Patch cabinets are network cabinets in which you manage all connections of your network, these are sometimes also sold as server cabinets. Servers are computers or programs that provide services to clients. Servers are provided with customized hardware, such as a power supply, processor or memory. In a server cabinet,...
Server & Network cabinets
Patch cabinets are network cabinets in which you manage all connections of your network, these are sometimes also sold as server cabinets. Servers are computers or programs that provide services to clients. Servers are provided with customized hardware, such as a power supply, processor or memory. In a server cabinet, this server can be neatly mounted, together with the associated hardware. Our patch cabinets are available with space for different units. They are also available in the colors white and black.
What are patch cabinets?
A patch cabinet is a network cabinet in which connections are made between various devices, such as telephone and internet connections. Because the devices in a patch cabinet generally produce little heat, the door is often made of glass. Patch cabinets are an essential part of any modern network infrastructure, designed to organize and protect your cabling and equipment.
These versatile enclosures house patch panels, switches and various network components, ensuring that your connections are tidy, accessible and secure. Whether you are managing a small office network or a large data centre, patch cabinets provide the structure needed to maintain optimum performance and minimise downtime.
How does a patch cabinet work?
In essence, a 19-inch patch cabinet serves as a framework for organizing and connecting incoming and outgoing network cables. It contains various components such as patch panels, switches, and sometimes even routers, depending on the complexity of the network. Cables from various devices such as servers, switches, and routers can be routed into this cabinet, where they are connected to corresponding ports on the patch panel. This allows for easy reconfiguration and maintenance without the need for extensive rewiring.
Benefits of using a patch cabinet
Using a patch cabinet offers several advantages for both small businesses and large enterprises.
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It improves organization by keeping cables neatly arranged and labeled
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It simplifies maintenance and expansions because connections are easily accessible
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A well-designed cabinet improves airflow , keeping network equipment running more efficiently
This not only ensures peace in your network environment, but also extends the lifespan of your equipment.
These are the main applications of a patch cabinet
Patch cabinets are used in a variety of environments, from home networks to data centers. They are ideal for:
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Cable management : all incoming and outgoing cabling is clearly collected.
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Network switches and routers : these are centrally located and connected via patch panels.
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Network component security : thanks to lockable doors and sturdy housing.
For installers and IT administrators, this makes daily work clearer, safer and more future-proof.
How to choose between a 10 inch and a 19 inch patch cabinet
The difference between a 10” and 19” patch cabinet is mainly in the size and compatibility with your equipment.
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10 inch patch cabinets are more compact, ideal for simple networks in small spaces, such as at home or in a small office. They offer space for small switches or modems, but fewer accessories.
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19 inch patch cabinets are the standard in professional IT environments. They offer space for multiple switches, routers, patch panels and other 19” accessories.
So pay attention to the size of your equipment and your future expansion plans when making your choice.
How to properly set up a patch cabinet step by step
A smart setup prevents frustration and makes future maintenance easier. Follow these steps:
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Determine the order of your equipment : Start at the top with lightweight components such as patch panels, place switches in the middle, and heavy equipment at the bottom.
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First, install patch panels : This will give you a clear starting point for your cable management.
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Use different colored cables : Use different colored cables for quick identification.
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Provide ventilation : Leave space between components and use a ventilation unit if necessary.
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Use cable ducts or rings : Prevents tangle and improves airflow.
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Finish with a visual check : Are all components securely attached? Are cables tight but not tense?
This method makes your cupboard tidy, safe and ready for the future.
You need these accessories to complete your patch cabinet
For a well-functioning patch cabinet, the right accessories are indispensable. The most important are:
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Accessory |
Explanation |
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Patch panels |
For a clear connection of network cables |
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Cage nuts |
Required for mounting equipment in the rack |
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Shelves |
For non-rack mountable devices such as modems or smaller routers |
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Ventilation units |
For better air circulation, especially during intensive use |
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Power strips (PDU) |
For safe power distribution within the cabinet |
For home use, a patch panel and shelf are often sufficient. For commercial installations, ventilation, cable management and power supply are essential.
Here's what you need to pay attention to when buying a patch cabinet
When choosing a patch cabinet, there are a number of important points to consider:
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Placement : will the cabinet be mounted on the wall or on the floor?
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Dimensions (U-measurement & depth) : adjust to the size and amount of equipment
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Future growth : allow for additional space for expansion
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Ventilation : especially important with intensive use to prevent overheating
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Security : Lockable doors or side panels protect sensitive equipment
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IP certification : relevant in dusty or humid environments
A well-chosen patch cabinet fits your current situation and offers room to grow.
16U Patch Cabinet
When asked “What are the different types of patch cabinets?” the 16U patch cabinet stands out as an excellent choice for small businesses or home offices. At 16 compute units high, this compact cabinet may seem small, but it packs a punch. It’s ideal for basic networking needs where space is limited.
The 16U patch cabinet offers ample space for small switches, routers and patch panels. It is often used to house just enough equipment without feeling cramped. In addition, its smaller size makes it easy to install and move. If you are starting a new business or project, this size allows you to compartmentalize your network infrastructure, leading to better organization and efficiency.
Don't be fooled by its modest size, though. The 16U patch cabinet is packed with all the essentials, including ventilation designs, locking doors for security, and robust cable management systems.
22U Patch Cabinet
The 22U patch cabinet is a nice middle ground for businesses looking to expand their networking capabilities. By taking into account the larger space requirements, this size offers more versatility, making it an attractive option for growing businesses.
The 22U patch cabinet is suitable for a wider range of equipment and multiple patch panels, which provides extra space for future expansion. You have enough space for larger switches, routers and extra cabling. Thanks to the advanced cable management possibilities and cooling options, everything remains organized and stable.
32U Patch Cabinet
This patch cabinet is perfect for businesses that are expanding rapidly. Whether you are storing servers, routers or specialized equipment, the 32U patch cabinet has the space you need to grow.
The larger design allows the 32U patch cabinet to hold a larger number of network devices, making it ideal for businesses with more complex network structures. The extra height also means more flexibility in your layout.
The cabinet typically comes with additional security options, ventilation panels and reinforced cable routing to maintain performance.
42U Patch cabinet… go big or go home!
Finally, we come to the impressive 42U patch cabinet, a colossus in the world of patch cabinets. It is the ideal choice for enterprises and data centers that require extensive storage and advanced capabilities.
The 42U patch cabinet can accommodate a large number of servers, switches and devices. Thanks to advanced ventilation systems, lockable doors and a solid construction, it is built for maximum reliability. Do you have ambitions for a professional network or data center? Then this is the right size.
Which patch cabinet is suitable for my company?
Choosing the right patch cabinet isn’t just about size; it’s also about compatibility with your equipment and the unique requirements of your business.
Companies often underestimate their growth and run out of space faster than expected. Conversely, a cabinet that is far too large can lead to inefficiency. So think ahead, determine how many devices you need now and in the future, and choose a cabinet that you can continue to use with confidence.
Difference between a patch cabinet and a server cabinet?
The difference between a server cabinet and a patch cabinet is often in the type of door. In a patch cabinet, the door is often made of glass. A server cabinet often has a perforated door. This allows the server to better dissipate its heat in a server cabinet. But in a patch cabinet, the noise is kept to a minimum. Which variant suits your situation best is therefore very personal. Fortunately, at Netwerkkabel.eu we have both patch cabinets and server cabinets in our range. Sometimes both types of cabinets are also referred to as network cabinets. Whatever you call the cabinets, they are all built for the same function: neatly storing servers.