Whether you have several servers or a rack full of devices, coming up with an organized cabling system is essential for your business. Not only does it allow you to connect devices without affecting other equipment, a sound cabling system also makes it easy to identify and repair faulty connections. Read on for some actionable tips on how to achieve an effective management system for data cabling in your IT cabinets.

Group your equipment

Start by classifying your devices based on their physical characteristics. You can broadly divide them into full-length gear, short-length devices, and switchgear. Place the similarly sized devices together, and remember to leave space on the top and bottom racks for future additions. This strategy not only creates a clean space, but it also makes it easy to identify and access the devices.

Color-code the cables

Some cabling systems are composed of multiple switches and network connections, and this means that there will be various cables running from the rack to equipment and servers. The best way to deal with such a system is by color-coding the cables so that you can know which connections go where. Color-coding also makes it easy to reconnect servers as you can identify the pattern that the other servers are using. If you don't have multiple switches, use colors to differentiate the internet connections from the phone or internal networks for easy identification.

Customize your cables

Cables come in varying lengths, some of which are long enough to cover various environments. If you have excessively long cables but only require two or three feet, you will need space to store the extra slack. Long cables can eat into your storage space and create a disorganized rack. To avoid this, ask your facilitator to provide custom-length cables. You can have an extra foot or two to accommodate future changes, but do not go for extra-long cables that will lead to space wastage.

Organize power strips on one side

Power strips allow you to plug in several devices even when there are limited outlets. However, if they aren't properly managed, they can create a disorganized rack and make it hard for you to access, connect or disconnect equipment. Place your power strips on one side of the cabinet, preferably the one where the power supplies are on for most of your gear. Leave the rest of the cables on the other end of the rack. This will make it easy for you to access, use, and manage the cabling and power strips.

An organized data cabling rack reduces time wastage when handling cabling, makes it easy to maintain and service equipment and reduces downtime. Call a professional if you need more insight on how to come up with a practical system for your data cabling racks.

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