Patch cables are critical to the operation of electronic and optical equipment, and can allow system performance to operate at the intended high speeds and bandwidth.

A patch cable connects two electronic or optical devices to each other for signal routing. This is usually for network applications, to “patch” a signal from one hub, switch, or router to another hub, switch, or router. Use patch cables to carry a variety of signals, such as:

  • telephone
  • audio
  • video
  • digital signals 

Routers or patch panels are mounted hardware assemblies with ports to connect and manage incoming and outgoing cables in a Local Area Network (LAN).  To arrange circuits in a patch panel, one can plug or unplug the appropriate patch cords.

Patch cables can be made from a variety of cable types: coaxial, UTP, STP, and fiber patch cable types. Further, pig tails refer to a cable assembly that has been terminated only at one end with exposed bare wires. This allows the installer to customize the termination in the field for a direct and permanent connection.

COPPER PATCH CABLES

Patch cables are generally shorter cable assemblies used to connect equipment in computer bays or racks, or to connect peripheral devices to the computer. Typically used over short distances, they generally do not exceed two meters in length. Some applications require longer cables for looping, to allow for future movement, or to eliminate slack and potential damage or kinking. Although, some copper patch cables may be only a few inches long.

LANs generally use Category 6A, 6, 5e or 5 patch cables.  While network speeds can be very fast, a patch cable can be a source of obstruction and degradation of the signal. So, selection of the appropriate patch cable for the intended network application and environment is very important. 

FIBER OPTIC PATCH CORDS

A fiber optic patch cord, or “jumper cable,” is a cable assembly with a fiber optic cable terminated at each end. The pre-terminated connectors allow it to be conveniently connected to an optical switch, CATV, or other telecommunications equipment. It connects an optical transmitter, receiver, and terminal box. These devices can use Single Mode or Multimode fiber patch cable types and a variety of fiber optic connectors.

A fiber optic patch cord is constructed from a core with a high refractive index, surrounded by a coating with a low refractive index, that is strengthened by aramid yarns and surrounded by a protective jacket. Transparency of the core permits transmission of optic signals with little loss over great distances. The coating’s low refractive index reflects light back into the core, minimizing signal loss.