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RS PRO XLR AV Patch Panel 32 Port Patch Panel, 2 U Rack Height

RS PRO XLR AV Patch Panel 32 Port Patch Panel, 2 U Rack Height

RS Stock No. 028-5092

Brand RS Pro

  • Depth: 105mm
  • Super Section: Networking & WiFi
  • Type: Port Rack Patch Panel

AED 1.350.28

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RS PRO USB AV Patch Panel 16 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS PRO USB AV Patch Panel 16 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS Stock No. 036-0705

Brand RS Pro

  • Connector Type: USB 2.0
  • Super Section: Networking & WiFi
  • Type: Port Rack Patch Panel

AED 1.271.97

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RS PRO USB AV Patch Panel 16 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS PRO USB AV Patch Panel 16 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS Stock No. 036-0707

Brand RS Pro

  • Category: AV Patch Panels
  • Category Link: https://ae.rsdelivers.com/browse/ppe-safety-test-it/computing-peripherals/networking-wifi/av-patch-panels
  • Number Of Ports: 16

AED 1.439.20

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RS PRO RJ Patch Panel

RS PRO RJ Patch Panel

RS Stock No. 055-6635

Brand RS Pro

  • Category: RJ Patch Panels
  • LAN Category: Cat6
  • Rack Height: 1U

AED 589.33

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RS PRO Cat5e 16 Port RJ45 RJ Patch Panel UTP 1 U

RS PRO Cat5e 16 Port RJ45 RJ Patch Panel UTP 1 U

RS Stock No. 214-9769

Brand RS Pro

  • Interface Type: RJ45
  • LAN Category: Cat5e
  • Rack Height: 1U

AED 433.84

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RS PRO Cat6 24 Port RJ45 RJ Patch Panel UTP 1 U Black

RS PRO Cat6 24 Port RJ45 RJ Patch Panel UTP 1 U Black

RS Stock No. 014-3830

Brand RS Pro

  • LAN Category: Cat6
  • Number Of Ports: 24
  • Rack Height: 1U

AED 594.39

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RS PRO Cat6 24 Port RJ45 RJ Patch Panel UTP 1 U Black

RS PRO Cat6 24 Port RJ45 RJ Patch Panel UTP 1 U Black

RS Stock No. 014-3836

Brand RS Pro

  • Category Link: https://ae.rsdelivers.com/browse/ppe-safety-test-it/computing-peripherals/networking-wifi/rj-patch-panels
  • LAN Category: Cat6
  • Number Of Ports: 24

AED 568.94

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RS PRO Cat5e 24 Port RJ45 RJ Patch Panel UTP 1 U Black

RS PRO Cat5e 24 Port RJ45 RJ Patch Panel UTP 1 U Black

RS Stock No. 014-3838

Brand RS Pro

  • LAN Category: Cat5e
  • Number Of Ports: 24
  • Shield Type: UTP

AED 299.69

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RS PRO Cat5e 48 Port RJ45 RJ Patch Panel UTP 2 U Black

RS PRO Cat5e 48 Port RJ45 RJ Patch Panel UTP 2 U Black

RS Stock No. 014-3840

Brand RS Pro

  • LAN Category: Cat5e
  • Number Of Ports: 48
  • Shield Type: UTP

AED 450.30

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RS PRO 24 Port ST, Duplex Fibre Optic Patch Panel, 1 U 44.5 mm

RS PRO 24 Port ST, Duplex Fibre Optic Patch Panel, 1 U 44.5 mm

RS Stock No. 014-3844

Brand RS Pro

  • Category Link: https://ae.rsdelivers.com/browse/ppe-safety-test-it/computing-peripherals/networking-wifi/fibre-optic-patch-panels
  • Height: 44.5mm
  • Width: 203mm

AED 687.69

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RS PRO 16 Port RJ Patch Panel 1 U Black

RS PRO 16 Port RJ Patch Panel 1 U Black

RS Stock No. 791-8510

Brand RS Pro

  • Depth: 15.7mm
  • Rack Height: 1U
  • Width: 482mm

AED 86.68

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RS PRO RSBCPAN1U Series Cat5 24 Port RJ45 Patch Panel 1 U Black

RS PRO RSBCPAN1U Series Cat5 24 Port RJ45 Patch Panel 1 U Black

RS Stock No. 201-0581

Brand RS Pro

  • Interface Type: RJ45
  • Series: RSBCPAN1U
  • Width: 19in

AED 288.68

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RS PRO 24 Port RJ45 RJ Patch Panel STP Black

RS PRO 24 Port RJ45 RJ Patch Panel STP Black

RS Stock No. 014-3831

Brand RS Pro

  • Category Link: https://ae.rsdelivers.com/browse/ppe-safety-test-it/computing-peripherals/networking-wifi/rj-patch-panels
  • Section: Computing & Peripherals
  • Shield Type: STP

AED 592.65

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RS PRO Cat5 Series Cat5e 48 Port RJ45 RJ Patch Panel UTP 2 U Black

