Patch Panel Tools

 

Fotolia.com">A rack-mounted patch panelA patch panel is a receptacle box that houses network cable connections. The panel is usually rack-mounted. Individual device cables plug into the front of the panel; a single thick cable comes out the back of the panel. The panel collects the signals from multiple circuits on the front and passes those signals down the larger cable in the back. When building a cable network, technicians use a set of specialized tools not typically found in an electrician's toolkit.Cable DresserA cable dresser, also known as a cable comb, is used to bundle cables in a way that prevents them from becoming tangled. The dresser consists of two semi-circular pieces of thick, grooved plastic that snap together to form a band with the cables running through the center. Cable dressers come in sizes suitable for combing up to 12, 24 or 48 cables.Punch ToolA punch tool is a small hand tool that is used to cross-connect jumpers and terminate cable runs. Most are spring-loaded impact devices that terminate and trim at the same time. A punch tool is sometimes called a "krone tool," named after one of the original manufacturers.Butt SetA butt set is used to test and monitor network lines during installation, repair and troubleshooting. Originally used by telephone linemen, butt sets have been adapted for computer networks and converged voice and data networks. Butt sets are also known as a lineman's handset. In addition to testing and monitoring functions, butt sets have integrated receivers, transmitters and dialing functions. This tool allows a repair technician to tap into phone lines and use them as a normal subscriber does.CrimperA crimper is a pliers-like tool used to install crimps, a type of solder-free, waterproof connector used to terminate wire strands. Crimp pliers and dies are color-coded, similar to Philips and Robertson screwdrivers. There are many different types of crimps including blade, ring and butt, and many different types of cable. This accounts for the need for specialized crimpers. References DatacomTools.com: Home Page