecting device for telecom and network communication. Its main function is to connect, manage, and distribute cables to connect various parts of the network, thereby achieving communication functions. It has been widely used in networks, telecoms, data centers, etc.

Types of Patch Panel

Generally speaking, patch panels can be divided into three types based on the cables used, namely Ethernet patch panels, fiber patch panels, and coaxial patch panels.

Ethernet Patch Panel

Ethernet patch panel, also known as copper patch panel or Lan patch panel, is a type of patch panel used for connecting and managing twisted pair network cables.

Ethernet patch panels can also be divided into several types based on different factors.

By Ethernet Cable Category

Cat3 / Cat5 / Cat5E / Cat6 / Cat6A / Cat7 / Cat7A / Cat8 Patch Panel

These Lan patch panel is designed and manufactured according to different transmission rates, providing excellent performance for high speed LANs.

At present, the most commonly used types on the market are Category 5e, 6, and 6A patch panels.

By Ethernet Cable Structure

Unshielded / Shielded Patch Panel

There are two types of twisted pair network cables: shielded and unshielded, which need to be matched with shielded or unshielded Ethernet patch panels in applications.

The price of unshielded patch panels is cheaper than that of shielded patch panels, and they are suitable for general wiring environments. The shielded patch panel can effectively shield against electromagnetic interference and is suitable for working environments with high electromagnetic interference level.

By Whether the Port is Loaded

Pre-loaded / Unloaded Keystone Patch Panel

Pre-loaded patch panels have specific types of connectors installed during the manufacturing process, providing faster installation, convenient deployment, and more consistent connection quality.

While the blank keystone patch panel provides a set of empty ports for users to install connectors according to their needs.

By Connection Type

RJ11 / RJ12 / RJ45 Patch Panel

Copper patch panels can loaded with different types of ports based on the connection requirements of different network devices and applications.

RJ45 is the most common socket type used to connect Ethernet devices, while RJ11 and RJ12 are typically used for traditional telephone devices.

Fiber Patch Panel

Fiber patch panel, also known as optical distribution frame (ODF), are suitable for single-mode and multimode fiber wiring and play a role in fiber optic connection and distribution in fiber optic networks.

By Installation Method

Rack Mount / Wall Mount Fiber Patch Panel

Fiber optic patch panels can be divided into rack mounted and wall mounted types. The height of rack mount ODF is usually from 1U to 4U, used for standard 19 inch rack or network cabinet installation. And the wall mount optical distribution frame refers to a fiber optic enclosure that can be installed on the wall, which can save space.

By Whether Loaded with Adapter Panel

Loaded / Unloaded ODF

Loaded fiber optic patch panels refer to those already loaded with adapter panels and fiber splice trays, which can simplify installation and provide consistent connection quality.

Unloaded ODFs require users to choose adapter types and customize installation according to specific needs, providing greater flexibility.

By Connection Type

SC / LC / FC / ST / MPO / MT-RJ / E2000 / DIN Fiber Optic Patch Panel

According to different connection requirements, the port on the adapter panel of ODF can be made to suitable for SC, LC, FC, ST, DIN, MT-RJ…

Coaxial Patch Panel

A coaxial patch panel is a device used to manage and connect coaxial cables, guiding coaxial cables from various source devices to target devices. It is typically used in applications such as television and video surveillance.

Features of Patch Panels

Management and Organization

Patch panels provide a centralized point of management and organization that simplifies network cabling, reduces the risk of cable confusion and misconnections, and facilitates troubleshooting and maintenance.

Flexibility and Scalability

Patch panels enable flexible and scalable network configurations, allowing connections to be quickly changed and adjusted to suit different network environments.

Simplified Troubleshooting

By clearly marking and organizing connections, affected cables or connection points can be quickly identified and necessary maintenance and repairs can be carried out.

Reliability

Patch panels help maintain reliable network connections, ensure consistent termination of cables, and reduce the risk of loose connections or accidental network cable disconnections.

Gcabling Patch Panels

Gcabling manufacture and supply different styles of Lan patch panels and fiber optic patch panels. Here we list a few best-selling patch panels.

Standard Copper Patch Panel

Standard Fiber Patch Panel

Customize Your Patch Panels