Connecting network cables to a wire-punch patch panel may seem like a tricky job, but once you get the basics down, it's easy. This guide can help you.
Use tools and materials
(1) Network cable
(2) Distribution frame
(3) Wiring tool
(4) Network cable stripper
(5) Screwdriver
Step 1: Prepare the network cable
The first is to strip the wires, you need to prepare the network cables to be connected to the patch panel. To do this, you can use a cable stripper to remove the outer sheath of the network cable. If you don't have a cable stripper, you can also do it with a sharp knife, but be careful as this method can cause yourself injury and damage to the internal copper cables.
Ideally, you should strip about 1" (25mm) of the outer jacket, this will ensure that it is fully attached to the patch panel without exposing too much network cable and causing damage. After removing the jacket, you will find 4 twisted pairs for a total of 8 cores. In order to successfully route the network cable into the patch panel, you need to gently separate the twisted pair so that the 8 cores can be used individually.
Step 2: Prepare the Patch Panel
Patch panels In most cases, a complete patch panel consists of multiple panels. Take a screwdriver, unscrew the part of the panel you want to use, and set the rest aside. When doing so, pay attention to the label on the inside of the panel, which has a color code printed on it. The next step will explain this.
Step 3: Put the network cable into the patch panel
Patch Panel In order to properly connect the network cables to the patch panel, you need to take a close look at the color code attached to the label on the panel, let's take a closer look.
First, you'll notice that there are actually 2 types of wire assignments, usually labeled A and B. Typically, most installations will use Type B, but make sure to check which type of wire strike is right for your specific application.
Once you have selected your cable type, you will see that each core of the network cable has its own color code with 4 solid and 4 striped colors. Just match the solid-colored cores to the solid-colored sockets and do the same for the striped-colored cores. Inserting the cores into the sockets requires only a gentle push of them. Once all the wires have been inserted correctly, the actual wiring can begin.
Step 4: Wire
In order to properly attach the wire cores into the patch panel, you will need to use the "Wire Punch Tool". The tool itself is pretty simple, the pointed side is the side where the end of the wire will be trimmed to keep a clean cut.
First place the tool on the core to be wired and press down with the required force. This pushes the core firmly into place and trims the ends at the same time. Continue doing this for all remaining cores. You may also notice that occasionally some wire ends remain, which can usually be gently removed by hand.
