The intentional management of cables to include proper selection, sizing, labeling and dressing of cables will impact network performance. Copper and fiber cables have inherent mechanical properties that are reduced by sharp turns, bends and twists. Cable management, the creation of intentional pathways and supports for cables, helps maintain the performance of structured cabling systems. 

Cable management systems include the overhead trays or ladder used to distribute cabling, the cable managers used to organize patch cords and jumper cables and the racks used to support structured cabling system components and network switches. 

As a general guideline, when planning, be sure that you have an intentional pathway between connections on patch racks and for premise cables from rack to outlet. When operating, develop the discipline of removing cables when disconnected and of dressing and documenting cables when making new connections to speed troubleshooting and deployment tasks.  

Why Choose CPI? 

Chatsworth Products (CPI) offers a complete solution that is designed to work as a complete system, integrating racks, cable management and pathway solutions. Although there is a universal standard for rack-mount systems that describes how equipment will mount to racks, there is not a universal standard for how cable management or pathway systems should attach to, and align with, racks. This easy integration and alignment is critical to optimizing cable management solutions.  

Additionally, CPI seeks to develop mechanisms that support cabling best practices. For example, Adjustable Cable Runway, which is a type of ladder rack, allows cross members (the ladder rungs) to be easily moved in the field if they interfere in the alignment of radius drops and vertical pathways.

Similarly, Motive® Vertical Cable Management provides an internal support for premise cables that allows cable bundles to be spaced and secured within the pathway to accommodate higher power enhanced Power over Ethernet (PoE) applications over copper. It also allows quick, tool-less adjustment of cable spools to match cable slack. The basic methods are not new, but the ease of use is greatly improved allowing users to adjust the structure as the cabling changes.

Finally, CPI recognizes that network designs are typically formalized in construction documents. So, we offer the CAD tools and specifications for easy creation of drawings and project manuals. And our channel partners stock these products to make them easy to find and readily available for projects.  

Contact CPI today and let one of our Technical Support Specialist assist you.