Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
FIGURE 7.12
A basic accessory for wire management is the plastic standoff. (Courtesy of The Siemon
Company.)
Metal distribution rings are often used on wooden backboards to secure station
cables and cross-connects as they are run across the board. Cables may be quickly laid
in, sorted, wrapped, and secured to the rings. The rings are available in several sizes,
although the 2-, 4-, and 6-in widths are the most common. The rings mount with two
screws at either side. Some installers split the rings in two with a tubing cutter to pro-
vide an open half-ring for cross-connect wiring. This method allows more wires to be
controlled than with the plastic standoffs and avoids the problem of threading the
jumper wires through each closed ring as the wires are run from point to point.
The half-ring idea probably inspired a version of split plastic ring, also called
a wire hanger or bracket, shown in Fig. 7.13. This bracket has a flat, solid back with
side loops that almost meet at the top to form a ring. The small opening at the top
allows a cable to be placed directly into the ring without threading. These brackets
work well with stranded wire cable or cross-connect wire, but the solid, plenum-
style wire tends to work out of the bracket if not secured with a wrap.
Wire Management Panels
Wire management panels are available that mount horizontally across a relay rack
or cabinet to offer orderly routing for patch cords and equipment cords. These pan-