RS PRO Cat5 Series Cat5e 48 Port RJ45 RJ Patch Panel UTP 2 U Black

RS Stock No. 055-6691

Brand RS Pro

  • Height: 44.45mm
  • Number Of Ports: 48
  • Rack Height: 2U

AED 409.18

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RS PRO Audio, Digital, Optical, Video 16 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS PRO Audio, Digital, Optical, Video 16 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS Stock No. 175-0152

Brand RS Pro

  • Category: Audio & Video Patch Panels
  • Number Of Ports: 16
  • Rack Height: 1U

AED 1.098.90

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RS PRO BNC Loaded Rack 16 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS PRO BNC Loaded Rack 16 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS Stock No. 196-0769

Brand RS Pro

  • Category: AV Patch Panels
  • Rack Height: 1U
  • Type: Loaded Rack

AED 902.73

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RS PRO BNC Loaded Rack 16 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS PRO BNC Loaded Rack 16 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS Stock No. 252-2981

Brand RS Pro

  • Category: AV Patch Panels
  • Connector Type: BNC
  • Number Of Ports: 16

AED 1.671.82

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RS PRO BNC Loaded Rack 20 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS PRO BNC Loaded Rack 20 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS Stock No. 252-2985

Brand RS Pro

  • Category: AV Patch Panels
  • Number Of Ports: 20
  • Type: Loaded Rack

AED 2.210.54

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RS PRO Audio, Video Audio/Video 16 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS PRO Audio, Video Audio/Video 16 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS Stock No. 143-8918

Brand RS Pro

  • Category: Audio & Video Patch Panels
  • Number Of Ports: 16
  • Type: Audio, Video

AED 362.50

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RS PRO Audio, Video Audio/Video 16 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS PRO Audio, Video Audio/Video 16 Port Patch Panel, 1 U Rack Height

RS Stock No. 143-8919

Brand RS Pro

  • Category: Audio & Video Patch Panels
  • Connector Type: XLR
  • Number Of Ports: 16

AED 401.20

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RS PRO 24 Port ST Fibre Optic Patch Panel With 24 Ports Populated, 1 U 44 mm

RS PRO 24 Port ST Fibre Optic Patch Panel With 24 Ports Populated, 1 U 44 mm

RS Stock No. 125-8404

Brand RS Pro

  • Dimensions: 482 x 205 x 44.4mm
  • Number of Populated Ports: 24
  • Number Of Ports: 24

AED 528.16

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RS PRO 24 Port SC Fibre Optic Patch Panel, 1 U 44 mm

RS PRO 24 Port SC Fibre Optic Patch Panel, 1 U 44 mm

RS Stock No. 014-3842

Brand RS Pro

  • Panel Type: Patch Panel
  • Simplex/Duplex: Duplex
  • Super Section: Networking & WiFi

AED 890.49

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RS PRO 24 Port SC, Simplex Fibre Optic Patch Panel With 24 Ports Populated, 1 U 44 mm

RS PRO 24 Port SC, Simplex Fibre Optic Patch Panel With 24 Ports Populated, 1 U 44 mm

RS Stock No. 536-7780

Brand RS Pro

  • Number of Ports: 24
  • Panel Type: Sliding
  • Width: 483 mm

AED 543.66

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RS PRO 24 Port ST, Simplex Fibre Optic Patch Panel With 24 Ports Populated, 1 U 44 mm

RS PRO 24 Port ST, Simplex Fibre Optic Patch Panel With 24 Ports Populated, 1 U 44 mm

RS Stock No. 536-7796

Brand RS Pro

  • Height: 44mm
  • Number of Ports: 24
  • Rack Height: 1U

AED 584.44

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...

What is a patch panel and what is it used for?

A patch panel is a centralized termination point typically mounted in a 19" equipment rack or wall enclosure that brings together network cabling for easy management. In copper networks it terminates RJ45 cables from workstations, switches, and edge devices onto a backplane of punched-down or modular keystone jacks, while the front offers RJ45 ports or modular ports for patch cords. In fiber applications it collects fiber cables terminated with LC, SC, or ST connectors and routes them toward distribution equipment. The main purpose is to organize, protect, and streamline changes to a LAN or data-center cabling system, reducing wear on active devices and simplifying labeling, testing, and future upgrades. This is the backbone of structured cabling: Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, or Cat7 copper patch panels for Ethernet LANs, plus fiber patch panels for high-bandwidth links, all inside a neat, scalable chassis alongside racks, cable management bars, and labeling guides.

What are the different types of patch panels available?

Patch panels come in several common formats to suit different networks and spaces:
  • Copper patch panels for Ethernet—Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, or Cat7 options, available in 24-port, 48-port, and modular port configurations. They can be shielded (STP) or unshielded (UTP) and may offer front-facing RJ45 jacks or rear IDC/punch-down terminations.
  • RJ45 modular patch panels with front-panel jacks you can populate with keystone jacks or pre-terminated stacks, ideal for quick changes and easy labeling.
  • Fiber patch panels for backbone links—typically 1U or 2U, with LC/SC adapters, designed for single-mode or multimode fiber, and available in trunk, breakout, or wall-mount variants.
  • Wall-mount patch panels for small offices or telecommunications closets where a full rack isn’t practical.
  • Hybrid or modular patch panels that mix copper ports and fiber adapters in the same chassis, offering flexible growth.
When choosing, consider port count, cable type, space constraints, rack compatibility, and whether you need PoE compatibility or enhanced shielding for industrial environments.

