Patent attributes
A patch panel and power distribution system is provided. The system generally includes a chassis, a connector assembly, a power supply and a controller. The connector assembly operates to connect first and second network transmission media. The power supply is adapted to supply output power to remotely located devices. The connector assembly and the power supply are each supported (at least in part) by the chassis, which is generally mounted with respect to a rack. The disclosed patch panel and power distribution system obviates the need to separately mount/locate a power supply and facilitates access to/maintenance of the overall system. Accessory features and functionalities are associated with the disclosed patch panel and power distribution system, e.g., common mode chokes for introduction of DC power to data communication lines and light emitting diodes (LEDs) for indicating the power-related status of one or more ports associated with the patch panel. The disclosed patch panel and power distribution system is advantageously compliant with IEEE 802.3af and TIA/EIA 568B.1-6 standards.
