Cable Management in Large Offices

Overview of Cable Connections

• User Desks: Direct cable connections run under floors or over ceilings to a central closet.
• Patch Panel: Located in the closet, where desk wires are punched down (e.g., using a 110 block).
• RJ45 Connectors: On patch panel for connecting to switches.

Patch Panel Functionality

• Fixed Desk to Patch Panel Wiring: Once installed, wires from desks to patch panel remain unchanged.
• Switching Connections: Changes are made by unplugging and plugging connectors on the patch panel side.
• Patch Panel Types: Can have RJ45 connectors and/or punch down connections on both sides.

Practical Patch Panel Example

• Setup: Patch panel at the bottom, switch on top, with patch cable connecting them.
• Function: Extends user desk connection to the switch without altering desk-to-patch panel wiring.

Fiber Connections

• Use Cases: Not typically used from desks due to expense; common between floors/buildings.
• Fiber Distribution Panel: Installed on both ends of the fiber run.
  • Loops and Slack: Prevents tight bends and provides extra fiber for adjustments.

Types of Punch Down Blocks

66 Block

• Usage: Early type for analog voice communication.
• Connection Method: Wires manually punched down using a punch down tool.

110 Block

• Advancement: Supports digital and high-speed Ethernet (Category 5 and 6 cables).
• Connection Style: Similar to 66 block but with different connector types.

Krone Block (Europe)

• Manufacturer: Made by Krone.
• Usage: Analog and digital communication.
• Function: Similar to 66 and 110 blocks.

BIX Block (Building Industry Cross Connect)

• Modern Standards: Supports Category 6 and better connections for high-speed Ethernet.
• Function: Similar to other punch down blocks with copper wire connection.