How do I choose the right patch panel for my network?

Selecting the right patch panel depends on current needs and future growth. Consider these factors:
  • Cabling type and category: For Ethernet LANs, decide between Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, or higher. For fiber, determine single-mode vs multimode and connector type (LC, SC, etc.).
  • Port count and density: Common sizes are 24-port and 48-port copper panels; larger data centers may use 96-port or modular solutions. Plan for headroom to avoid repatching soon.
  • Rack compatibility: Ensure 19" rack mounting, height in U, and proper depth for future patch cords and cable managers.
  • Shielding and environment: Choose shielded panels for areas with EMI or when using shielded cables; consider IP ratings or front-rear access in harsh environments.
  • Power and PoE needs: If you require PoE delivery through the network, verify PoE compatibility or ensure the patch panel’s design works in concert with PoE-capable switches and power budgeting.
  • Management features: Labeling fields, color coding, and integrated cable management bars help keep cables neat and minimize trouble during changes.
A well-chosen patch panel simplifies future migrations, reduces downtime during rerouting, and protects the integrity of high-speed links in data centers, server rooms, and office networks alike.

How do I install a copper patch panel in a rack?

Installation is straightforward but benefits from planning and cleanliness:
  • Plan the cable routes from all workstations, switches, and patch cables to the patch panel, labeling days and colors for quick identification.
  • Mount the patch panel in a 19" rack or wall enclosure, aligning it with other equipment and ensuring stability.
  • Route backbone cables neatly using horizontal and vertical cable managers; maintain minimum bend radii as specified by the cable category (typically 1–4 times the cable diameter).
  • Terminate copper cables using the panel’s supported method—IDC punched-down for many back-terminated panels or RJ45 jacks for front-terminated modular panels. Use the correct tool and follow the color code (e.g., T568A or T568B) to avoid cross-wiring mistakes.
  • Label each port and maintain a mapping document to speed future changes.
  • Test the completed links with a certified LAN cable tester to confirm proper continuity, correct pairing, and data transmission quality.
After testing, keep cables tidy with ties and a cable management bar to reduce stress on connectors and simplify future re-patching.

Do patch panels support PoE, and how is power delivered?

Patch panels themselves are passive devices and do not generate power. PoE (Power over Ethernet) is delivered by capable PoE-enabled switches or midspan injectors and is carried through the same Ethernet cables that terminate at the patch panel. When selecting a patch panel for PoE environments, look for:
  • Patch panels rated to carry the intended PoE power without overheating, typically labeled PoE or PoE+ compatibility.
  • Shielding and cable grade (Cat5e or higher) to maintain power delivery within safe temperature ranges and to support higher PoE standards like PoE++, if needed.
  • Proper cooling and space in the rack to prevent heat buildup in dense port configurations.
In practice, you’ll terminate all data lines onto the patch panel, while the PoE power comes from the switch, with the patch panel acting as the neat termination point. This arrangement protects devices and makes cable management easier while enabling scalable power delivery to IP phones, wireless access points, security cameras, and other PoE devices.

What are the best practices for labeling and organizing cables on a patch panel?

Clear labeling and disciplined organization speed up maintenance and minimize downtime. Best practices include:
  • Use a consistent labeling scheme for every port, such as floor-room-device-port or fixed color codes per network segment.
  • Color-code copper and fiber cables by function (blue for data, green for management, yellow for fiber, etc.).
  • Install a labeling guide or placard on the patch panel with port numbers and descriptive names.
  • Employ trunk and patch cables of the same length or color to avoid tangled runs.
  • Keep patch cords short and use cable management bars to route them cleanly to switches and servers.
Regular audits and updates to the labeling database help keep the system scalable as your network grows.

What should I consider when choosing a fiber patch panel?

Fiber patch panels are chosen based on connector type, fiber type, and port density:
  • LC adapters with single-mode or multimode fiber; SC or ST connectors are alternatives in older deployments.
  • Port count and arrangement: 12, 24, 48 ports or modular 10G/40G configurations for backbone links.
  • Cable routing and management: tray depth, cable management rings, splice trays, and compatibility with existing fiber adapters.
  • Environmental considerations: dust protection, enclosure sealing, and thermal management in data centers.
Fiber patch panels support high-bandwidth links and can simplify trunking between distribution frames, data centers, and telecom rooms while keeping fiber connections clean and easy to service.

What are common mistakes to avoid with patch panels?

Common pitfalls include:
  • Overtightening or mislabeling cables, leading to connector damage or confusion during maintenance.
  • Crossing wires or tangled bundles that impede airflow and complicate testing.
  • Using mismatched categories or incompatible connectors on copper runs, causing signal loss or crosstalk.
  • Skipping labeling or documentation, which slows troubleshooting and future upgrades.
  • Poor bend radius or strained cables, risking degraded performance and reliability issues.
Adopting a disciplined labeling scheme, proper cable management, and regular audits helps ensure long-term network reliability.