HOW-TO: Neat and tidy cable termination at central server cupboard

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SumnerBoy

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#87141 20-Jul-2011 21:54

Hi guys,

I am close to the end of a new build. I have run all my CAT6 and RG6 from each area/room back to a central cupboard. The walls are now gibbed so there is no turning back!

I have just ordered a Dynamix 19" hinged wall bracket (http://www.cablesdirect.co.nz/www/pdfs/nc34.pdf) with a shelf/lid and a Dynamix 48 port CAT6 patch panel.

This seems like the most cost effective option for terminating all my CAT6 but I am after some tips or suggestions about how to make it as neat and tidy as possible - as I am new to all this!

For example, should I be employing one of those cable management bars? Do these run along the back of the rack/bracket? Or should I simply bundle the CAT6 tails into groups of 8 and tape/cable tie before running to the necessary block in the patch panel?

Just wondering if there are any smart suggestions out there for how to do this neat and tidy. I have about 36 CAT6 cables and will use the remaining patch panel ports for telephone distribution (after a good tip from Cyril).

Also - any good ideas for terminating/handling the RG6 runs? I have about 15 of them from various rooms, sat feeds etc. Am I best to just crimp BNC fittings onto the end and leave them hanging? Or is there an equivalent to the CAT6 patch panel that I can use?

Any help would be great, otherwise I will just dive in myself and will probably end up with a dogs breakfast!

Cheers,
Ben

Zeon

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#495988 20-Jul-2011 22:13

TBH those hinged brackets are really flimsy, I would have gone for one of those 10" or a proper 19" cabinet (may be a bit too big though ??) Myself.

That link you posted shows a 10" mounting unit for COAX (by the looks of it). Haven't seen one for 19" but they may exist.

To answer your question cable management is only worth it if you are changing your ports often otherwise I would go with cable ties.

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SumnerBoy

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#496026 20-Jul-2011 23:16

Thanks Zeon - yeah a full size 19" cabinet is a bit big for my cupboard, and a fair bit more than my budget. To be honest, I didn't even notice those 10" cabinets but with me needing 48 ports it would fill up pretty quick.

I have also just bought a TP-Link 19" rack mountable gigabit switch, with a view to installing in the hinged bracket along with the patch panel.

But thanks for the tip on cable management. Cable ties sound like it will be the way to go.

Will have a hunt around for a 19" F-Connector panel.

cyril7

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#496059 21-Jul-2011 07:50

Cable ties or velcro, which is more easily undone and redone.

Cyril

webwat

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#497227 23-Jul-2011 23:26

Velcro strips are always better than cable ties, easier to adjust them after installed and its not tempting for someone to come along and pull them too tight. The bracket is a sensible option if there's no better way to fit into your cupboard, its quite strong enough and allows you to open up and see the terminations ? but make sure the hinge goes on the side of the bracket you run the cable bundle!

I would say be careful that your switch has space for ventilation too, those brackets aren't really designed for cooling.

Time to find a new industry!

illicit

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#497260 24-Jul-2011 06:26

SumnerBoy: Hi guys,

CAT6, I am after some tips or suggestions about how to make it as neat and tidy as possible

Have a look at the pics here, try searching with "swing cabinet" or "swing rack" in the search also.

SumnerBoy:

Also - any good ideas for terminating/handling the RG6 runs? I have about 15 of them from various rooms, sat feeds etc. Am I best to just crimp BNC fittings onto the end and leave them hanging?

Cheers,
Ben

I don't know where you got the idea of using BNC connectors?

Anyway, I would recommend a multiswitch - checkout digital imports for options.

webwat

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#497577 25-Jul-2011 12:59

No they use F connectors and need a good crimp, not the hex crimp. The coax will eventually connect to a splitter or multiplexer, which can be screwed down, so make sure all the cables are labeled until then.

Time to find a new industry!

SumnerBoy

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#497580 25-Jul-2011 13:07

My mistake - meant to say F connectors - not sure why BNC popped into my head...

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nbroad

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#497996 26-Jul-2011 13:11

Zeon: TBH those hinged brackets are really flimsy,

i've got one and they are fine with the lid/top shelf on.. that seems to make them a lot sturdier
i have a 24 port patch panel and a 3com switch in mine and modem/router, voip ata and WD mybook NAS sitting on the top shelf

SumnerBoy

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#498000 26-Jul-2011 13:20

Nice - that is exactly how I am thinking of setting mine up. You happen to have any pictures of your gear?

nbroad

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#498011 26-Jul-2011 13:35

SumnerBoy: Nice - that is exactly how I am thinking of setting mine up. You happen to have any pictures of your gear?

yep!

I brought the bundle of cat5e out of the hole you can see in the wall and taped it together with insulation tape, then punched down on the panel... the patch panel had little thingies to loop cable ties through which i used to tie it all to the back of the panel... didn't get a photo of that bit.

nbroad

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#498013 26-Jul-2011 13:37

oh and make sure you use grunty screws into wall studs since there will be a bit of weight on it

SumnerBoy

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#498022 26-Jul-2011 13:52

Nice one mate - looks like a very tidy little setup. Fingers crossed mine turns out as good as that!

Cheers.