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ITGlossary · Communication and monitoring
Patch Panel
A rack panel with a row of ports where network cables terminate, so connections can be organised and changed easily.
Technical level:Basic
In a network rack, the structured cabling coming from the wall outlets terminates on a patch panel, usually 1U high with 24 or 48 RJ45 ports. From there, short patch cords connect each port to the switch or other equipment.
This way the permanent cabling stays put and every change is made easily at the front of the rack. Clear labelling of each port, matching it to the outlets, and using the same category as the cables (e.g. Cat6 or Cat6A) make maintenance and fault-finding much faster.
A practical tip: fit cable managers between the patch panel and the switch, and leave space in the rack for the UPS and for airflow, so that a tangle of cables does not block ventilation.
Related articles
Related terms
- Hardwired (Terminal Block) ConnectionPermanent connection of the UPS input or output by an electrician, with cables screwed into a terminal block instead of plugs and sockets, usually on higher-power UPS units.
- Alarm ContactA relay output on a UPS that changes state on an alarm, such as battery mode, low battery or a fault, to alert an external system.
- Ethernet Port (RJ45)The UPS's Ethernet network port, through which it can be monitored and controlled from any computer on the network via a browser, SNMP or shutdown software.
- IEC C19/C20 ConnectorsPair of connectors rated up to 16 A under IEC 60320, used on higher-power UPS units, rack PDUs and servers or switches with high-consumption power supplies.
- ModbusA communication protocol used for connecting industrial electronic devices, including UPS systems.
- Network Management Card (NMC)An interface card enabling remote monitoring and control of UPS systems via network.